Welcome to Discover Vision Centers in Kansas City, MO, your trusted provider for comprehensive Graves’ Disease eyes treatment. We specialize in diagnosing and managing bulging eye disease, commonly associated with Graves’ ophthalmopathy.
What Is Graves’ Eye Disease or Thyroid Eye Disease?
Graves’ Eye Disease, also known as Thyroid Eye Disease, is a complex condition that affects the eyes, usually in conjunction with thyroid disorders. It’s typically associated with Graves’ Disease, a type of autoimmune disorder that causes the thyroid gland to produce an excess of thyroid hormone, leading to a condition called hyperthyroidism. The immune system’s response to this imbalance often extends to the tissues around the eyes, resulting in Graves’ Disease bulging eyes, a distinguishing symptom of this ailment.
Why bulging eyes? In patients with Graves’ Eye Disease, the immune system mistakenly targets the muscles and fat tissue behind the eyes, causing inflammation and swelling. As a result, the eyes may bulge outwards. In some cases, the swelling can be so severe that it affects the patient’s ability to move their eyes freely. This bulging can lead to a variety of symptoms, including redness, irritation, and a gritty sensation in the eyes. In more severe cases, it can negatively impact your vision. Understanding and addressing this disease early is crucial in managing its impact and maintaining eye health.
What Is Graves’ Disease?
Graves’ Disease is an autoimmune disorder that triggers overproduction of thyroid hormones, resulting in hyperthyroidism. One notable symptom is bulging eyes, also known as thyroid eye disease, where inflammation and swelling cause the eyes to protrude. This condition can significantly affect a person’s appearance and, in severe cases, their vision.
What Are the Graves’ Ophthalmopathy Symptoms?
Graves’ Ophthalmopathy, or Thyroid Eye Disease, comes with a variety of symptoms that can range from mild to severe. At the outset, patients might notice a gritty sensation in their eyes, increased tear production, or a general discomfort that could be likened to having sand in the eyes. This is typically one of the earliest Graves’ Disease symptoms that people observe.
As the condition progresses, the symptoms often become more pronounced. The most common thyroid eye disease symptoms include redness or inflammation in the eyes, sensitivity to light, and the distinctive bulging of the eyes known as proptosis. This bulging, one of the key symptoms of thyroid eye disease, results from the swelling of muscles and tissues behind the eyes, causing them to push forward.
Patients may also experience more serious thyroid eye disease symptoms such as blurred vision, double vision, or even loss of vision in severe cases. In Graves’ Disease, the eye symptoms can often be a key indicator of the underlying condition. Therefore, it is essential to pay attention to these signs of Graves’ Disease and seek professional medical help at the earliest signs of discomfort.
How Is Graves’ Orbitopathy Treated?
Graves’ Orbitopathy demands a personalized approach to treatment. At Discover Vision Centers, we offer a range of options from medication management to thyroid eye disease treatment and surgery. Our mission is to reduce discomfort, improve appearance, and most importantly, protect your vision. Let’s explore the different aspects of Graves’ eye disease treatment and see how we can help you.
Simple Aids
Simple aids can go a long way in alleviating the discomfort caused by Graves’ Orbitopathy. Cool compresses can help reduce inflammation, while over-the-counter eye drops and lubricating gels can alleviate dryness and irritation. Additionally, Selenium supplements contain antioxidant properties and may improve mild symptoms and slow disease progression, offering another accessible tool in managing this condition.
For some patients, specially prescribed prism glasses in Kansas City may help correct double vision associated with Graves’ Orbitopathy.
Prescription Medicines
Prescription medicines play a crucial role in managing Graves’ Orbitopathy. Corticosteroids can help reduce severe inflammation, while other medications can regulate thyroid hormone levels. It’s important to remember that medication effectiveness varies among individuals, and treatment should always be tailored to the patient’s specific needs and health profile. Our team at Discover Vision Centers will guide you through this process, ensuring optimal care.
Radiation
Radiation therapy can be an effective option for treating Graves’ Orbitopathy in specific cases. By targeting the inflamed tissues around the eyes, it can help reduce swelling and alleviate symptoms. This treatment is typically considered when other interventions are ineffective or when the disease is particularly severe.
Surgery
If it is determined that surgery is needed, each of these surgical procedures aims to alleviate the symptoms of Graves’ Orbitopathy, improve the patient’s quality of life, and protect vision. It’s worth noting that these surgeries are usually performed in a specific order, with orbital decompression first, followed by eye muscle surgery, and finally eyelid surgery.
Orbital Decompression Surgery: If your doctor is concerned about the amount of pressure on your optic nerve, orbital decompression surgery may be recommended. The goal of this procedure is to give your eyes enough space to shift back to their normal position.
Eye Muscle Surgery: Eye Muscle Surgery can improve double vision by adjusting the affected muscles, while Orbital Decompression Surgery provides more space for the eyes by removing part or all of the bone between the eye socket and the sinuses.
Eyelid surgery: In cases where other treatments are insufficient, surgery may be the best course of action. Eyelid surgery can address retraction and help restore the natural appearance of the eyes.
Our team at Discover Vision Centers ensures that each patient receives optimal care, including comprehensive retina eye care when necessary, to safeguard their vision and eye health.
Request an Appointment with a Kansas City Thyroid Eye Disease Specialist
Ready to reclaim control over your vision? Schedule an appointment with our Kansas City Thyroid Eye Disease specialists today and embark on your journey towards clearer, healthier sight.
What Are The Risk Factors of Graves’ Ophthalmopathy?
Graves’ Ophthalmopathy can affect anyone, but certain risk factors make some individuals more susceptible to developing this condition. One of the primary risk factors is having Graves’ Disease, an autoimmune disorder that affects the thyroid. People with this condition are more likely to develop Graves’ Ophthalmopathy, which can manifest as bug eyes thyroid or Graves’ Disease puffy eyes.
In addition to Graves’ Disease, certain lifestyle habits can also increase the risk. Smoking, for instance, has been linked to a higher likelihood of developing Graves’ Ophthalmopathy, and it can also make the condition more severe. Other risk factors include high levels of stress, a lack of sleep, and certain dietary factors.
Genetics can also play a part. If you have a family history of Graves’ Disease or other autoimmune disorders, you may be at a higher risk of developing Graves’ Ophthalmopathy. As with many health conditions, early detection and treatment are key to managing Graves’ Ophthalmopathy effectively.
What Causes Thyroid Eye Disease?
Thyroid Eye Disease, or Graves’ Ophthalmopathy, is primarily associated with Graves’ Disease, an autoimmune condition that causes the thyroid gland to overproduce hormones. The exact Graves’ Disease causes are not entirely understood, but it’s believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
In Graves’ Disease, the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues, including those in the thyroid gland and the tissues around the eyes. This immune response leads to inflammation and swelling, which can cause the eyes to bulge outward, a distinctive symptom known as Thyroid Eye Disease. While the precise trigger for this autoimmune response remains unclear, it’s likely that a complex interplay of genetic susceptibility, environmental factors, and possibly some lifestyle elements underlie the cause of Thyroid Eye Disease.
How Is Bulging Eye Disease Diagnosed?
Diagnosing bulging eye disease typically involves a thorough eye examination, along with a detailed medical history. At Discover Vision Centers, our specialists use advanced diagnostic tools during a routine eye exam in Kansas City to identify signs of inflammation and changes in the eye structure. The thyroid eye disease diagnosis also often requires blood tests to check thyroid hormone levels, aiding in a comprehensive evaluation.
Why Choose Discover Vision For Thyroid Eye Disease Treatment in Kansas City, MO?
Choosing Discover Vision Centers for your thyroid eye disease treatment means placing your trust in an experienced team that has served Kansas City since 1973. We are dedicated to providing cutting-edge treatments and personalized care, whether you’re facing thyroid bulging eyes or Graves’ disease swollen eyes. Our specialists are nationally and internationally recognized for their expertise, pioneering research, and contributions to the latest advancements in eye care. We are committed to protecting your vision and improving your quality of life, offering comprehensive services at our nine full-service optical shops and three dedicated surgery centers. Trust us to guide you through this journey with compassion, understanding, and world-class medical care.
Our Graves’ Disease Eye Doctors & Specialists
At Discover Vision Centers, our team of highly trained Graves’ Disease eye doctors and specialists are at the forefront of diagnosing and treating thyroid eye disease. Each specialist brings a wealth of knowledge and experience, coupled with a commitment to patient care and ongoing research into innovative treatments. As a patient, you can expect the highest level of care from our team, who will work tirelessly to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Whether you need a routine check-up or a more specialized treatment, our eye specialists for Graves’ Disease are ready to help guide you through your journey to better eye health.
Brett Dawson, O.D. is a residency-trained optometrist in primary care and ocular disease from the Memphis Veterans Administration Hospital. Prior to completing his doctor of optometry degree from Southern College of Optometry, Dr. Dawson worked at Discover Vision Centers during his time off from school.
Dr. Doug Dehning is a board-certified ophthalmologist whose specialties include retina/vitreous, diabetic eye care, retinal detachment, macular degeneration, no-stitch cataracts and glaucoma. He often participates in clinical investigations for the latest treatments in glaucoma and other conditions.
Dr. Javed Sayed is a fellowship-trained ophthalmologist specializing in Retina Surgery, Vitreoretinal Diseases, Diabetic Eye Disease, Macular Degeneration, Uveitis, and Ocular Trauma. Dr. Sayed is accepting new patients at our Northland, Leawood, Legends and Olathe locations.
Dr. Ajay Singh is a board-certified ophthalmologist specializing in Retina Surgery, Vitreoretinal Diseases, Diabetic Eye Disease, Macular Degeneration, Uveitis, Complicated Cataracts and Ocular Trauma at Discover Vision’s Leawood, KS and Independence, MO offices.
Reviews
At Discover Vision Centers, we are proud of the strong relationships we’ve built with our patients over the years. Here are a few of the experiences shared by individuals we’ve had the privilege of treating:
Everyone was very pleasant and helpful. Dr. Brett Dawson was very kind, explanatory of what was going on and what we need to do now and what the goal is for this not happening again. Also he has a bit of a sense of humor, appreciated that!! Discover is really great!!
Bonnie L
Dr. Sayed is personable and approachable, while being one of the finest surgeons in his field. Thank you, Dr. Sayed, for preventing me from going blind in my right eye. Your quick response to my emergency was key.
Brian McCallister
All my appts have been on time and I can’t say enough good things about the staff and my doctor. Dr. Dehning is the best! I would highly recommend Discover Vision and Dr. Dehning.
Grace Murphy
Contact Discover Vision for Graves’ Eye Disease Treatment Today!
If you’re struggling with bulging eyes Graves’ disease, don’t wait to seek help. Contact Discover Vision Centers today! We’re proud to serve patients across Kansas City, Missouri, and Kansas with exceptional eye care. Your journey towards improved vision and comfort starts here.
Thyroid eye disease is not contagious. It is an autoimmune disorder, which means it results from the body’s immune system mistakenly attacking its own tissues. It cannot be transmitted from person to person.
How to minimize thyroid eye disease symptoms?
Managing symptoms of thyroid eye disease involves a combination of lifestyle modifications, such as quitting smoking and maintaining a balanced diet, and medical treatment under a specialist’s guidance. It’s also crucial to keep your eyes moisturized and protected from wind and bright light.
What Is the prognosis if I have thyroid eye disease?
The prognosis for thyroid eye disease varies between individuals, depending on the severity of their symptoms and their response to treatment. Most patients can manage their symptoms with appropriate treatment and lifestyle adjustments, preventing further progression of the disease.
Can you have thyroid eye disease without having Graves disease?
While rare, it is possible to develop thyroid eye disease without Graves’ disease. It can occur in people with other forms of thyroid dysfunction or even those with normal thyroid function. However, most cases are associated with Graves’ disease.
