Other causes of ectropion are scarring, burns, trauma (called cicatricial ectropion), spasm of the orbicularis muscle, which may affect either the upper or lower eyelid, or paralysis of the orbicularis muscle in which only the lower eyelid is affected.
It is possible that there is nothing wrong with your water heater. There is a pressure relief valve on top that may be releasing water because your primary water pressure reduction valve for the house is worn out. The fact that the leak is intermittent suggests this.
If the leak is coming from another area on your water heater, it may be a sign that it is time to replace your water heater. At this point, you may want to consider calling a licensed plumber to diagnose the cause of the leak and your options for fixing it.