Can thyroid problems affect the eyes?

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In some patients who suffer from thyroid problems the eyes can be affected in different ways. Most commonly, patients have discomfort and pain around the eyes which may or may not be accompanied by swelling. In some patients the eyes are more prominent and this can also lead to the eyelids to be more open and give a typical staring look. As a consequence patients may have difficulty with closing their eyes. In very severe cases there can be pressure on the nerve of the eye causing visual loss.

The eye problems tend to last a certain period of time in phases up to 2 years. After this period, if the problems persist then a range of corrective procedures may be considered.