But if protruding eyes develop suddenly, or begin to get worse, it could be a sign of another problem. When both eyes are affected, an overactive thyroid is probably the cause. Your thyroid gland, located in the neck, secretes hormones that control your metabolism.
Eye muscles can weaken, giving the person double vision or crossed eyes.
Though the thyroid condition can be treated, this may not correct the related eye problems. Special exercises or even surgery may be required. When the protruding is present in only one eye, it could be a result of infection, inflammation, injury, or possibly a tumor. Because a protruding eye or eyes can be a symptom of a serious underlying condition, it's a good idea to have it checked out by an optometrist or ophthalmologist. The Knoxville News-Sentinel strictly as a service to the general community.