Guide To The Causes Of Bulging Eyes

Orbital Cellulitis

Orbital cellulitis occurs when the soft tissues inside the eye socket become infected. If the infection isn't treated, it can cause permanent loss of vision and potentially life-threatening complications. The condition can occur in individuals of any age, but it is most common in young children. This infection develops behind the thin membrane covering the front of the eyeball, otherwise known as the orbital septum. When infections occur in front of the orbital septum instead of behind it, the condition is called periorbital or preseptal cellulitis. As the infection progresses, it can cause serious inflammation that pushes the eyeball from its usual place in the socket. The most common symptoms are swelling, pain, and protrusion of the eyes. Patients might also experience symptoms that often accompany infections like loss of appetite, fatigue, and a fever. Their eye may appear red and swollen, and it might be difficult to open it as well.

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Eye Injury

An eye injury can sometimes lead to bulging eyes, though the exact type of injury can vary widely from case to case. Similarly, the severity of the bulging and the prognosis will also vary. Bulging is sometimes caused by bleeding into the space behind the eyes, and the increased pressure leads the eyes to protrude forward. There are several common eye injuries, some of which may lead to bulging, some of which might not. If individuals suspect they have an infection or internal bleeding caused by an injury, they should see a doctor right away. If one eye suddenly bulges, this could be a sign of internal bleeding, and it requires immediate emergency medical treatment. Some eye injuries, particularly deep puncture wounds, need to be treated with emergency surgery to make sure patients don't suffer permanent vision loss. Some injuries are less severe, though, such as minor scratches. After having the injury evaluated by an eye doctor to make sure it isn't serious, patients will just need to monitor it to make sure they don't develop an infection.

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