Orbit and neuro-ophthalmology sits at the crossroads of the eye and nervous system — from swelling or growths in the eye socket to problems in the nerves controlling eye movement and vision. Because these can be an early sign of thyroid disease, autoimmune disease, or a brain-related problem, care is often coordinated with endocrinologists, neurologists, or radiologists.
Conditions we treat
- Thyroid eye disease — autoimmune swelling around the eye, often linked to overactive thyroid; can cause bulging, eyelid retraction, double vision, and optic nerve pressure
- Orbital tumours and orbital swelling
- Optic neuritis — inflammation of the optic nerve, sometimes an early MS sign
- Double vision (diplopia) from nerve problems, including cranial nerve palsy or myasthenia gravis
- Ptosis (drooping eyelid) — evaluated to rule out an underlying neurological cause
Diagnosis & technology
- Detailed neuro-ophthalmic exam of eye movements, pupil responses, and eyelid position
- Visual field testing
- OCT of the optic nerve and nerve fibre layer
- MRI or CT imaging when a tumour, inflammation, or nerve compression is suspected
- Thyroid and autoimmune blood tests
Treatment options
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Medical management of thyroid eye disease alongside the treating physician
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Steroids and immune-modulating treatment for optic neuritis and inflammatory conditions
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Orbital decompression, eyelid, or strabismus surgery once inflammation is controlled
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Prism glasses or an eye patch for double vision, with surgery if it persists
When to seek care
Seek prompt evaluation for sudden double vision, a drooping eyelid, sudden blurred/dimmed vision with pain on eye movement, or noticeable bulging, swelling, or redness around one or both eyes.
Frequently asked questions
Why would an eye doctor check for a thyroid problem?
Thyroid eye disease is a common cause of bulging eyes and eyelid swelling, and eye symptoms sometimes appear before a thyroid diagnosis.
Is double vision always serious?
It should always be evaluated — it can have a straightforward cause or signal a nerve, muscle, or neurological condition.
Will I need a brain scan?
Not always — imaging is used selectively, mainly when the exam suggests a growth, compression, or a cause best seen on a scan.
Ready to see us?
Call the appointment desk, or book online — we will confirm your time by phone.
Sources consulted: Mayo Clinic — Optic Neuritis , North American Neuro-Ophthalmology Society — Optic Neuritis . General medical information — not a substitute for professional diagnosis. Content pending final medical review by BSEH doctors before publish.
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