I have been taking steroids with some success initially but my eye problem appears to be worse. I am also suffering from the side effects of steroids. I heard that this type of eye problem could be treated with radiation. The edema is secondary to the increased water pressure due to protein secreted by fibroblasts. The inflammation is due to infiltration of the extraocular muscles and orbital connective tissue by lymphocytes and macrophages.
Radiation helps ophthalmopathy by killing T lymphocytes to reduce inflammation behind the eyes.
It is most often used in patients in whom steroids are contraindicated, poorly tolerated, or cannot be discontinued because of exacerbation of ophthalmopathy. Orbital irradiation is most effective in reducing the inflammatory manifestations of ophthalmopathy, with little or no change in bulging eyes and muscle function. The usual dose is 20 Gy, administered in 10 doses of 2 Gy over two weeks. Orbital irradiation is contraindicated in diabetic patients, because of the risk of added retinal damage. You should discuss your problems with your endocrinologist and perhaps get a consultation from a radiation oncologist.