ThThyroid Eye Disease: Symptoms & Treatment

Common symptoms of thyroid eye disease include a gritty or dry feeling in the eyes, pain, redness, swelling of the eyelids, bulging eyes, double vision or misaligned eyes. Risk factors include thyroid dysfunction (especially Graves’ disease), smoking, middle age and female sex, a family history of thyroid disorders and treatment with radioactive iodine. Prompt evaluation by an ophthalmologist and endocrinologist is important to prevent vision loss.

Thyroid eye disease (also called Graves ophthalmopathy) is an autoimmune condition linked to an overactive thyroid. The immune system mistakenly attacks the tissues around your eyes, causing inflammation and swelling. This leads to bulging eyes, a gritty or dry sensation, redness, pain and sometimes double vision. Early diagnosis and treatment by an eye specialist and endocrinologist can help prevent vision loss.

Thyroid eye disease is diagnosed through a comprehensive eye examination. Your ophthalmologist will measure eye pressure, look for redness and swelling, and evaluate how much the eyes protrude. Blood tests are used to assess thyroid hormone levels. Imaging such as CT or MRI scans can show inflammation and compression of muscles and tissues behind the eye. Regular monitoring is essential to track vision and optic nerve health and to coordinate care with your endocrinologist.

Treatment for thyroid eye disease aims to reduce inflammation and protect vision. Mild symptoms are managed with lubricating eye drops or gels and by sleeping with the head elevated. For moderate or severe disease, doctors may prescribe corticosteroids or newer biologic medications like teprotumumab to calm the immune response. Radiation therapy or surgeries such as orbital decompression and eye muscle surgery may be needed to relieve pressure, reduce bulging or correct double vision. Smoking cessation and careful control of thyroid hormone levels are essential parts of treatment.

Healthy habits can help relieve thyroid eye symptoms and support eye health. Quit smoking and take prescribed antithyroid medications to keep hormone levels stable. Sleep with your head elevated to reduce swelling and wear sunglasses to protect your eyes. Use lubricating eye drops and a humidifier, stay hydrated, and eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and omega‑3 fats. Work with your doctor to control blood pressure and cholesterol, and schedule regular eye exams to monitor changes.

At Mainland Eye, we personalize thyroid eye disease care. Dr. Pastore will evaluate your eyes and thyroid status, coordinate with your endocrinologist, discuss treatment options, and help you decide when medication or surgery is necessary. We monitor your progress with regular follow‑up visits and provide compassionate support at our Somers Point and Cape May Court House locations. Contact us to schedule an appointment.