Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.
1
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911
Seek emergency care now if bulging begins suddenly with loss of vision, a major reduction in vision, or a serious eye or head injury.
Sudden severe eye pain, especially with vomiting or a severe headache, also needs emergency assessment.
Other emergency signs, for anyone
Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
2
Is any of this happening?
Be seen today
Arrange urgent same-day care if new bulging occurs with:
Fever, redness, or swelling around the eye
Pain when moving the eye
New double vision or difficulty moving the eye
Faded colours or blurred vision
Inability to close the eyelids over the eye
Rapidly increasing swelling or bulging
New eye bulging in a child should be assessed promptly, especially if the child is unwell or has fever or swollen eyelids.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Book a routine appointment if the change is gradual but persistent, increasing, or affects only one eye.
Also seek advice for ongoing dryness, irritation, double vision, or thyroid symptoms such as unexplained weight change, a racing heartbeat, shaking, or unusual sensitivity to heat or cold.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Bulging eyes. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.