How is thyroid eye disease treated?
Once an overactive thyroid gland is suspected, the thyroid function must be evaluated and appropriately treated. The eye disease may continue to progress after the thyroid function is treated and returned to normal. Any residual eye problems should be followed and treated by an ophthalmologist. Two phases of eye treatment should be considered. The first phase involves treating the active eye disease. The active period, which usually lasts two or more years, requires careful monitoring until stable. The second phase involves correcting unacceptable permanent changes which persist following stabilization of the active phase. Treatment during the active phase of the disease focuses on preserving sight. Medical treatment such as artificial tears and ointments, high does of cortisone (steroids), orbital surgery and possible radiation of the orbit may be required. In the second phase treatment of permanent changes may require surgical correction of double vision, staring appearance or eye pr
