Graves' disease and the associated eye changes (thyroid related eye disease-TED) can be frustrating for affected patients. The eye symptoms usually occur around the same time as the onset of the thyroid dysfunction. Many patients with thyroid abnormalities will only be affected mildly by the eye disease. Approximately 5% of the patients with TED will have severe disease that can cause vision loss and blindness. Although the incidence of eye disease associated with thyroid dysfunction is higher and more severe in smokers, there is no way to predict which patients will be affected. (Read More)