Thyroid ophthalmopathy is an eye disease that occurs due to the thyroid gland being overactive or underactive. It is commonly associated with Graves’ disease or hypothyroidism, where the thyroid gland is underactive, but it can occur in both conditions. This condition is an autoimmune disorder that affects the eye muscles, tear glands, and connective tissues.
Symptoms and characteristics of thyroid ophthalmopathy may include:
Swelling in the eye socket and, often in advanced stages, protrusion of the eyes (proptosis).
The treatment aims to stabilize thyroid hormone levels, alleviate eye symptoms, and control any advancing damage. It is important for individuals with thyroid ophthalmopathy to work closely with an endocrinologist and an eye doctor.