TED is a condition characterized by inflammation and swelling of the muscles and tissues around the eyes. It is caused by an abnormal immune response to the thyroid gland. TED can cause a variety of symptoms, including eye swelling, double vision, and eye discomfort.
of National Library of Medicine Thyroid eye disease is more common in women than men, affecting 16 out of 100,000 women and only 2.9 out of 100,000 men.
This condition occurs when the thyroid becomes overactive or underactive. An overactive (hyperthyroid) or underactive (hypothyroid) thyroid gland can trigger an autoimmune reaction, in which the body’s immune system attacks the muscles and tissues around the eyes. attack by mistake.
This causes the eyes to bulge, become red and swollen, causing double vision and other eye problems.
Living with TED can be difficult, but there are coping strategies that can help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
stress management
TED is not a life-threatening disease, but its symptoms can be very threatening to those affected. is essential for managing eye disease.
This can be achieved by engaging in stress-reducing activities such as yoga, meditation, and exercise. According to the National Library of Medicine, doing yoga exercises for the eyes can help reduce eye fatigue because the muscles that control the eyes are more efficient.
If that doesn’t work, see a therapist or counselor for help finding other strategies that work better.
eye protection
Another important strategy for managing the symptoms of TED is to protect your eyes from further damage. This includes wearing sunglasses when you are outdoors to protect your eyes from the sun’s ultraviolet rays. is also included. Also by avoiding activities that can cause eye strain, such as reading for long periods of time or working at the computer.
By protecting your eyes from UV rays, you reduce eye fatigue by minimizing the amount of glare and bright light that enters your eyes. Glare or glare makes it difficult for your eyes to focus and causes eye fatigue and discomfort.
Wearing UV-blocking sunglasses and a brimmed hat can help block or reduce glare and bright light from entering your eyes. This makes it easier for the eyes to focus and reduces eye strain.
nutrition and diet
Eating a healthy diet is beneficial for people with thyroid eye disease (TED) as it helps manage symptoms and promote overall health. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats can help improve energy levels, reduce inflammation, and promote healthy weight management.
Additionally, certain nutrients such as selenium, zinc and vitamin A may be important for thyroid and eye health.
medicine and surgery
Drugs: TED is often treated with drugs that reduce inflammation and swelling, such as corticosteroids (such as prednisone) and immunosuppressants (such as methimazole). These drugs help reduce symptoms such as redness, pain, and double vision.
It is important to note that Teprotumumab (brand name for Tepezza) is a monoclonal antibody that targets and blocks the action of the insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF-1R), which is thought to be involved in the development of TED. is.
However, this drug is in the limelight because of its side effects. In clinical trials, a proportion of patients treated with teprotumumab experienced hearing loss.
The FDA also recommends that patients receiving this drug have their hearing tested before and during treatment.
This situation has led affected people to file lawsuits against drug manufacturers. If you or someone you know seems to be the victim of this situation, Tepeza lawsuit Hold relevant authorities accountable.
Surgery: in some cases surgery It may be required to correct problems caused by TED, such as double vision and drooping eyelids. Surgical options include:
- Orbital decompression: This procedure is done to create more space for the eye muscles and reduce pressure on the optic nerve.
- Eyelid surgery: Surgery to reposition or remove excess tissue from the eyelid to improve its function and appearance.
- Extraocular muscle surgery or strabismus: Surgery that repositions the muscles that control eye movements to improve eye alignment and reduce double vision.
It is important to note that not all TED patients require surgery, and surgery is only considered when all other treatments have failed and the patient’s quality of life is affected.
Support and resources
Remember, you’re not alone with TED. There are support groups and resources available for people living with this condition. Joining a support group is a great way to understand what you’re going through and connect with others who share coping strategies and advice.
Conclusion
Living with TED can be difficult, but with the right coping strategies and support, you can manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Remember to take care of yourself, protect your eyes and seek help when needed.
