Introduction
Thyroid disorders, such as hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, affect not only metabolism but also have significant ophthalmic manifestations.
One of the most frequent yet often overlooked problems is chalazion, which appears more often in thyroid patients due to changes in Meibomian gland function and the tear film.
Why Thyroid Disorders Increase the Risk of Chalazion
- Hormonal Imbalances
Thyroid hormone dysregulation alters the quality of meibomian gland secretions → thicker meibum → gland obstruction → chalazion.
- Dry Eyes
Hyperthyroidism, especially in Graves’ Ophthalmopathy, leads to severe dry eye, destabilizing the tear film and promoting inflammation.
- Inflammation & Gland Dysfunction
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is linked to chronic inflammation and higher risk of meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD).
- Immune Mechanisms
Thyroid disorders are often autoimmune → higher risk of chronic blepharitis and Demodex infestation, both of which contribute to chalazion.
Symptoms
- Persistent chalazia that do not resolve easily.
- Frequent recurrences.
- Dry eye, burning, foreign body sensation.
- Redness and blepharitis.
Statistics & Clinical Data
- Up to 40% of patients with Graves’ Ophthalmopathy present with dry eye and blepharitis.
- In Hashimoto’s disease, the risk of MGD is twice as high.
- Hypothyroidism is associated with thicker meibum, increasing the likelihood of gland obstruction.
Complications
- Multiple chalazia.
- Recurrent blepharitis.
- Secondary infections.
- Chronic cosmetic & functional issues.
The Dermophthalmology Solution
OphthalmogenEye10 – Single-Use Heat Compresses
- Sterile, safe for daily use.
- Provides steady 40°C heat for 20 minutes → melts thick meibum.
- Relieves dry eye & heaviness.
OphthalmogenGel – Massage & Anti-Demodex Action
- Gentle massage after Eye10.
- Controls inflammation, hydrates, reduces bacterial & Demodex load.
Ophthalmogen Spray – Daily Hydration & Protection
- Antimicrobial and hydrating effect.
- Can be applied several times a day, even over makeup.
- Supports dry eye control.
- Safe even over makeup.
Supportive Care
Artificial Tears
- Visionlux Plus DUO (υαλουρονικό + B12).
- Hylo-Comod.
- Systane
- Thealoz Duo.
- Navitae Plus (hyaluronic acid + vitamins A & E).
Omega-3 &Eye Vitamin Supplements
- Allvita Eyes, MacuShield, MacuSave.
- Solgar, Minami, Lamberts Omega-3.
- Vitamin D3, Vitamin C + Zinc, Selenium.
Suggested Ophthalmogen Protocol for Thyroid Patients
- Morning: Naviblef + Ophthalmogen Spray + artificial tears.
- Noon/Afternoon: Eye10 (20’) → OphthalmogenGel with gentle massage.
- All day: Repeat sprays with Ophthalmogen Spray + artificial tears.
- Supplements: Omega-3 + immune supportC, D3, Zinc, Selenium).
Conclusion
Thyroid disorders, especially Graves’ Ophthalmopathy and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, significantly increase the risk of chalazion due to dry eye, MGD, inflammation, and immune mechanisms.
Dermophthalmology offers a comprehensive solution with the Ophthalmogen line (Eye10, Gel, Spray, Naviblef), combined with artificial tears, Omega-3, and vitamins.
For thyroid patients, daily eyelid care is not just an option – it is essential for protecting vision and maintaining quality of life.
A new medical category focusing on the connection between skin and eyes: Dermophthalmology. See more at www.dermophthalmology.com.
