Eyes - Bulging

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Overview & Considerations

Prominent eyes may be a family characteristic. However, prominent eyes are not the same as bulging eyes. Bulging eyes should receive prompt attention.

Bulging of a single eye, especially in a child, is a very significant sign and should be evaluated immediately.

Hyperthyroidism (particularly Graves' disease) is probably the most common cause of bulging eyes. With this condition, the eyes don't blink very often and seem to have a staring quality.

Generally, there should be no visible white between the top of the iris (the colored part of the eye) and the upper eyelid. Seeing white in this area is usually a good indication that the eye bulging is abnormal.

Because eye changes develop slowly, family members may not notice until the condition is relatively advanced. Photographs often draw attention to the bulging when it may have gone unnoticed previously.