Kevin TruebloodDr. Khalert

Technical Explanation for a Lay Audience

-Also known as Graves’ Ophthalmopathy-

Thyroid-AssociatedEye Disease

(TED)

WHY ARE YOU HERE? Everyone here has been diagnosed with

TED, hyperthyroidism, and/or Graves’ Disease.

To be educated! We will cover: What is TED? What are the symptoms? What are my treatment options?

WHAT IS THE THYROID GLAND?

First and Foremost

It is a large endocrine gland that wraps around your Adam’s Apple.

An endocrine gland is an organ that releases hormones into the bloodstream.

The thyroid’s hormones are key in managing your metabolism and functional growth.

It also regulates blood pressure, heart rate, and internal body temperature.

IT IS IMPORTANT!!!

The Thyroid

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN THE THYROID STOPS WORKING PROPERLY? Hyperthyroidism: When the thyroid

produces to many hormones. Hypothyroidism: When the thyroid

doesn’t produce enough hormones. Hyperthyroidism is what we are

concerned with today.

WHAT CAUSES HYPERTHYROIDISM? Graves’ Disease – an autoimmune

disease. Meat (believe it or not) Some medications Thyroiditis – inflammation of thyroid. Certain foods with iodine Genetics

Mama Trueblood

HOW IS THIS CONNECTED WITH TED? TED can come about in many ways, but

it is most commonly formed from the unfortunate combination of Graves’ Disease and hyperthyroidism.

The thyroid releases antibodies that falsely attack the muscles and tissues around the eyes.

These areas become inflamed and fill with water, which can cause a number of problems.

WARNING

Upper lid retraction. Sometimes one eye can be affected.

Extreme damage to cornea.

WHAT TO EXPECT Proptosis: swelling pushing the eyes

forward. Retraction of eyelids. Less eye movement. Double vision. Problems blinking and closing eyes. Damage to cornea or optic nerve.

SYMPTOMATIC TREATMENT In many cases, TED is not severe

enough for complex treatment options. Medicated eye drops can help dry eyes. Eye tape can be used for incomplete lid

closure. More pillows can prevent eye flooding!

Treatment Options

DOUBLE VISION Also known as diplopia Posture training Prism eyeglasses Surgery to reduce enlargement behind

eyes

MEDICAL DECOMPRESSION The use of medication to decompress

the affected areas Not recommended!

RADIOTHERAPY A noninvasive way to reduce tension in

eye muscles. Recommended use for only first year of

diagnosis. Radiation is dangerous in the long-term!

SURGICAL DECOMPRESSION Used as last resort. Needed when the cornea or optic nerve

are in danger. Can be used cosmetically as well. Incision and fat draining.

LID SURGERY Sometimes after TED has been resolved,

the eyelids are still retracted. Done immediately after surgery. Surgical muscle manipulation. Insertion of “spacers” about 4 mm thick.

Only 1 in 20 people with hyperthyroidism will get TED.

Most cases of TED are not severe. Now that you are educated, you have a

better chance of catching the symptoms early and receiving non-invasive treatment.

Don’t Worry!

GO EDUCATE YOURSELVES!! Graves’ Disease Hypothyroidism Goiter TED without thyroid problems Radiotherapy

QUESTIONS?