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Conditions We Treat: Graves' Orbitopathy
Graves' orbitopathy is a condition associated with swelling of the tissue in the orbit, creating bulging of the eyes. It is associated with Graves’ disease, a condition that causes over activity of the thyroid gland (the gland that sets the rate of metabolism in the body). The diagnosis of Graves’ orbitopathy is made by an ophthalmologist.
Graves' Orbitopathy: What You Need to Know

- Symptoms of Graves' orbitopathy include swelling in the orbital tissues, eye pain when looking up or down, dry and itchy eyes and double vision.
- In some severe cases, patients with Graves' orbitopathy will temporarily or permanently lose vision.
- Graves' orbitopathy is usually caused by Graves’ disease, but it can also be associated with Hashimoto's thyroiditis.
- The diagnostic process will include a thorough physical examination, nasal endoscopy and CT scans if necessary.
- Our experts in the Sinus Center collaborate with their colleagues at the Wilmer Eye Institute to surgically manage patients with exophthalmos due to Graves' disease. The endoscopic approach allows our surgeons to safely and effectively reduce pressure on the eye and restore it to a more natural position.
Patient Resources
Learn more about how we treat Graves' Orbitopathy with orbital decompression.
Why Choose Johns Hopkins for Graves' Orbitopathy?

Our Physicians
Rely on the expertise of our physicians to treat Graves' Orbitopathy.

Our Patient Education
Our Sinus Center team recorded online seminars and answers to frequently asked questions to keep our patients informed about their condition and treatment options.