Thyroid Eye Disease (TED), also known as Thyroid-Associated Orbitopathy (TAO) or Graves’ Orbitopathy, is an autoimmune condition that affects the tissues around the eyes, including the muscles, fat, and connective tissue within the eye socket.

Although TED does not primarily affect the retina, it can have a significant impact on vision, eye comfort, appearance, and quality of life. In more severe cases, TED can affect eye movement, cause pressure on the optic nerve, and threaten vision.

TED is most commonly associated with Graves’ disease, an autoimmune condition affecting the thyroid gland, but it can also occur in people with normal thyroid function or other thyroid disorders.

Retina International recognises the importance of understanding the full range of conditions that affect vision and supports access to information, research, and communities for people living with vision-related conditions.

Thyroid Eye Disease occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks tissues around the eyes.

This immune response causes inflammation and swelling of the muscles and tissues within the eye socket (orbit). Over time, this can lead to changes in eye appearance, movement, comfort, and vision.

TED typically occurs in two phases:

Active Phase

During the active phase, inflammation is ongoing and symptoms may change or worsen.

This phase may last months to several years.

Stable Phase

Once inflammation settles, symptoms may stabilise. Some changes, such as eyelid position or eye prominence, may remain and may require further management.

TED can affect more than vision alone. Changes in appearance, discomfort, and challenges with daily activities can have an emotional and social impact.

People living with TED may experience difficulties with:

• Reading
• Working with screens
• Driving
• Managing eye discomfort
• Confidence and wellbeing

Supportive approaches may include:

• Access to specialist eye care
• Mental health and wellbeing support
• Patient communities
• Practical adaptations for daily activities