Eye protrusion proptosis occurs when one or both eyes appear to bulge forwards. This can arise from problems behind the eye.
Common causes of eye bulging
Thyroid eye disease is a frequent cause, where swelling and muscle enlargement push the eye forwards. Other conditions can also crowd the orbit.
- Inflammation of orbital tissues or muscles
- Benign or malignant tumours behind the eye
- Vascular problems such as carotid-cavernous fistulas
- Severe sinus disease spreading into the orbit
When proptosis is an emergency
Sudden bulging with pain, double vision, or vision loss can threaten sight. Immediate assessment is essential.
- Rapid-onset swelling after trauma may indicate orbital haemorrhage
- Fever and redness raise concern for orbital cellulitis infection
- Optic nerve compression can cause permanent damage
- Specialist imaging scans help identify the underlying cause
