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.
A plumber should then be called to check the pressure to the house and make the necessary corrections. Another sign of a leak is if the water heater stand is wet or damp. Your water heater is insulated and therefore should never release condensation and your stand should be completely dry.