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New Delhi . People often associate Thyroid disease with weight gain or loss, fatigue, weakness and hormonal imbalance, but its effect is not limited to body weight or energy levels only. In some patients, thyroid disease can also affect the eyes. This is called thyroid eye disease. In this condition, problems like swelling in the eyes, redness, irritation, bulging of the eyes outwards and double vision can occur. In serious conditions, there is a risk that the patient's eyesight may also be affected. In view of this, experts from all over the world have issued new global guidelines regarding the diagnosis and treatment of the disease.

The new guidelines have been prepared by the World Society of Ophthalmic Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery and the International Thyroid Eye Disease Society. These have been published in the medical journal Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. The objective of the new system is to provide better facilities for testing and treatment of patients according to the severity of their disease in different countries.

According to experts, in thyroid eye disease, the body's immune system starts affecting the muscles and tissues around the eyes. This may cause swelling and redness around the eyes. A burning sensation may be felt in the eyes and in some patients the eyes start bulging outwards. The problem of double vision can also occur due to damage to the eye muscles. It is not right to ignore such symptoms by considering them as normal thyroid problems.

The most serious situation can occur when the disease causes pressure on the optic nerve at the back of the eye. This can increase the risk of weakening of vision and in severe cases can lead to loss of vision. According to experts, cases of thyroid eye disease are increasing. More cases of this disease can be seen in women, whereas men may have a higher risk of serious eye problems and vision being affected. Its risk is also considered higher in patients with hyperthyroidism i.e. increased thyroid hormone.

The new global guidelines recommend dividing thyroid eye disease into three levels. These include basic intermediate and advanced levels. Its purpose is to decide the treatment of the patient according to the severity of the disease. If a patient's condition is more serious, arrangements can be made to refer him to a bigger hospital or specialist center with better facilities.

In the new guidelines, emphasis has been laid on examining the patient's eyes and evaluating problems like thyroid hormone, eyesight and double vision. If necessary, CT scan, MRI and other advanced tests can also be done. Therefore, if symptoms like swelling in the eyes, swelling of the eyes, redness, blurred vision or double vision occur along with thyroid problem, then it is important to get checked by a doctor. Early detection of the disease may improve the chances of preventing serious complications and preserving eyesight.