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What is Graves' disease? | Symptoms | Treatment | Consequences

What is Graves' disease?

Graves' Disease, which is the result of the thyroid producing too much thyroxin, affects more females than males. It may be caused by an abnormal immune process. Muscles that control eye movements swell and push the eyeball forward causing a pop eyed appearance. If untreated, Graves' Disease can damage the optic nerve and cornea.

Symptoms

The main symptom of Graves' Disease is a bulging eyeball. Unrelated symptoms include hand tremors, rapid heartbeat, and increased nervousness.

If you are experiencing some of the symptoms described here, it does not necessarily mean you have Grave's Disease. However, if you experience one or more of these symptoms, you should contact your eye doctor for a complete exam. Click here for information on emergency or immediate care.

Treatment

Treatment includes sleeping with the head elevated to reduce swelling of the eye tissues. Eye ointments or artificial tears are used to relieve irritation and dryness of the eye. When complications become severe, Graves' Disease may be treated with corticosteroids, radiation therapy, or surgery.

Consequences

As the eyeball bulges, the eyelids retract, exposing the cornea. The result is severe drying or damage to the eyes. In addition, the bulging eyeball can compress the optic nerve, threatening the person's vision.