Eyes, bulging

Considerations:
Prominent, but not bulging, eyes may be a family characteristic. Bulging eyes should receive prompt attention. Bulging of a single eye, especially in children, is a very significant sign and should be evaluated immediately.

Hyperthyroidism ( Graves' disease ) is probably the most common cause of bulging eyes (exophthalmos). With this condition, the eyes don't blink very often and seem to have a staring quality. The eye changes develop slowly and family members may not notice until the condition is relatively advanced. Photographs often draw attention to the bulging when it may have gone unnoticed otherwise.

Common Causes:

Note: There may be other causes bulging eyes. This list is not all inclusive, and the causes are not presented in order of likelihood. The causes of this symptom can include unlikely diseases and medications. Furthermore, the causes may vary based on age and gender of the affected person, as well as on the specific characteristics of the symptom such as exact location, quality, time course, aggravating factors, relieving factors, and associated complaints. Use the Symptom Analysis option to explore the possible explanations for bulging eyes, occurring alone or in combination with other problems.

Home Care:
The underlying cause of this symptom needs to be treated by a health care provider. Because bulging eyes can cause a person to be self-conscious, emotional support is important.

Call Your Healthcare Provider If:

  • there are bulging eyes and the cause has not yet been diagnosed.
  • bulging eyes are accompanied by other symptoms.



What to Expect:
A history will be obtained and physical examination performed.

Medical history questions may include:

  • Are both eyes affected?
  • When did you first notice bulging eyes?
  • Is it getting worse?
  • What other symptoms are present?

Diagnostic tests:
A slit-lamp examination may be ordered.
Blood testing for thyroid disease may be performed.

Intervention:
Artificial tears may be given to lubricate the eye(s). Other treatments will depend on the cause.

After seeing your health care provider:
You may want to add a diagnosis related to bulging eyes to your personal medical record.


Exophthalmus: Exophthalmus is a condition in which the eyes protrude forward in the sockets. The white sclera can be seen above or below the iris (normally the upper and lower lids cover the top and bottom edge of the iris). This condition is associated with hyperthyroidism.



When there are excess levels of thyroid hormone in the blood (hyperthyroidism) various symptoms may be present, including protruding eyes (exophthalmus).