Symptoms & urgent help
Popeye: one or both eyes protruding
Popeye, or exophthalmia, is a description. Trauma is one possible cause; it does not automatically mean a bacterial outbreak.
One eye or both?
Record whether one or both eyes have changed, whether the surface is damaged, and how the fish behaves. Telescope varieties need comparison with their normal anatomy.
Reduce collision hazards
Check for sharp objects, chasing and narrow gaps. Avoid repeated netting or trying to press an eye back into place.
Seek assessment
A vet can investigate injury or another underlying problem. Rapid swelling, loss of appetite or other illness deserves prompt attention.
Sources & further reading
Original WakeyKoi wording, informed by the references below. Linked clinical resources explain the evidence and their scope; they have not reviewed or endorsed this website.
Related guides
Educational guidance cannot diagnose an individual fish. Breathing distress, severe injury or unexplained losses need prompt professional assessment.