Alternatives to Taping Eyes for Managing Thyroid Eye Disease Symptoms Overnight

Understanding Thyroid Eye Disease

Thyroid eye disease, also known as Graves' ophthalmopathy, is an autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation and swelling of the tissues around the eyes. It often occurs in people who have hyperthyroidism or Graves' disease. The disease usually affects both eyes, although one eye may be more severely affected than the other.

As thyroid eye disease progresses, it can cause various eye symptoms like eye pain, light sensitivity, excessive tearing, double vision, swelling around the eyes, bulging eyes (exophthalmos) and even vision loss. The inflammation puts pressure on the muscles that control eye movement and can cause the eyes to bulge outwards, giving a staring appearance.

Why Taping Eyes is Done

Some people with thyroid eye disease tape their eyes closed at night as a way to prevent corneal exposure. This is done because the condition can cause the eyes to not fully close when blinking or sleeping. The exposed portion of the eyes can dry out, leading to pain, ulcers and even sight loss.

Taping the eyes shut ensures the eyelids are closed and protects the cornea by preventing it from drying out. It provides moisture to the eye overnight and minimizes friction between the eyelid and eye surface. However, taping the eyes can have disadvantages.

Drawbacks of Taping Eyes

While taping eyes helps protect them, it can have some disadvantages:

• It may lead to irritation or allergies from the tape adhesive.
• Removing the tape can be uncomfortable.
• It can increase tear evaporation leading to dry eyes.
• The tape may harbor bacteria if reused.
• It can restrict eye movements during sleep.

Taping the eyes is usually a short term solution. There are other safer and more comfortable alternatives to taping eyes for managing thyroid eye disease symptoms overnight.

Alternatives to Taping Eyes at Night

Here are some alternatives to taping eyes that can provide relief overnight without the drawbacks of adhesive tape:

1. Use Lubricating Eye Ointments

Lubricating eye ointments like Lacrilube, Refresh PM and Soothe XP provide thick, gel-like lubrication to protect the eyes. They help prevent dryness and friction between eyelids and cornea. The ointment forms a temporary protective film over the eye surface and can last through the night.

Apply a small amount along the eyelid margins before sleep. It keeps the eyes moisturized while allowing eye movements. Avoid petroleum-based ointments which can disturb the tear film. Check with an ophthalmologist to recommend suitable overnight lubricating ointments.

2. Wear Moisture Chamber Eyeglasses

Specialized moisture chamber glasses are designed to protect the eyes from drying out. They have foam spacers and side shields that enclose the eyes in a humid environment. This prevents tear evaporation and lubricates the ocular surface overnight.

They are similar to goggles but lighter. The cushions rest gently on the skin without compressing the eyes. This allows eye movements during sleep. Moisture chamber glasses offer a non-invasive alternative to taping eyes.

3. Apply Warm Compresses

Applying warm, moist heat compresses can help soothe thyroid eye disease symptoms like dryness, grittiness and pain. The compress helps loosen crusting on the eyelids and softens oil secretions blocking meibomian glands.

Soak a clean washcloth in warm water. Wring out excess water and place the warm cloth on closed eyelids for 5-10 minutes. Reheat the cloth when it cools. Doing this before bedtime brings relief and comfort overnight.

4. Use Sleep Masks

Wearing padded sleep masks can provide gentle pressure on the eyes to keep the eyelids closed at night. Look for masks made from soft, breathable fabric that wont irritate the skin. Some have straps that allow adjustment for a comfortable fit.

Sleep masks block out light to prevent dryness from evaporation. They also shield the eyes against rubbing on pillows or bedding materials while asleep. Select masks with contoured cups that dont press on the eyes.

5. Keep Humidity High

Using a humidifier in the bedroom during sleep can relieve dry, irritated eyes. The moist air prevents tear evaporation and lubricates the eye surface overnight. This reduces friction between eyelids and cornea.

Clean humidifiers regularly to prevent mold growth. Measure bedroom humidity to keep it between 40-50%. Excessive humidity can trigger allergies and cause discomfort. Drink enough water to stay hydrated as this helps tear production.

6. Adjust Sleep Position

Sleeping on your back allows the eyelids to fully close and protects the cornea. Avoid sleeping on the side as the protruding eyes may rub against the pillow. Place an extra pillow under the head for support if needed.

Keep the head elevated to minimize gravitational pull on eyelids. Raising the head of the bed by a few inches can open up eyelid closure. Use foam wedges or bed raisers to create an incline if necessary.

7. Take Prescription Medication

Ophthalmologists may prescribe eye drops for overnight use in specific cases. Lubricating drops containing polymers or gels can coat the eyes and keep them moist overnight. Some drops combine hydrating agents with ointments for extended effect.

Steroid eye drops can reduce inflammation and antihistamine drops control allergic reactions causing irritation. But prolonged use has side effects, hence follow medical guidance. Oral medications may also be prescribed to control rapid thyroid stimulation of ocular muscles.

When to See a Doctor

See an ophthalmologist immediately if you experience:

• Sudden or complete loss of vision
• Extreme pain in or around the eyes
• Double vision that persists for days
• Redness, discharge or excessive tearing
• Swelling that worsens around the eyes

Severe thyroid eye disease may warrant treatments like eye muscle or eyelid surgery, orbital radiation therapy or steroid injections. Follow up regularly for monitoring and timely treatment.

Coping Tips for Thyroid Eye Disease

Use Sunglasses Outdoors

Wearing wraparound sunglasses blocks UV rays and breezes that can dry eyes. Go for polarized lenses with anti-glare coatings. Large frames provide additional protection.

Adopt Good Eyelid Hygiene

Gently clean eyelids with diluted baby shampoo on cotton pads daily. Rinse with water and apply warm, moist compresses. Avoid rubbing eyes vigorously.

Adjust Computer and Screens

Adjust brightness, increase text size and use large fonts to reduce eye strain. Position screens below eye level and 20 inches away. Follow the 20-20-20 rule - look away every 20 minutes for 20 seconds at 20 feet distance.

Control Indoor Allergens

Minimize indoor allergens like dust mites, molds and pet dander which can aggravate eye problems. Change air conditioner filters regularly. Vacuum and damp dust surfaces frequently.

Quit Smoking and Manage Stress

Smoking worsens thyroid eye disease. Practice relaxation techniques and manage stress levels. Get emotional support from patient organizations and support groups.

Adopt Good Posture

Avoid leaning or bending forward excessively to prevent pressure on the eyes. Use spectacles with corrective lenses instead of contact lenses.

Conclusion

Taping eyes closed is an emergency method to protect vision in severe cases overnight. For regular overnight protection, try safer alternatives like ointments, moisture glasses, compresses, sleep masks and good eyelid hygiene. Modifying sleep position, humidity and prescription drops can also bring relief.

Consult an ophthalmologist to find the right solution for your individual condition. With appropriate treatment and supportive care, most symptoms of thyroid eye disease gradually resolve over time. Implementing protective measures, both overnight and during the day, can help manage this condition.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.