Dark glasses usually ensure comfort. But if sensitivity to light develops suddenly, it may indicate disease and should be investigated by a doctor. Many people who have blind spots, called negative scotomas, are unaware of their presence. However, blind spots warrant full medical investigation, as they may result from hemorrhage or optic nerve damage. An overactive thyroid may cause one or both eyes to protrude gradually, over a period of a month or more.
Tumors also cause slow protrusion.
Sudden protrusion of one eye usually signals a hemorrhage or inflammation in the orbit behind the eye. Nystagmus is a manifestation of brain dysfunction such as multiple sclerosis, use of drugs like alcohol or barbiturates, or other substances. Medical treatment for the underlying condition is essential. Double vision, or diplopia, results when the brain cannot resolve the two pictures it receives from both eyes. Both trabismus and ocular muscle palsy can be caused by serious ocular or neurologic disease, such as diabetes or aneurysm.