Double Vision (Diplopia)

Double vision, medically known as diplopia, is a condition where you perceive two images of a single object. These images can appear side by side, on top of each other, or both diagonally. Double vision can affect one eye (monocular) or both eyes (binocular) and may be temporary or persistent. It is essential to understand that diplopia is a symptom of various underlying conditions, some of which may require prompt medical attention.

Understanding Double Vision

Double vision occurs when the eyes cannot work together to create a single, clear image. In binocular diplopia, the misalignment of the eyes causes each eye to send a different image to the brain, resulting in double vision. When one eye is closed, the double vision disappears. Monocular diplopia, on the other hand, persists even when the unaffected eye is closed and is usually due to a problem within the affected eye itself.

Monocular Diplopia

  • Affects One Eye: Double vision persists when the unaffected eye is closed.

  • Common Causes: Problems within the eye itself, such as cataracts, astigmatism, or abnormalities in the cornea or lens.

Binocular Diplopia

  • Affects Both Eyes: Double vision resolves when either eye is closed.

  • Common Causes: Misalignment of the eyes due to issues with the eye muscles or nerves controlling them.

Understanding whether your double vision is monocular or binocular helps in diagnosing the underlying cause.

Symptoms Accompanying Double Vision

Double vision may occur alone or with other symptoms depending on the underlying cause:

  • Eye Pain or Discomfort

  • Headaches

  • Nausea

  • Drooping Eyelids (Ptosis)

  • Weakness in the Eyes or Facial Muscles

  • Difficulty Moving the Eyes

  • Misaligned Eyes (Crossed Eyes)

If you experience any of these symptoms along with double vision, it's important to seek medical attention promptly.

Learn more about double vision at the North American Neuro-Ophthalmology Society

Causes of Double Vision

Double vision can result from various conditions ranging from minor eye issues to serious health problems.

Common Causes of Monocular Diplopia

Common Causes of Binocular Diplopia

Diagnosing Double Vision

A comprehensive evaluation is necessary to determine the cause of double vision. Your doctor will review your medical history and symptoms, and perform a thorough eye examination to assess visual acuity, eye alignment, and movement. Additional tests may include blood tests to check for underlying conditions like diabetes or thyroid disorders, imaging tests like CT scans or MRI to detect abnormalities in the brain or eye sockets, and a neurological examination to assess nerve function and muscle strength.

Treatment Options

Treatment for double vision focuses on addressing the underlying cause:

For Monocular Diplopia

  • Corrective Lenses: Glasses or contact lenses can correct refractive errors like astigmatism.

  • Cataract Surgery: Removes cloudy lens and replaces it with an artificial one.

  • Treatment for Dry Eyes: Includes artificial tears or medications to improve tear production.

  • Corneal Procedures: For conditions like keratoconus, treatments like corneal cross-linking may be recommended.

For Binocular Diplopia

  • Prism Glasses: Special lenses that adjust the light entering your eyes to reduce double vision.

  • Eye Patches: Covering one eye can eliminate double vision temporarily.

  • Medications:

    • Corticosteroids: Reduce inflammation in conditions like Graves' disease.

    • Medications for Myasthenia Gravis: Improve muscle strength.

  • Surgery:

    • Strabismus Surgery: Adjusts the eye muscles to correct alignment.

    • Orbital Decompression Surgery: For Graves' disease to relieve pressure on the eye muscles.

  • Treating Underlying Conditions:

    • Managing Diabetes or Hypertension: Controls blood sugar and blood pressure to prevent nerve damage.

    • Neurological Treatments: For conditions like MS or after a stroke, specialized therapies may be needed.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Double vision can be a sign of serious health issues. Seek immediate medical care if you experience:

  • Sudden onset of double vision

  • Double vision after a head injury

  • Double vision accompanied by severe headache, difficulty speaking, or weakness

  • Changes in consciousness or alertness

Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for the best outcomes.

Living with Double Vision

Managing double vision involves:

  • Regular Eye Exams: Keep up with appointments to monitor your condition.

  • Follow Treatment Plans: Adhere to prescribed treatments and medications.

  • Safety Measures: Take precautions to prevent falls or accidents due to impaired vision.

  • Lifestyle Adjustments: Manage chronic conditions like diabetes through diet, exercise, and medication.

  • Support Networks: Consider joining support groups for people with similar eye conditions.

How Hashemi Eye Care Can Help

At Hashemi Eye Care, our team of specialists is dedicated to diagnosing and treating the causes of double vision. We offer comprehensive evaluations and personalized treatment plans to help you regain clear vision. Our services include advanced diagnostic testing, customized treatment plans, expert surgical care, and collaborative care with neurologists and other specialists when necessary.

Schedule a Consultation

If you're experiencing double vision, don't wait to seek help. Early intervention can make a significant difference in treatment effectiveness.

Contact Hashemi Eye Care today to schedule an appointment with our experienced eye care professionals.

For more information on related conditions and treatments, visit our Neuro-Ophthalmology Care page.

Location

16542 Ventura Blvd #515
Encino, CA 91436

Contact

818-387-6565