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Warning Signs of Thyroid Eye Disease

Your thyroid gland produces hormones that control many processes in your body. In cases of thyroid disease, an autoimmune response causes your immune system to attack your thyroid cells. With thyroid eye disease, also known as Graves’ eye disease, the immune system also attacks cells in the eyes, causing bulging and other symptoms and eventual vision problems.

Orbital and oculoplastic surgeon Dr. Raymond Douglas provides diagnosis and care to new and existing patients from his state-of-the art offices in Beverly Hills, California. If you have thyroid eye disease, Dr. Douglas can diagnose your condition, and recommend the right treatment plan to restore the appearance and function of your eyes.

What causes thyroid eye disease?

The most common reason people develop thyroid eye disease is an overactive thyroid caused by Graves’ disease. If you have this condition, your antibodies attack your thyroid gland, resulting in excessive activity in your thyroid.

For up to half of all patients with Graves’ disease, eye problems becomes an issue. The good news is that thyroid eye disease is typically treatable with professional diagnosis and care.

Thyroid eye disease can be a complication for people with already-diagnosed thyroid problems, or it might be the first issue that causes you to seek medical evaluation. These telltale signs and symptoms signal that thyroid eye disease could be a concern for your eyes.

Signs and symptoms of thyroid eye disease

Thyroid eye disease can cause pressure to build up around your eyes and cause them to bulge. The bulging can be unsightly, and you may wish to pursue corrective treatment to restore the appearance of your eyes and reduce pressure in your eye sockets.

Other symptoms of thyroid eye disease can include unusually dry or watery eyes due to inflamed lacrimal glands, double vision, and a physical difficulty in closing your eyes. The muscles that control the movements of your eyes could be affected by swelling. You could also have redness and irritation, along with a gritty feeling in your eyes.

Effective treatment options for thyroid eye disease

If you’re concerned about bulging eyes or other common symptoms of thyroid eye disease, get in touch with us for an evaluation and customized treatment plan. You may benefit from eye lubrication, anti-inflammatory medications. If bulging is severe, you may benefit from surgical orbital decompression to relieve pressure in your eye sockets.

The active stage of thyroid eye disease lasts from 1-3 years, so you may need treatment to address your symptoms before your condition stabilizes enough for corrective surgery. With the expertise and experience Dr. Douglas offers, you can protect your vision and address any aesthetic concerns related to your thyroid eye disease.

Schedule an appointment to speak with Dr. Douglas about your suspicious eye-related symptoms today. You can book online, or call now to make your appointment.