Understanding Hypothyroidism and Puffy Eyes
Hypothyroidism, also known as underactive thyroid, is a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones. Thyroid hormones play a major role in regulating metabolism, heart rate, body temperature, and even mood. When thyroid hormone levels are low, it can lead to a variety of symptoms. One common symptom is puffy eyes.
What Causes Puffy Eyes with Hypothyroidism?
There are a few reasons why hypothyroidism often leads to puffy eyes or eye bags:
- Fluid retention - Low thyroid hormone levels can cause the body to retain more fluid, leading to swelling around the eyes.
- Fatigue - Hypothyroidism makes people feel tired all the time. This can cause fluid to pool underneath the eyes, causing puffiness.
- Skin changes - The skin can become thinner and drier, making bags under the eyes more noticeable.
Pictures of Puffy Eyes with Hypothyroidism
Many people with hypothyroidism notice changes around their eyes. Here are some pictures of how puffy eyes can look with hypothyroidism:
This woman has very large, baggy sections under both eyes due to fluid retention and fatigue from hypothyroidism. Her eyes look swollen and irritated.
In this close up you can see how the skin is stretched due to fluid accumulated underneath the eyes. There is reddish discoloration due to irritation.
This person has dark undereye circles as well as puffiness around their eyes. Their eyelids may be swollen as well.
What Can Be Done About Puffy Eyes and Hypothyroidism?
The good news is there are things you can do to help with puffy eyes caused by hypothyroidism:
1. Treat The Underlying Thyroid Problem
The best thing you can do is get treatment for the hypothyroidism itself. This means taking thyroid hormone replacement medication. Getting your hormone levels regulated can help decrease fluid retention and fatigue.
2. Use Cold Compresses
Applying something cold around the eyes can help reduce puffiness and soothe irritation. Try cucumber slices, gel eye masks, wet tea bags, or even just a washcloth soaked in cold water.
3. Try Eye Creams
Look for eye creams specifically formulated for puffiness and bags. Make sure to choose products that contain ingredients like vitamin K, vitamin C, caffeine, green tea extract, or retinol. Use gently around the eye area.
4. Use Humidifiers
Since hypothyroidism can cause dry skin, using indoor humidifiers can bring moisture to the area around your eyes. This helps improve the look of fine lines and puffiness.
5. Drink More Water
Staying hydrated flushes out excess fluids and prevents buildup around the eyes. Herbal teas also count! Aim for at least 64 ounces per day.
6. Reduce Salt Intake
Eating too much salt causes fluid retention all over, including around the eyes. Cut back on salty snacks, canned items, and condiments.
7. Sleep with Your Head Elevated
Fluid tends to pool underneath your eyes at night while lying down. Use an extra pillow to keep your head raised to prevent puffiness while sleeping.
8. Watch Caffeine Intake
Caffeine causes blood vessels to dilate temporarily before causing dehydration. This can lead to pronounced bags under the eyes later on. Limit coffee, tea, soda and chocolate.
9. Take Breaks from Screens
Staring at screens all day can strain your eyes. Take regular breaks to walk around, stretch and give your eyes a reset. This helps with multiple symptoms.
When to See Your Doctor
If at-home remedies don’t help within a few weeks, puffy eyes may be a sign that additional medical treatment is needed. Contact your doctor right away if you also have:
- Bulging eyes
- Vision changes
- Eye pain
- Headaches
- Weight gain
These can indicate worsening hypothyroidism or other conditions requiring urgent evaluation. Thyroid issues often gradually progress, so early intervention is key.
The Bottom Line
Hypothyroidism frequently causes puffy eyes due to fluid retention, fatigue and skin changes. Thankfully, there are many remedies that can improve puffiness for more vibrant eyes. Just remember to consult your doctor if symptoms are severe or getting worse. With proper thyroid care and management, you can get puffy eyes relieved!
FAQs
Can hypothyroidism cause permanent eye damage?
In most cases, puffy eyes caused by hypothyroidism are temporary and clear up once hormone levels are corrected. However, if severe swelling presses on the optic nerves and blood vessels behind the eyes, permanent vision loss is possible over time. That’s why proper treatment is crucial.
Why do my eyelids look swollen?
Fluid accumulation caused by low thyroid hormone stretches the skin around the eyes, including the delicate skin of the eyelids. Gravity while sleeping can further pool fluids here. Using cold compresses can quickly reduce swollen eyelid appearance.
Are eye bags ever normal?
Mild bags under the eyes are common as we age or feel fatigued. But with hypothyroidism, severe, persistent bags plus symptoms like dry eyes and vision issues warrant medical attention for thyroid testing and treatment.
Can I prevent eye puffiness from returning?
Staying on your thyroid medication daily as prescribed is crucial. This maintains normal hormone levels so your body can better regulate fluid balance. Establishing healthy lifestyle habits like a low-salt diet, skin care routine and adequate sleep also helps prevent recurrence of eye puffiness.
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.
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