How is exophthalmos (protruding eye) in one eye due to hyperthyroidism treated?
Aug 30, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Pan Yongyuan
Introduction
Treatment for thyroid eye disease with protrusion of one eye typically includes general measures such as limiting salt intake, using diuretics, adopting a high-pillow sleeping position, and applying sodium hyaluronate eye drops or methylcellulose eye solutions. Additionally, treatment may involve corticosteroids such as oral prednisone tablets or intravenous hydrocortisone injection. Surgical options include orbital decompression surgery.
The treatment for Graves' ophthalmopathy with protrusion of one eye typically includes general management, glucocorticoid therapy, or orbital decompression surgery.
1. General management.
For patients with mild eye protrusion due to hyperthyroidism, reducing salt intake, using diuretics, and sleeping with a high pillow may help alleviate ocular edema. During the day, sodium hyaluronate eye drops can be used; at night, methylcellulose eye drops may provide relief. If the eyes cannot fully close during sleep, an eye mask or saline-soaked gauze can be used to protect the cornea.
2. Glucocorticoid therapy.
For mild active hyperthyroid eye disease, patients may take oral glucocorticoids such as prednisone tablets under medical supervision. For severe active cases, intravenous glucocorticoids—such as hydrocortisone injection—may be recommended by a physician.
3. Orbital decompression surgery.
If the above treatments are ineffective and the patient develops corneal ulcers, infections, or optic nerve or retinal damage due to compression, orbital decompression surgery may be recommended by a physician to prevent blindness.
