Exotropia is a type of strabismus (misaligned eyes) in which one or both of the eyes turn outward. The condition can begin as early as the first few months of life or any time during childhood. Exotropia occurs when there's an imbalance in eye muscles or when there's a signaling issue between the brain and eye. Sometimes a health condition, like cataracts or stroke, can cause this to occur. The condition may also be inherited.