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What are Thyroid Gland Disorders?
The thyroid gland, located in the neck,
produces thyroid hormone which helps regulate our metabolism. It may
produce either too much thyroid hormone (hyperthyroidism) or too
little (hypothyroidism). Imbalance in either direction can cause eye
and vision problems.
Symptoms of hyperthyroidism include
fatigue, fast heartbeat, weight loss, heat intolerance, fine hair and
diarrhea. Hypothyroidism may also cause fatigue but with slow
heartbeat, constipation and weight gain.
What are they Symptoms of Thyroid-related
eye problems?
A “staring” appearance and dry eyes are
often the first symptoms. Early signs include swelling of the eyelids
and tissues around the eyes. Swelling of the normal fatty tissue
surrounding the eye can push the eye forward creating a prominence or
protrusion of the eye. The degree of protrusion is variable and may
involve one or both eyes. Swelling of the muscles which move the eyes
may produce double vision. In severe cases the clear covering of the
eye (cornea) may ulcerate, or the optic nerve may be damaged which
results in a permanent loss of vision.
Can Thyroid Eye Disease Occur Even if
Thyroid Function Tests are Normal?
YES! Protrusion and other symptoms of
thyroid eye disease may be present even when tests show abnormal level
of thyroid hormone in the blood. However, most patients with eye
symptoms have abnormal levels of thyroid hormone.
How is Thyroid Eye Disease Treated?
Once an overactive thyroid gland is
suspected, the thyroid function must be evaluated and appropriately
treated. The eye disease may continue to progress after the thyroid
function is treated and returned to normal. Any residual eye problems
should be followed and treated by an ophthalmologist.
Two phases of eye treatment should be
considered. The first phase involves treating the active eye
disease. The active period, which usually lasts two or more years,
requires careful monitoring until stable. The second phase involves
correcting unacceptable permanent changes which persist following
stabilization of the active phase.
Treatment during the active phase of the
disease focuses on preserving sight. Medical treatment such as
artificial tears and ointments, high does of cortisone (steroids),
orbital surgery and possible radiation of the orbit may be required.
In the second phase treatment of permanent changes may require
surgical correction of double vision, staring appearance or eye
protrusion.
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