Daily Eye Care Routines and Tips to Help Manage Thyroid Eye Disease

Daily Eye Care Routines and Tips to Help Manage Thyroid Eye Disease

Picture of Raymond Douglas, MD PHD

Raymond Douglas, MD PHD

Reconstructive & Aesthetic Oculoplastic Specialist

A consistent daily eye care routine can make all the difference in managing thyroid eye disease (TED). TED is an autoimmune condition that affects the tissues around the eyes and often leads to symptoms such as dryness, redness, swelling, and light sensitivity. 

While no routine can cure TED, daily practices can help alleviate discomfort, reduce inflammation, and support overall eye health. Let’s explore some simple yet effective tips for better management of thyroid eye disease.

Start with Clean Hands

The foundation of any eye care routine is hygiene. Before touching your face or eyes, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to prevent introducing bacteria or irritants. TED symptoms can make your eyes more vulnerable to infections, so this small step is crucial. 

Gentle Cleansing of Eyelids

TED often causes puffiness and redness around the eyes, making gentle cleansing essential. Use a clean, soft cloth and warm water to wipe away any crusts or debris from your eyelids gently. Alternatively, you can use over-the-counter eyelid cleansers designed for sensitive eyes. This helps reduce irritation and keeps the area clean and comfortable. 

For those who wear makeup, ensure you use hypoallergenic and fragrance-free products, and remove all traces of makeup before bed to prevent further irritation. This cleansing routine plays a vital role in effectively managing thyroid eye disease.

Use Lubricating Eye Drops

One of the most common TED symptoms is dry eyes. Artificial tears or lubricating eye drops can help maintain moisture and reduce irritation. Look for preservative-free options to avoid further eye irritation. Use the drops as directed by your healthcare provider or whenever your eyes feel dry or gritty. 

Apply Cold Compresses

Swelling and puffiness are hallmark symptoms of TED. Apply a cold compress to your eyes for 10–15 minutes to soothe inflammation. This can help reduce swelling and provide relief from discomfort. Use a clean, soft cloth and avoid pressing too hard on the eyes. For added comfort, consider using a gel eye mask that can be cooled in the refrigerator. 

Protect Your Eyes from Light and Irritants

Many people with TED experience light sensitivity. Wearing sunglasses with UV protection can help shield your eyes from bright sunlight, wind, and other environmental irritants. For indoor light sensitivity, consider wearing blue-light-blocking glasses, which can reduce strain from screens and artificial lighting. 

Additionally, avoid exposure to smoke, dust, and strong chemicals, as these can further irritate your eyes. Protecting your eyes from irritants is a critical aspect of managing thyroid eye disease.

Stay Hydrated

Dry eyes and dehydration go hand in hand. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps keep your body and eyes hydrated. Aim for at least eight glasses of water daily, and avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol, which can contribute to dehydration. Incorporating hydrating foods into your diet can also help maintain proper hydration levels. 

Incorporate a Balanced Diet

A diet of anti-inflammatory foods can support your overall eye health and help manage TED symptoms. Incorporate fresh vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats like those found in nuts, seeds, and avocados. Omega-3 fatty acids, in particular, are known to reduce inflammation and support eye health.

Limit your intake of processed foods, refined sugars, and trans fats, as these can exacerbate inflammation and worsen TED symptoms. A balanced diet is a cornerstone of the management of thyroid eye disease.

Practice Stress Management

Stress can exacerbate TED symptoms by triggering inflammation and immune system flare-ups. Incorporate stress-reducing practices like meditation, deep breathing, or gentle yoga into your daily routine. Prioritizing mental health can have a direct positive impact on your physical well-being. 

Avoid Smoking

If you smoke, quitting is one of the most impactful changes you can make. Smoking worsens inflammation, reduces the effectiveness of treatments like Tepezza, and accelerates the progression of TED. Seek support from your healthcare provider or a smoking cessation program if needed. 

The benefits of quitting smoking extend beyond TED management, improving your overall health and reducing the risk of other severe conditions. Smoking cessation is vital for the successful management of thyroid eye disease.

Get Enough Sleep

Sleep is vital for your body to repair itself. TED can cause discomfort that interferes with rest, but creating a sleep-friendly environment—such as using blackout curtains or a sleep mask—can help. Elevate your head with an extra pillow to reduce overnight swelling around the eyes. 

Incorporate Warm Compresses for Meibomian Gland Health

In addition to cold compresses, warm compresses can be beneficial for maintaining healthy meibomian glands, which produce the oily layer of your tear film. Dysfunction in these glands can contribute to dry eye symptoms. 

Use a warm, damp cloth or a heated eye mask and place it over your closed eyes for 5–10 minutes. This can help unclog the glands and improve tear quality, providing additional relief from dryness. Warm compresses can enhance your overall approach to managing thyroid eye disease.

Work Closely with Your Thyroid Eye Disease Doctor

No daily routine is complete without regular check-ins with your doctor. Your eye doctor can recommend personalized strategies for managing your symptoms and adjust your treatment plan. From lubricating drops to advanced treatments, having a medical professional guide your care ensures the best outcomes.

They may also recommend specialized care to treat your TED or Graves, such as seeing an ophthalmologist or oculoplastic surgeon to address more severe TED problems, such as losing your vision. Collaborating with your healthcare provider is key to managing thyroid eye disease.

Stay Informed About Support and Treatment Advances

TED and Graves research and treatment options are continually evolving. Staying informed about new medications, therapies, and clinical trials can help you and your healthcare provider make the best decisions for your care. Joining support groups or online communities for people with TED can also provide valuable insights and encouragement from others managing the condition.

By incorporating these daily practices, you’ll be better equipped to manage the symptoms of TED and protect your eye health over the long term. Small, consistent steps can lead to significant improvements, empowering you to take control of your TED journey and enhance your overall quality of life. 

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