Also known as Graves’ eye disease, thyroid eye disease can cause inflammation, swelling and pain in the tissue near your eyes. Severe cases may prevent your eyes from moving and closing properly. Our experts at California Sinus Centers are committed to delivering comprehensive care and the most advanced treatment options for this condition.
Treatment for Thyroid Eye Disease
Corticosteroids
Oral corticosteroid treatment, typically prednisone, has been associated with a short-term decrease in soft tissue swelling, optic neuropathy and extraocular muscle size in up to 65% of cases. The clinical response to intravenous corticosteroids is as high as 85% with fewer side effects than oral options.
External Beam Radiation
Although data on the effectiveness of radiation in treating thyroid eye diseases is mixed, overall improvement rates of 60-65% are typical in reported studies of patients in the active phase of the disease.
Radiation can decrease redness, swelling and discomfort, but is not routinely effective in reducing proptosis or double vision. Radiation can also be used effectively if optic neuropathy is present in an actively inflamed thyroid eye disease patient.
Patients with diabetes should not receive radiation.
Surgery
Our providers will partner with you to determine whether your symptoms can be managed with medication or if surgery is necessary.
Surgical options include:
- Orbital decompression, which is effective in decreasing or eliminating bulging eyes
- Eyelid retraction surgery, which corrects eyelids that are pulled too high or low
- Eye muscle surgery, which restores vision when looking straight ahead and down
If you or a loved one is suffering from Thyroid Eye Disease, contact California Sinus Centers to schedule a consultation and learn more about the available treatment options. Our skilled providers are here to help you manage your condition and protect your vision.
Call California Sinus Centers for more information or to schedule an appointment.