Thyroid eye disease is a condition that affects the thyroid gland and the eyes. It can cause inflammation, swelling, and problems with the muscles and tissues around the eyes. In some cases, it can also lead to vision loss. While there is no full cure, eye disease treatment options are available with us at Thyroid Eyes - Eye Wellness Centers in Bellaire, TX, to help lessen its symptoms. If you are experiencing thyroid eye disease symptoms, see our ophthalmologist for diagnosis and eye disease treatment. Our eye doctor is here to help.
What Causes Thyroid Eye Disease?
The exact cause of thyroid eye disease is unknown. However, it is believed to be linked to an overactive or underactive thyroid gland. It may also be due to a problem with the immune system. When the thyroid gland is not functioning properly, it can cause a build-up of hormones in the blood. This hormonal imbalance can lead to the symptoms of thyroid eye disease.
Who Is at Risk of Thyroid Eye Disease?
Thyroid eye disease can affect anyone, but it is most common in women who are around 40 year old. People with an overactive or underactive thyroid gland are also at increased risk of developing the condition. Additionally, people with a family history of thyroid eye disease or other autoimmune disorders may be more likely to develop the condition.
Symptoms of Thyroid Eye Disease
The most common symptom of thyroid eye disease is bulging of the eyes. This can cause the eyes to appear larger than usual and sometimes painful. Other symptoms of thyroid eye disease may include:
- Dry eyes
- Redness and irritation of the eyes
- Gritty feeling in the eyes
- Double vision
- Sensitivity to light
- Pain in the eyes
- Pressure in the eyes
- Swollen eyelids
- Drooping of the eyelids
In some cases, thyroid eye disease can also cause vision loss. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you must see your doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
Diagnosing Thyroid Eye Disease
Our “ophthalmologist near me” will likely ask about your medical history and symptoms. Our ophthalmologist in Bellaire, TX, may also do an eye exam. In some cases, additional testing may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis. This may include blood tests or a biopsy of the eye tissue.
Thyroid Eye Disease Treatment
There is no full cure for thyroid eye disease. However, our “ophthalmologist near me” can offer eye disease treatment options to help lessen its symptoms and improve vision. Treatment may include:
- Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to improve vision or relieve pain.
- Medications: Medications may be prescribed to help reduce inflammation and swelling.
Get Eye Disease Treatment from Our Eye Doctor for Thyroid Eye Disease
If you are experiencing symptoms of thyroid eye disease, call us to schedule an appointment with our ophthalmologist in Bellaire. At Thyroid Eyes - Eye Wellness Centers in Bellaire, TX, our eye doctor can work with you to develop an eye disease treatment plan for your thyroid eye disease. Call us at (713) 942-2187.