chemosis, eye lid swelling

[marieo298]

                  I have had chemosis in both eyes and swelling around my eyes for over two months. I have been
         using prescription eye drops, lubricating drops and FNL ointment for swelling with little improvement. I
         feel failrly certain that these problems are related to my thyroid. I was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism
         last year. All docs say this is from allergies which I have never had. I saw a thyroid eye specialist who said
         I have no signs of thyroid eye disease. I had blurred vision on and off before the swelling began for about a
         month. Should I seek a second opinion and maybe a CT or MRI of eyes? Any advice would help. Thanks

[Michael J Kutryb, MD]

I'm not sure that a CT or MRI is indicated.  It could be a side effect of medications, particularly steroids like prednisone and some blood pressure pills.  I have also seen this sort of thing in smokers and overweight individuals with or without some allergies thrown in.  Lid margin disease is also a common finding.  The main thing for your opthalmologist is to rule out anything bad or harmful, then take some steps to at least offer some sort of help for this chronic problem.

MJK MD

[marieo298]

       Dr. Kutryb, Thanks so much for your response. I was taking prednisone for an ear
       problem shortly before the swelling began. I also take atenolol, I'm not sure if that
       would be classified as a blood pressure medicine, but I will discuss these things
       with my doctor.      Thanks again.