What is double vision? Causes and When to Seek Help
- needeyeexam
- Apr 28
- 2 min read
Updated: May 6
What is Double Vision (Diplopia)?
Double vision occurs when your two eyes don't work together to focus on an object. This can result in seeing two images side-by-side, one above the other, or both. The double vision may be constant or intermittent, and it can affect one or both eyes.
Common Causes of Double Vision
Several factors can lead to double vision:
Eye Muscle Problems: The muscles that control eye movement need to work in a coordinated way for single vision. Weakness or misalignment in these eye muscles (due to conditions like strabismus or nerve issues) can cause the eyes to point in slightly different directions, resulting in double vision.
Nerve Issues: The nerves that control the eye muscles can be affected by various conditions (such as multiple sclerosis, stroke, or nerve palsies), leading to uncoordinated eye movements and double vision.
Dry Eyes: Severe dry eyes can sometimes cause blurred or double vision due to an uneven tear film on the surface of the eye.
Uncorrected Vision Problems: In some cases, significant uncorrected refractive errors like astigmatism can lead to double vision that may be resolved with glasses or contact lenses.
Corneal Issues: Irregularities or damage to the cornea (the clear front surface of the eye) can distort the way light enters the eye, potentially causing double vision in one eye.
Cataracts: Clouding of the lens (cataracts) can sometimes cause double vision in one eye.
Other Medical Conditions: Certain systemic conditions like thyroid disease, diabetes, and myasthenia gravis can also affect eye muscles or nerves and lead to double vision.
When to Seek Professional Eye Care for Double Vision
If you experience double vision, especially if it occurs frequently or suddenly, it's important to have a comprehensive eye exam or vision check to determine the underlying cause.
How to Treat Double Vision
The treatment for double vision problems depends entirely on the underlying cause. Some cases may be effectively managed with:
Special eyewear: Prismatic glasses can help realign the images you see.
Contact lenses.
Vision therapy: Exercises to strengthen eye muscles and improve coordination.
Other causes may require medical attention, such as:
Surgery to correct eye muscle misalignment or cataracts.
Medication to manage underlying nerve or systemic conditions.
Prioritize Good Eye Care and Regular Checkups
Maintaining good eye care and having regular checkups are essential for overall vision health and can help detect potential issues early. If double vision persists, it's crucial to see an eye doctor right away for proper diagnosis and management. Book your comprehensive eye exam at Vision Looky Optical today at www.NeedEyeExam.com in Carrollton, Texas, to address any concerns about double vision and ensure your vision remains clear and healthy.
