Thyroid eye disease (TED) is an autoimmune condition that can cause inflammation in the tissue behind the eye. This can result in swelling and cause the eye to bulge forward. Learn more about ways you can reduce swelling from thyroid eye disease.

Thyroid eye disease (TED) is an autoimmune condition associated with Graves’ disease. It occurs when the immune system attacks the muscles and tissues behind the eye, causing inflammation in and around the eye. Sometimes the swelling can start to push the eye out of position and affect vision.

Many people who develop eye symptoms will have mild cases.

You can take steps to help manage your symptoms during active TED. If the condition is more severe, medications and surgeries can shorten the disease’s course and address physical concerns.

These 8 common treatments can help relieve symptoms of thyroid eye disease:

There are many different types of eye drops. Some are available over the counter, and others are by prescription:

  • Artificial tears: These are available without a prescription. They lubricate your eye to soothe dryness and irritation. They’re designed to be similar to the tears that your eye produces. You can get them with and without preservatives. If you’re using them more than 4 times daily, it’s best to use a type without preservatives.
  • Lubricating gels: These are similar to artificial tears but thicker. They last longer than artificial tears. They can temporarily blur your vision, so many people choose to use these before bed.
  • Steroid eye drops: These drops help to reduce eye pain and swelling and can be helpful for people with TED. Steroid eye drops have fewer side effects than oral steroids.

It’s best to avoid “red eye relief” eye drops if you have TED, even if your eyes are really red. Red-eye relief can make your eyes drier and more irritated over time.

It is important to always follow a healthcare professional’s advice about the type of eye drops you should take and how often you should take them. Some drops need to be shaken before use.

How to use eye drops

Once you’ve found the right type of eye drop, the key is to actually get it into your eye. This can take some practice.

Here are some tips:

  • Wash your hands to avoid contaminating the eye drops.
  • Tilt your head back to look toward the ceiling, or lie down if that’s easier.
  • Use one finger to gently pull down your bottom lid.
  • Position the tip of the eye drop bottle over the space you created by lowering the bottom lid.
  • Gently squeeze the drop bottle to release one or two drops into your eye.
  • Keep your eye closed for a few minutes once the drops are in.

A cool compress can soothe red and irritated eyes. The cool temperature decreases blood flow to the area and can reduce swelling.

You can buy a reusable eye mask that you put in the fridge or freezer to cool down before using. You can also try a washcloth soaked in cool water. These can be used as needed.

Being in a dry environment can make irritated eyes feel worse. If you need to be outside on a windy day, consider wearing glasses or sunglasses that protect all sides of your eyes. Being near a fan or in air conditioning for too long can also be drying.

It can be beneficial to limit the time you spend outside on a cold, dry day. Winter air contains less moisture and can leave you feeling drier. Try to use extra lubricating eye drops before and after being outside.

If you have the heat or air conditioning on while you drive, direct the vents away from your face.

It may also be helpful to use a humidifier at night, a device that retains moisture in the air. This can prevent the eyes from drying out.

If you’re experiencing light sensitivity, wearing wraparound sunglasses can help. You may want to keep extra pairs around the house, in a backpack or bag, and in the car. That way, they’re available when and where you need them.

If your eye is protruding due to swelling, it may be difficult to close your eyes. When the eyelid doesn’t cover the whole eye, your eye is unprotected and will feel even more irritated.

Taping your eyes shut before bed is a way to prevent them from drying out overnight. There are special medical tapes designed for this. They’re strong enough to hold the eye shut but gentle enough for the sensitive skin on the eyelid.

How to tape your eyes closed

To safely and effectively tape your eyes closed at night, follow these steps:

  1. Wash your hands thoroughly and pat them dry.
  2. Prepare the tape by cutting a piece that is just about wider than your eye.
  3. Look down and use your finger to gently close your eye.
  4. With your eye still closed, begin applying the tape horizontally from the inner corner of the eye until it extends past the outer corner of the eye.
  5. Press the tape down firmly and ensure it is covering the entire eye area and that there are no air pockets.

To remove the tape, peel it back in the opposite direction from which you applied it.

Smoking has been found to worsen cases of TED. People who smoke typically have increased symptoms than those who don’t smoke. If you do smoke, quitting or reducing the amount of smoking you do will help.

If you’re feeling ready to quit, consider talking with a doctor to learn about the support options available. It’s never too late to cut down or quit.

For mild cases of TED, selenium supplements may help to alleviate symptoms.

The American Thyroid Association recommends selenium supplements to help manage TED symptoms.

It is important to always check with a doctor or pharmacist before starting a new supplement.

Sometimes medications can help reduce swelling when eye drops aren’t enough. Prednisone is an oral steroid medication that may be used. The drug teprotumumab-trbw (Tepezza) is specifically for TED and has been shown to reduce bulging.

If you have TED, it is important to keep in touch with a healthcare professional and let them know if treatments aren’t helping or if your condition is getting worse.

It may be that another treatment option is better suited to you. Surgeries to improve the eye’s function and appearance may also be an option.

How long does swelling last in thyroid eye disease?

Swelling in thyroid eye disease may last anywhere from 6 months to 2 years. Depending on the stage of the disease, symptoms may disappear on their own or require treatment, such as eye drops.

How can I reduce inflammation in my thyroid eye?

You can reduce inflammation in your thyroid eye by using eye drops, keeping your eyes moist, and avoiding dry environments.

What worsens thyroid eye disease?

Smoking can often worsen thyroid eye disease and increase the severity of symptoms.

Many people with thyroid eye disease have mild cases. Common symptoms include dry, irritated eyes, and swelling in and around the eye.

There are strategies that can help to manage these symptoms. Medications, procedures, and surgeries may also be part of treatment for TED.

If your thyroid eye disease is interfering with your daily life, consider speaking with a healthcare professional. They can develop a treatment plan to help alleviate your symptoms.