In Graves ophthalmopathy, inflammation and swelling can affect muscles and other tissues around the eyes.
This can cause your eyeballs to bulge, which is one of the most recognizable symptoms.
This symptom is also calledexophthalmos, orproptosis.
Illustration by Cindy Chung, Verywell
Inflammation causes swelling and scarring.
The cornea may be damaged by the bulging forward of the eyes.
Recap
Bulging eyes are the main symptom of thyroid eye disease.
You may also feel irritation and see double vision.
Symptoms are because of the immune system attacking muscles and other tissues in the eye.
They will also examine the thyroid gland to see if it is enlarged.
Medications
To minimizeeye irritation, your ophthalmologist may suggest using artificial tears several times daily.
Ointments may be applied at night to prevent the eyes from drying out.
Steroids, such as prednisone, may be given to reduce swelling behind the eyes.
Radiation
Orbital radiotherapy, or radiation, may be considered to treat inflammation around the eyes.
You receive the treatment in an outpatient setting for up to 12 visits.
Studies have shown that orbital radiotherapy and steroids are more effective than steroids alone.
Surgery
If your eyes are bulging, a surgeon may perform orbital decompression surgery.
This can relieve the pressure around your eyes, which is important for maintaining pressure in your eyes.
High eye pressure can raise the risk of developingglaucoma.
Eye muscle surgerymay be performed if needed.
Stop Smoking
If you smoke, quitting can help your treatment to be more effective.
A review of research found that smokers had worse treatment outcomes for Graves ophthalmopathy than nonsmokers.
Smokers were also more likely than nonsmokers to develop thyroid eye disease.
It can cause your eyes to bulge.
You may also have double vision and eye irritation.
Your ophthalmologist will suggest treatment to reduce symptoms and prevent further complications.
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