Hypothyroidism happens when the thyroid gland doesn't make enough thyroid hormone. This condition also is called underactive thyroid. Hypothyroidism usually isn't linked to eye disease. In severe cases, however, hypothyroidism may cause swelling around the eyes. It also may cause a loss of hair in the outer part of the eyebrows.

Eye problems are much more common in people who have hyperthyroidism, a condition also called overactive thyroid. That's particularly true for those who have Graves' disease, the most common form of hyperthyroidism. An eye condition known as thyroid eye disease — also called Graves' ophthalmopathy — may develop in these individuals. It can lead to eye soreness, protruding eyeballs and vision changes.