What should you know about exophthalmic goitre treatment?

Exophthalmic goitre treatment aims to control thyroid hormone levels, reduce symptoms and protect the eyes when they are affected. The plan depends on blood tests, swelling, eye findings, medicines and overall health.

Exophthalmic goitre commonly refers to thyroid enlargement with hyperthyroidism and prominent or irritated eyes. Symptoms may include a fast heartbeat, tremor, heat intolerance, dryness, swelling or double vision. Not every goitre has the same cause; hypothyroidism and other thyroid disorders can also enlarge the gland.

Begin with a GP consultation or specialist review. A thyroid function test helps show whether hormone levels are high, low or within range. Treatment may involve medicine, symptom control, radioiodine or surgery. Eye care can include lubricating drops, stopping smoking and specialist review when vision is threatened.

Seek urgent help for sudden vision loss, new double vision, severe eye pain, inability to close an eye, chest pain, fainting or a very fast irregular heartbeat. Contact your clinician promptly if swelling grows quickly or swallowing or breathing becomes difficult.

Ask which cause is suspected, how often tests are needed, whether your eyes need specialist assessment, and how treatment could affect future thyroid function.