Page 47 - Robeson Living Summer 2020

and actually frightened others as my face was transformed by informed and take action. For example, a symptom tracker can
TED. After years of living alone with this rare autoimmune help monitor disease progression and alert your doctor to any
disorder, I discovered a community of others with TED. Con- changes.
necting with the right specialist and other TED patients was
life-changing in the absolute best ways.” It is important to be your own best advocate and speak up for
the care you deserve. Tips for getting the right care include
Getting the Care You Need not downplaying symptoms when at the doctor’s office, ask-
If you have Graves’ disease and suspect you might have TED or ing questions to ensure all treatment options are presented, and
notice changes in your eyes, you should contact an eye special- bringing a friend or loved one along to provide support and
ist who has experience treating TED. These include ophthal- help take notes during the appointment.
mologists, neuro-ophthalmologists and oculoplastic surgeons.
After receiving a TED diagnosis, resources can be used to stay To learn more about TED and access resources like a symptom
tracker and the TED Specialist Finder, visit ThyroidEyes.com.