What is diplopia?

Diplopia is a condition in which one sees two images of the same thing. Some refer to it as double vision.

You may have diplopia in one eye or both. In most cases, double vision in the two eyes is quite serious compared to having it only in one eye.

What are symptoms of diplopia?

Besides seeing double, you may also have other symptoms should you have diplopia. You may have:

• Headache
• Nausea (an upset stomach or feeling unwell)
• Dizziness.
• Eye pain (especially when moving your eyes).

What causes double vision?

A variety of additional eye diseases can result in double vision. Anything that affects your brain, eyes, or the nerves and muscles that govern them could cause diplopia.

Other examples include:

• Astigmatism.
• Nearsightedness (myopia).
• Farsightedness (hyperopia).
• Improper fitting glasses or contacts.
• Cataracts.
• Dry eye syndrome.
• Migraines.
• Abnormalities in your iris-the colored part of your eye
• Problems with cranial nerves
• Proptosis or bulging eyes.
• Keratoconus.
• Head injuries.

What are the risk factors of diplopia?

Anyone can develop double vision, but it's most common in adults over age 60.

Specific neurological or other health disorders, such as:

• Myasthenia Gravis.
• Vertigo.
• Brain aneurysms.
• Strokes.
• Diabetes (includes diabetic retinopathy).
• Vitamin B1 deficiency.
• Thyroid illness.
• Multiple Sclerosis.

How do providers diagnose diplopia?

An eye care specialist will determine what is causing your double vision. They will examine your eyes and provide a visual acuity test to assess your eyesight.

If your condition is monocular diplopia, you probably don't require further tests to establish the underlying cause. When you have binocular diplopia, you might require:

• MRI.
• CT scan.
• Blood test.

These tests will enable your eye care specialist to see all the parts of your eyes and the surrounding area, enabling your doctor to easily identify problems of the bones, muscles, brain, or spine that may lead to double vision.

How do you treat double vision?

The therapies required will vary depending on the cause of your diplopia. Your eye care professional or healthcare provider will address the underlying issue.

Some folks just need new (or adjusted) glasses or contacts. You may need to cover one eye for a period or wear a specific contact lens to assist your eyes restore their normal vision.

Your eye care specialist will guide you on how to handle your symptoms, including removing the diplopia.

How long after treatment will I start feeling better?

It depends on what's causing the diplopia. Some cases of double vision resolve on their own, while others will not improve until your eye care specialist addresses the underlying problem.

You will need a few weeks to feel better if you need surgery to correct the problems in your eye, such as removing cataracts.

How can I prevent diplopia?

There is nothing you can do specifically to prevent double vision, but keeping your eyes in good shape and visiting your eye care professional regularly keep issues diagnosed as early as possible. Follow these actions to keep your eyes healthy:

• Do not smoke.
• Allow your eyes to rest from staring at electronic screens during your everyday routine.
• Wear suitable safety glasses or goggles for all work, sports, and hobbies.
• Schedule an eye exam every one to two years, or as frequently as your eye care doctor suggests.

What are the chances for me if I experience diplopia?

Double vision is usually not permanent. Avoid driving or engaging in other activities that could put you or others in danger while you are experiencing impaired vision. Depending on what is causing the diplopia, you may need to alter your daily routine to address the condition.

When should I worry about double vision?

Double vision is always a concern, but not necessarily the worst. Most cases are temporary. In fact, the diplopia may go away on its own. But you should still have your eyes checked if you experience double vision.

If you experience double vision more than once or if it occurs intermittently, you may have transient (intermittent) diplopia. Even if your double vision improves on its own, you should consult an eye care specialist or healthcare practitioner.

How do I take care of myself?

Advise your eye care professional if your eyes or vision change in any way. If you use glasses or contact lenses, make sure to visit your eye care professional regularly to have your prescription updated as needed.

When should I see my health care provider?

If you detect any changes in your vision, see your eye care professional right away. Whether it's as easy as requiring new glasses or a more serious condition, don't wait until symptoms worsen before getting your eyes evaluated.

When should I go to the emergency room?

If the double vision doesn't disappear within a couple of hours or if you are feeling eye pain, dizziness, weakness in your muscles, slurred speech, or confusion, go to the emergency room.

Diplopia can often be the first symptom of more significant and dangerous problems in the brain like stroke; it is something that shouldn't be ignored.

What questions should I ask my doctor?

• What are some questions to ask your doctor?
• Which treatments I will require
• How often am I supposed to have my eye and vision inspected?

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