An autoimmune condition linked to the thyroid, known as Thyroid Eye Disease (TED), has the potential to cause swelling, bulging eyes, double vision, and, in more severe situations, lead to vision loss. This pathology can result in permanent physical changes and negatively impact the mental health of affected individuals.
Although connected to changes in the thyroid, the manifestation of the disease varies among people. It is important to note that not all patients with thyroid gland problems develop ocular complications, and TED can arise even without a prior diagnosis of thyroid dysfunction.
The clinical signs of the disease are diverse and may include redness, eyelid retraction, difficulty closing the eyes, increased tear production, light sensitivity, and a gritty sensation in the eyes. Furthermore, blurred vision and diplopia, the technical term for double vision, can occur. In more advanced cases, inflammation can damage the optic nerve, resulting in optic neuropathy and putting vision at risk.
The repercussions of TED go beyond physical health. Changes in appearance and visual difficulties can interfere with daily routines, professional careers, and the patient's self-esteem. Data indicates that 52% of patients report loss of self-confidence, 63% suffer psychosocial impact due to aesthetic changes, and another 45% develop anxiety and stress.
Mesa Junior comments that the disease deeply affects the patient's life, not only because of compromised vision that hinders work and daily life, but also due to the aesthetic aspect and how people perceive the individual.
More information about the condition
The global incidence of TED is estimated at 16 cases per 100,000 women and 2.9 cases per 100,000 men. Although it is more common in women, manifestations tend to be more severe in men and the elderly.
Medical monitoring is crucial, as the condition goes through distinct phases that require specific treatments. During the active phase, when inflammation and symptoms are present, Mesa Junior points out that this period can last from six months to two years, representing an ideal window for intervention.
After this phase, the disease generally decreases its activity, but does not always disappear completely. Certain changes, such as eye protrusion and eye deviation, may persist, constituting the chronic phase. The treatment plan must be adapted to the phase and the symptoms presented, potentially including medication or surgical procedures to relieve orbital pressure, correct strabismus, or treat eyelid retraction.
Care must be multidisciplinary. In addition to an endocrinologist, consultation with an ophthalmologist specializing in orbit and strabismus may be necessary to evaluate and treat ocular complications. Relapses of the disease, although rare, can occur, with emotional or physical stress (such as that generated by surgeries) and the use of certain medications cited as possible triggers.
Patients with thyroid dysfunctions should inform their endocrinologist about any ocular changes. Conversely, if ocular symptoms appear first, it is essential that the ophthalmologist investigates the possibility of an associated thyroid condition. Mesa Junior emphasizes the importance of communicating cases of frontal eye protrusion or double vision to healthcare professionals so that the correct investigation can be performed.
Awareness of TED is also a focus of a campaign promoted by Vozes do Advocacy, a federation grouping 25 diabetes associations. This initiative includes a mini-documentary with patient testimonials about difficulties in accessing information and diagnosis, as well as about the physical and emotional impacts of Thyroid Eye Disease. The campaign video is available on YouTube, and the original post was published on Olhar Digital.