Protruding eyes are characteristic of graves’ disease, or an overactive thyroid gland. Other symptoms of graves’ disease may include weight loss, rapid heart beat, inability to tolerate heat, difficulty sleeping and jitteriness.

Symptoms affecting the eyes are a feeling of pressure around the eyes, blurred or double vision, excess tear production and retraction of the eyelids. With graves’ disease, the more serious dilemma is the thyroid gland. If the eye symptoms are mild, artificial tears may be the only treatment needed. Protective glasses that shield the eyes from dirt and wind may be advised. Occasionally, surgery to reposition the eye muscles or to allow the eyeball to settle further back in its socket may be necessary. Contact an optometrist or ophthalmologist for more information.