Bulging or sunken eyes may develop for vastly different reasons. Bulging eyes, also referred to as proptosis, is a condition affecting the appearance of a person’s eyes. The eyes will seemingly protrude outward, bulging. The cause of bulging eyes ranges from eye infections to disorders such as Graves’ disease. Additionally, tumors can sometimes be the cause of bulging eyes.
Individuals with sunken eyes may experience double or blurred vision. Sunken eyes, also known as enophthalmos, are caused by cancer, vascular issues, or scleroderma. If you experience bulging or sunken eyes and are a candidate for surgery, doctors may recommend orbital surgery. From lymphoma to vascular lesions, types of orbital tumors can occur. If so, orbital surgery may be necessary.
The Difference Between Bulging and Sunken Eyes
There are several differences between bulging and sunken eyes. When a person suffers from bulging eyes, the white part of the eye becomes more visible. This is due, in part, to the eyeballs pushing forward from their sockets. Those with bulging eyes may also experience specific symptoms, such as blurred or double vision, sensitivity to light, dry eyes, or a gritty sensation when moving the eye.
Those with sunken eyes may notice a dark shadow over the lower eyelid. Sunken eyes can also lead to dark circles, hollowing, and a tired look. With sunken eyes, thin skin under the eyes results in a fatigued appearance.
The Causes of Bulging Eyes
There are several reasons for bulging eyes. Bulging eyes can occur from underlying causes such as thyroid eye disease.
Some of the causes of bulging eyes include:
- Autoimmune diseases
- Graves’ disease
- Eye socket infections
- Eye injuries
- Hyperthyroidism
- Inflammatory disorders
- Vascular anomalies
When the eyeball protrudes, it can cause other problems, leading to pain and restricted eye movement. If your bulging eyes did not occur from any of the above, you may be suffering from an orbital tumor. Many reasons, including genetics, can cause orbital tumors.
The types of orbital tumors consist of:
- Lymphoma
- Vascular lesions
- Cavernous hemangioma
- Orbital mucoceles
- Meningioma
Once you speak with a doctor who can examine your eyes, tests can be taken to determine the cause of your bulging eyes.
The Causes of Sunken Eyes
Sunken eyes can occur for several reasons. Whether you have experienced trauma or an infection. Some of the causes of sunken eyes include:
- Congenital fibrosis syndrome
- Lack of sleep
- Bone fractures surrounding the eyes
- Glaucoma
- Bone changes due to aging
- Dehydration
- Cancer
- Silent sinus syndrome (SSS), which weakens the orbital floor
- Vascular problems
- Weakened muscles due to aging
- Allergies
- Long-term effects of radiation therapy
- Genetics
- Scleroderma, an autoimmune condition
- Eye trauma
- Changes in the size of the eye
- Aging
- Dramatic weight loss
- Sinus infections
Some can make lifestyle changes, such as refraining from smoking or being mindful of sun exposure when outdoors. If you have noticed dark circles under your eyes, reach out to a doctor to determine your treatment options.
Find Eye Treatment
If you have bulging or sunken eyes, see an optometrist right away. A professional in the field can provide a consultation to assess your eye health and treatment options. At Oasis Eye, we provide a wide range of treatment options at our eye care clinic. Additionally, we can help provide tools that increase vision.
Contact us today to learn more about our treatment plans. Our eyelid surgeon has extensive experience treating patients with numerous eye conditions. Reach out to speak with one of our team members who can assist you in finding the eye treatment that is right for you.