Bulging eyes (exophthalmos)

Bulging eyes (exophthalmos) could be a sign of a problem with your thyroid gland. It can be treated, but get it checked quickly as your vision can be affected.

You may have bulging eyes if:

  • your eyes seem to be sticking out more than usual
  • you can see less of your upper eye lids (your eyes might look like they’re open very wide)
  • you can see more of the whites of your eyes

Any other symptoms you have will depend on what's causing your eyes to stick out, but could include:

  • pain or problems closing your eyes or moving them around
  • dry eyes or feeling like there’s dirt or grit in them
  • your eyes hurt when looking at bright lights

A common cause of bulging eyes is an overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism).

This is where the thyroid gland (a small gland in your neck), produces too much of the thyroid hormones.

Less common causes of bulging eyes include:

  • an infection or injury around or behind your eyes
  • bleeding behind the eyes or problems with blood vessels behind the eyes
  • tumours, including those caused by neuroblastoma and some soft tissue sarcomas

Ask for an urgent GP appointment or get help from NHS 111 if:

  • you have a bulging eye or bulging eyes

You can call 111 or get help from 111 online.

Call 999 or go to A&E immediately if:

  • your child's eye or eyes have just started bulging
  • your eye or eyes have started bulging and you have any changes to your vision, like wavy lines, flashing or loss of vision
  • your eye or eyes have started bulging and you have a severe headache and feel sick
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Treatment for bulging eyes depends on the cause.

You may need:

  • eye drops
  • medicine (if the bulging is caused by an infection, swelling, or a problem with your thyroid gland)
  • surgery to correct any bulging that does not go away after other treatments

If the cause is not clear, a GP may refer you to a specialist and you may need further tests.

If you have bulging eyes, there are things you can do to help ease your symptoms.

Do

  • use pillows to keep your head raised up when lying down

  • wear sunglasses if your eyes are sensitive in bright light

  • if you wear contact lenses, take them out and wear glasses to rest your eyes

Don't

  • do not smoke or drink too much alcohol

  • do not spend too long in smoky, dry or dusty places

  • do not spend too long in air conditioned or heated rooms