Thyroid Eye Disease Treatment in St. Petersburg & Clearwater
Hyperthyroidism can cause significant eye symptoms that sometimes persist or worsen even after the thyroid condition is controlled. Tampa Bay Cosmetic Surgery Center offers specialized treatment for thyroid eye disease.
The eye problems are caused by swelling of the soft tissues surrounding the eyes and enlargement of the muscles that move the eyes. As a result, the eyes may protrude forward, the eyelids may retract, there’s an inability to fully close the eyelids, and an abnormally large amount of the front of the eye is exposed. This results in wide, prominent eyes, a fixed staring expression, and infrequent blinking.
Some patients experience eye problems as soon as their thyroid becomes hyperactive. In other cases, eye changes develop slowly, sometimes years after the onset of abnormal thyroid activity.
Dr. Kass’s Unique Approach for Bulging Eyes
Dr. Kass’s work with thyroid eye disease patients has even been featured in a newspaper story: “Graves’ Disease Patients Get New Hope.”
Patients may experience pressure about the eyes, double vision, excessive tearing, and irritation of the conjunctiva, the mucous membrane lining the eyelids. Inability to close the eyes at night can result in dryness, discomfort, blurred vision, a foreign body sensation, or light sensitivity.
Treatment
In cases of mild eye problems, treatment is directed at minimizing symptoms. Sleeping with the head elevated and using topical eye ointments and artificial tears may soothe the eyes.
In some cases, eye surgery is needed to correct the condition, and function and appearance can usually be improved. Surgery is usually performed as an outpatient procedure with no need for hospitalization. Local anesthesia with sedation, or general anesthesia, may be used so there’s little to no pain during or after the procedure.
Thyroid Eye Disease FAQs
Why do eye symptoms persist even after thyroid treatment?
Eye symptoms are caused by swelling of tissues and muscles around the eye, which can persist independently even after the underlying thyroid hormone imbalance is controlled.
What are the visible signs of thyroid eye disease?
Common signs include protruding eyes, eyelid retraction, an inability to fully close the eyelids, a fixed staring expression, and infrequent blinking.
Can thyroid eye disease affect vision?
Yes, symptoms can include double vision, blurred vision, and light sensitivity, particularly when the eyes can’t fully close at night.
Is surgery always necessary for thyroid eye disease?
No, mild cases are often managed with conservative measures like elevated sleeping position, lubricating ointments, and artificial tears; surgery is reserved for more significant cases.
What type of anesthesia is used for thyroid eye disease surgery?
Depending on the procedure, local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia may be used, and surgery is typically performed as an outpatient procedure.
How long after thyroid problems begin do eye symptoms appear?
Timing varies; some patients notice eye problems as soon as the thyroid becomes overactive, while others develop symptoms gradually, sometimes years later.
Who should I see for thyroid eye disease treatment?
An oculofacial specialist experienced in thyroid eye disease, like Dr. Kass, can evaluate both the functional and cosmetic aspects of the condition.