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Eyes - bulging



Graves' disease
Graves' disease
Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism
Periorbital cellulitis
Periorbital cellulitis


Eyes - bulging

Alternative Names:

Protruding eyes; Exophthalmos; Proptosis; Bulging eyes
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 health care provider if:
  • You have bulging eyes and the cause has not yet been diagnosed.
  • Bulging eyes are accompanied by other symptoms.

What to expect at your health care provider's office:


The health care provider will obtain your medical history and will perform a physical examination.

Medical history questions may include the following:

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

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

Artificial tears may be given to lubricate the eye. Other treatments will depend on the cause.




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