Steroids usually are given orally, although the intravenous route is sometimes used. Often high doses are needed. The dosage is gradually decreased, and a low dosage is maintained until symptoms improve. Unfortunately, steroids have many possible adverse side effects. Radiation therapy targeted to the tissue behind the eyeball is sometimes used to decrease orbital inflammation.
Some physicians use combinations of radiation and steroids.
Surgical orbital decompression is an important method of relieving severe pressure on the optic nerve, which threatens vision. Various surgical procedures are used to make room in the eye socket for the swollen and thickened orbital tissue. This allows the bulging eye to relax back to its normal position. Follow-up with an eye physician is an important part of preventive care for patients with Graves disease. The General Eye Clinic is located in the Eye and Ear Infirmary at 1855 W. Taylor Street, Chicago IL 60612.