Eye Problems Associated With Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism includes any medical condition that results in abnormally low thyroid hormone levels. Autoimmune disease, insufficient dietary iodine, surgery, inadequate stimulation of the thyroid gland and treatment for certain diseases can lead to hypothyroidism. Eye problems may develop in some people with hypothyroidism. Accurate diagnosis of the underlying cause of decreased thyroid function is an important factor in determining the appropriate therapy for eye problems associated with hypothyroidism.

Close up of woman's eyes. (Image: Jupiterimages/Pixland/Getty Images)

Swelling Around the Eyes

People with hypothyroidism may develop swelling around the eyes and in the face. With this condition, mucus-like proteins accumulate in the deep layers of the skin, explains the Merck Manual for Healthcare Professionals. With treatment of hypothyroidism, the proteins usually dissipate and the swelling around the eyes resolves.

Drooping Eyelids

Drooping eyelids, or ptosis, commonly occurs in people with hypothyroidism, notes the medical reference text "Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine." The level of thyroid hormones in the body influences nervous system control of the eyelid position. Decreased nerve stimulation of the eyelids associated with hypothyroidism leads to eyelid drooping. Severe ptosis may partially obstruct the field of vision.

Exophthalmos and Eye Dryness

Thyroid eye disease most commonly occurs with a form of overactive thyroid disease known as Graves' disease. Thyroid eye disease, however, can also occur among people with hypothyroidism, notes the University of Michigan Kellogg Eye Center. The condition develops when antithyroid antibodies produced by the immune system also attack the soft tissues and muscles of the eye.

Exophthalmos, or bulging eyes, is a hallmark feature of thyroid eye disease. Inflammation associated with the autoimmune attack on the tissues of the eye socket cause swelling, which pushes the eyeballs forward. With pronounced exophthalmos, the eyelids may not close completely, leaving the eyes vulnerable to drying. Eye dryness typically causes irritation and a gritty sensation in the eyes.

In severe cases, thyroid eye disease and the associated dryness can lead to the development of ulcers on the eye surface, reports the University of Iowa Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences. Scarring of the cornea--the clear area at the front of the eye--caused by surface ulcers may lead to permanent vision loss.

Eye Nerve Damage

Swelling of the soft tissues of the eye socket caused by thyroid eye disease can encroach on the eye nerve, also known as the optic nerve. This nerve serves as the communication circuit between the eye and the brain. Compression of the optic nerve can cause permanent damage, potentially leading to complete vision loss in the affected eye. The University of Iowa Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences reports that approximately 5 percent of people with thyroid eye disease develop optic nerve problems. Intensive medical treatment can help reduce the risk for permanent optic nerve damage caused by thyroid eye disease.