Double Vision

What is it?

Double vision (diplopia) is a visual disturbance in which a person sees two images of a single object instead of one. This can occur when looking at objects up close or at a distance. Double vision can be constant or intermittent and may make it difficult to perform normal tasks such as reading or driving.

Causes of Double Vision

• Eye muscle problems. Disorders in the functioning of the eye muscles, such as strabismus (crossed eyes), can lead to double vision.
• Neurological disorders. Conditions like stroke, multiple sclerosis, or optic neuritis can affect the nerve pathways that coordinate eye movements.
• Corneal or lens problems. Conditions such as cataracts can cause clouding of the lens, leading to distorted images and double vision.
• High blood pressure. High blood pressure can affect the blood vessels supplying the eyes, leading to double vision.
• Diabetes. Diabetes can affect blood vessels and the nervous system, which may also lead to double vision.
• Vision problems. Refractive errors, such as astigmatism, can cause image distortion and double vision.
• Migraine. Sometimes, double vision occurs during a migraine, related to its effects on the brain's visual centers.

When to see a doctor?

• If double vision appears suddenly or is accompanied by other symptoms such as headache, weakness, or loss of coordination.
• If double vision persists or worsens over time.
• If you notice deterioration in vision or changes in the way objects are perceived.
• If double vision is accompanied by eye pain or loss of vision.

Diagnosis and Treatment

• Medical examination. The doctor will perform an examination and may refer for additional tests, such as vision tests or neurological assessments.
• Ophthalmological examination. An eye exam may be necessary to check the health of the eyes, including refraction tests, retinal examination, and eye muscle function tests.
• MRI or CT scan. To detect brain or neurological disorders that may cause double vision, an MRI or CT scan may be ordered.
• Vision correction. Depending on the cause of double vision, treatment may include wearing glasses or contact lenses to correct vision.
• Medication. Treatment may include medications to regulate blood pressure, manage diabetes, or other drugs aimed at addressing the cause of double vision.