What Is Diplopia (Double Vision)?

Seeing double isn’t just a state of delirium. Diplopia, or double vision, is a condition that occurs when someone sees two images instead of one. Double vision can occur in one or both eyes and can cause issues regarding movement, balance, and reading. These two types of double vision are called monocular and binocular diplopia.

The Difference Between Monocular & Binocular Diplopia

If you are seeing double, your eye doctor will classify your double vision as either monocular (one eye) or binocular (two eyes). Monocular diplopia occurs when one eye is in use, whereas binocular diplopia is present while both eyes are open. Double vision can affect anyone, but it is more common among seniors.

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What Causes Double Vision?

Double vision is often caused by other underlying conditions, which is why regular eye exams are so important. Below are common conditions that can cause both monocular and binocular diplopia.

Causes of Monocular Diplopia

Astigmatism
Cataracts
Dry Eye Syndrome
Poor Fitting Glasses or Contacts
Iris Abnormalities

Causes of Binocular Diplopia

Strokes
Misaligned Eyes
Brain Aneurysms
Cranial Nerve Problems

Other Causes of Double Vision

Myasthenia Gravis

Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disease that causes people to lose control of their muscles. As a result, they may not be able to control the muscles in their face, neck, limbs, and eyes.

Proptosis

Also known as bulging eyes, proptosis is a condition caused by a thyroid issue like Graves’ Disease. Proptosis causes either one or both eyes to protrude out of their natural position, resulting in vision issues like double vision.

Keratoconus

Keratoconus is a condition that happens when your cornea loses its shape. A normal cornea is shaped like a horizontal oval, but keratoconus causes it to bulge like a cone.

Vertigo

Vertigo is a condition that causes the sufferer to feel like their environment is spinning. While typically triggered by inner ear issues, vertigo can also be caused by severe double vision.

Diabetes

Diabetes can affect various parts of your body, including your eyes. If you have diabetes, you might experience double vision or retinopathy.

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How Is Diplopia Treated & What Are the Tests Needed?

If you have binocular diplopia, your doctor may issue an MRI, a CT scan, or a blood test. Those with monocular diplopia generally won’t need further testing past an eye exam. Treatment, however, depends on the cause of your double vision.

How Can I Prevent Diplopia?

Unfortunately, there aren’t many ways to prevent diplopia. However, taking care of your eyes and your overall health are great ways to help prevent the development of double vision. Make sure that you take breaks from screens, wear protective eyewear when needed, and quit smoking.

And, of course, make sure you are scheduling your yearly eye exams.

Treat Your Double Vision at Specialty Eye Institute

Since 1978, Speciality Eye Institute has been placing patients first through exceptional eye care. Our doctors use cutting-edge technology to diagnose and treat eye issues like double vision. Stop seeing double and start seeing clearly again. Schedule your eye exam with Specialty Eye institute.