Menu
- Medically Reviewed by Mr Mfazo Hove Consultant Ophthalmologist
- Author: Chris Dunnington
- Published: November 28, 2024
At Blue Fin Vision Eye Clinic in London, we often encounter patients concerned about experiencing double vision, medically known as diplopia. This condition can be unsettling and impact daily activities significantly. In this guide, we’ll explore what diplopia is, its causes, symptoms, and available treatments.
Understanding Diplopia
Diplopia, commonly referred to as double vision, is a condition where you see two images of a single object. This can occur in one eye (monocular diplopia) or both eyes (binocular diplopia). While it might seem alarming, diplopia is relatively common, with experts estimating that over 800,000 people in the UK visit an eye care specialist annually due to some form of double vision.
Types of Diplopia
There are two main types of diplopia:
- Monocular Diplopia
This type of double vision affects only one eye and persists even when the unaffected eye is covered. Monocular diplopia is often related to issues within the eye itself.
- Binocular Diplopia
More common than monocular diplopia, binocular double vision occurs when both eyes are open but disappears when one eye is covered. This type is usually caused by misalignment of the eyes.
Symptoms of Diplopia
The primary symptom of diplopia is seeing two images of a single object. However, other associated symptoms may include:
- Misalignment of one or both eyeballs
- Pain when moving the eyes
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Weakness in the eyes
- Exhausted eyelids
- Squinting or closing one eye to see better
In children, who may not be able to articulate their vision problems, signs of diplopia might include:
- Narrowing or squinting their eyes
- Closing one eye or covering it with their hand
- Turning their head in unusual ways
- Looking sideways instead of facing forward
Causes of Diplopia
The causes of diplopia can vary depending on whether it’s monocular or binocular.
Causes of Monocular Diplopia
Monocular diplopia is often caused by problems within the eye itself, such as:
- Dry eyes: When the eyes don’t produce enough tears
- Astigmatism: A common condition where part of the eye is not perfectly shaped
- Cataracts: Cloudy patches over the front of the eyes
- Keratoconus: A condition where the cornea becomes thin and changes shape
Causes of Binocular Diplopia
Binocular diplopia is typically caused by misalignment of the eyes (strabismus) or issues with the nerves and muscles controlling eye movement. Some common causes include:
- Strabismus: Weakness of eye muscles leading to misalignment
- Thyroid dysfunction: Conditions like Graves’ ophthalmopathy can affect eye muscles
- Myasthenia gravis: An autoimmune condition causing muscle weakness
- Diabetes: Can cause nerve damage affecting eye muscles
- Brain-related issues: Such as strokes, aneurysms, or tumours
- Multiple sclerosis: Can affect nerves controlling eye movement
Diagnosing Diplopia
If you’re experiencing double vision, it’s crucial to seek professional help. At Blue Fin Vision Eye Clinic in London, our specialists use various methods to diagnose diplopia:
- Comprehensive eye examination: Including visual acuity tests and eye movement assessments
- Cover test: To determine if the diplopia is monocular or binocular
- Imaging tests: Such as CT scans or MRIs, if a neurological cause is suspected
- Blood tests: To check for underlying health conditions
Treatment Options for Diplopia
The treatment for diplopia depends on its underlying cause. At Blue Fin Vision, we offer a range of treatments tailored to each patient’s specific needs:
For Monocular Diplopia:
- Corrective lenses: To address refractive errors like astigmatism
- Cataract surgery: If cataracts are the cause
- Treatment for dry eyes: Including artificial tears or other medications
For Binocular Diplopia:
- Prism glasses: To help align images and reduce double vision
- Eye patch: Temporarily covering one eye to manage symptoms
- Vision therapy: Exercises to strengthen eye muscles and improve coordination
- Surgery: In cases where eye muscle problems need correction
Other Treatments:
- Botox injections: Can help with certain types of eye muscle imbalances
- Medications: To treat underlying conditions like myasthenia gravis or thyroid disorders
Living with Diplopia
While experiencing double vision can be distressing, many cases are treatable. Here are some tips for managing diplopia:
- Follow treatment plans: Adhere to the treatment regimen prescribed by your eye care specialist
- Regular check-ups: Attend follow-up appointments to monitor progress
- Avoid driving: Until your diplopia is under control and you’ve been cleared by a doctor
- Use caution: Be extra careful when navigating stairs or performing tasks that require depth perception
- Seek support: Join support groups or seek counselling if diplopia is causing anxiety or depression
When to Seek Immediate Help
While diplopia is often manageable, there are situations where immediate medical attention is necessary. Seek urgent care if you experience:
- Sudden onset of double vision
- Double vision accompanied by severe headache or an enlarged pupil
- Double vision following a head injury
Prevention and Eye Health
While not all cases of diplopia are preventable, maintaining good eye health can reduce your risk:
- Regular eye exams: Visit an eye care specialist regularly, especially if you’re over 60
- Manage chronic conditions: Keep diabetes and thyroid disorders under control
- Protect your eyes: Wear protective eyewear during sports or hazardous activities
- Healthy lifestyle: Maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins A, C, E, and omega-3 fatty acids
Conclusion: Your Vision Matters
Diplopia, or double vision, can be a concerning symptom, but with proper diagnosis and treatment, many people find relief and improved vision. At Blue Fin Vision Eye Clinic in London, we’re committed to providing top-quality eye care and the latest treatments for diplopia and other vision disorders.
If you’re experiencing double vision or any other eye-related concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team of experienced specialists is here to help you maintain optimal eye health and clear vision. Remember, early detection and treatment are key to managing diplopia effectively.
Your eyes are precious, and at Blue Fin Vision, we’re dedicated to helping you see the world clearly and comfortably. Book an appointment today and take the first step towards resolving your vision concerns.
