Risk of Thyroid Eye Disease


Thyroid eye disease, is usually connected to Grave’s Disease, a condition that causes the thyroid to become overactive. That condition and thyroid eye disease are both categorised as autoimmune conditions because the immune system begins attacking itself instead of outside intruders. As a result, swelling and inflammation are the result. The swelling can lead to a protrusion of the eye from its socket, an inability to move the eye from side to side, and serious visual impairment. Without treatment, the condition can sometimes get worse.  If left untreated, sometimes symptoms diminish over time, although some of the symptoms may remain, such as a slight bulging of the eyes.

As with most diseases, there are risk factors that may make you more likely to suffer from Thyroid Eye Disease than someone else. If you have a history of Grave’s Disease, you are more likely to develop this condition. If you suffer from other thyroid conditions, including thyroid cancer, you may also be at greater risk.

Another risk factor is smoking. Research has shown a dramatic increase in prevalence among smokers, particularly heavy smokers. Quitting smoking also seems to reduce the risks of developing the disorder.

Age seems to be another common risk factor. You are most likely to develop this eye condition when you are between the ages of 30 and 50. Men who develop this disease after the age of 60 may have more severe symptoms.

Consequences of Untreated Thyroid Eye Disease

Although the condition will often resolve itself after as much as 24 months, some of the symptoms, including puffy and bulgy eyes, may become permanent. Because Grave’s Disease can affect other parts of the body, it’s important to talk to a physician about the problem. In most cases, you’ll be seen by an ophthalmologist and an endocrinologist (a medical expert on the endocrine system, including the thyroid).

Some of the vision problems, including double vision and dry eyes, can also be reduced or eliminated with treatment. Without treatment, about 10% of thyroid eye disease patients’ problems will get worse.

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