Thyroid Eye Disease Awareness Week, observed from November 18th to November 24th, 2024, is a vital opportunity to shine a spotlight on this often-misunderstood condition. Thyroid Eye Disease (TED) is an autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the eyes, causing symptoms ranging from mild irritation to severe vision problems. Raising awareness during this week encourages early diagnosis, treatment, and support for those affected by TED.
What is Thyroid Eye Disease?
Thyroid Eye Disease, also known as Graves’ Orbitopathy or Graves’ Ophthalmopathy, occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the muscles and tissues around the eyes. TED is most commonly linked with Graves’ disease, an autoimmune disorder that causes the thyroid to produce too much thyroid hormone (hyperthyroidism). However, TED can also occur in people with normal thyroid function or in those with hypothyroidism.
Symptoms of Thyroid Eye Disease can vary but often include:
- Bulging eyes (proptosis)
- Eye redness and swelling
- Dry, gritty sensation in the eyes
- Double vision or vision loss
- Light sensitivity
- Eye pain
These symptoms can significantly affect a person’s daily life, making it important to spread Thyroid Eye Disease Awareness to encourage people to recognize early warning signs.
The Importance of Thyroid Eye Disease Awareness Week
Early diagnosis and treatment of TED are critical for preventing more serious complications. Many people, including those with hyperthyroidism, may not realize their eye issues are related to their thyroid condition. That’s why Thyroid Eye Disease Awareness Week serves as a platform to educate the public about the connection between thyroid disorders and eye health. It encourages individuals with symptoms to seek medical advice from an eye specialist or an endocrinologist, ensuring they receive the right care.
Treatment for TED may involve:
- Medications like Tepezza® (teprotumumab), which specifically targets the underlying cause of the disease
- Corticosteroids to reduce inflammation
- Surgical interventions in severe cases to correct bulging eyes or improve vision
Lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, can also improve outcomes for those with TED, as smoking is known to worsen the condition.
What You Can Do During Thyroid Eye Disease Awareness Week
There are several ways you can support Thyroid Eye Disease Awareness:
- Educate Yourself and Others: Share information on social media, attend online webinars, or encourage friends and family to learn about TED. The more people know about the symptoms and treatments, the more likely they are to seek help early.
- Encourage Regular Health Screenings: If you or someone you know has a thyroid condition, be vigilant about any changes in eye health. Annual eye exams can help detect early signs of TED.
- Advocate for Research and Support: Support organizations that fund research into autoimmune diseases, including TED. Their efforts are crucial for discovering new treatments and improving patient care.
Schedule an Eye Exam at Paragon
Thyroid Eye Disease Awareness Week provides a crucial opportunity to raise awareness of a condition that is often overlooked. If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of TED, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment at Paragon Eye Associates. By spreading knowledge and supporting research, we can help reduce the impact of this condition and improve the quality of life for those affected. If you have any concerns about your vision or want to schedule an eye exam, please fill out the form below or call (817) 277-6433 for our Arlington office or (817) 477-0223 for our Mansfield office.Let’s make this week count by promoting Thyroid Eye Disease Awareness and encouraging timely action to protect our vision and overall health!
