Thyroid eye disease is associated with
hyperthyroidism in most cases but can also
develop in patients with normal
and low thyroid studies. This imbalance
causes inflammatory change in the eye socket
(orbit) which can lead to disturbing
symptoms including: severe ocular dryness,
double vision, ocular fullness, forward
displacement of the eyes, widened distance
between the eyelids, ocular pain and vision
loss. It most commonly develops in women and
may be mild and non-progressive in some but
may develop more acutely in some patients.
The first step in the care for this disease
is a complete ophthalmologic exam including
an evaluation of the eyelid, eyeball and
optic nerve. Along with this, detailed
knowledge and evaluation of the thyroid
status is necessary. We work closely with
your internist or endocrinologist to gain a
full understanding of the systemic disease.
Our first goal is to ensure stability of
your disease through medical management.
Thyroid eye disease is a complex set of
problems that should be approached in a
logical and systemic fashion. By utilizing a
‘team’ approach and tailoring specific
treatments to each patient, we have been
successful in controlling this disease. Ct
scan and possibly MRI studies are helpful
when developing a treatment plan. As the
problems are stabilized, we seek to create a
treatment plan specific to your set of
problems. These treatments range from eye
lubrication regimens and anti-inflammatory
treatments, and may require eyelid surgery,
eye muscle or orbital decompression surgery
in more severe cases.
Visit our
ophthalmology /
eye plastic surgery offices in
New York,
Rye Brook and Bronx, NY.
