Double vision, or diplopia, is a condition in which a person sees a single object more than once. Common causes of double vision include coordination problems between the eyes, weak eye muscles, nerve problems, eye diseases such as cataracts or head trauma. This can be a treatable problem, but it is important to consult an ophthalmologist for a correct diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
What are the Symptoms of Double Vision (Diplopia)?
Double vision or diplopia can present with some distinct symptoms. These symptoms may include the following:
Multiple Objects Appearing: A person perceives a single object as more than one. This is usually caused by a mismatch between the eyes.
Headaches: Double vision can lead to headaches due to overwork or maladaptive movement of the eye muscles.
Eye Pain or Discomfort: Abnormal functioning of the eye muscles can cause pain or discomfort in the eye.
Strabismus of the Eyelids: Weak eye muscles can cause strabismus of the eyelids.
Double Vision Increased by Looking in a Certain Direction of the Head: Double vision is often increased when the head is turned in a certain direction or is in a certain position.
Dizziness: Dizziness can sometimes be caused by the eyes working out of sync.
What Causes Double Vision (Diplopia)?
Double vision is a condition that occurs as a result of the eyes working out of sync. This incompatibility is usually caused by the irregular functioning of the eye muscles or the nerves that control eye movements. Some factors among the causes of double vision:
Strabismus: When one or both eyes deviate from normal alignment, this condition is called strabismus. Strabismus can cause double vision problems.
Weakness or Spasm of the Eye Muscles: When the eye muscles work irregularly, it can make it difficult for the eyes to focus on each other.
Nervous System Problems: Problems with the nervous system that controls eye movements can cause double vision. Nerve injuries, tumors or nerve inflammation can cause this condition.
Cataracts: Cataracts can occur when the natural lens in the eye loses its transparency. Cataracts can prevent light from focusing properly in the eye and can lead to double vision problems.
Refractive Errors: Eye defects, especially astigmatism, myopia or hyperopia, can cause double vision problems.
Eye Inflammations or Infections: Inflammations or infections in the eye can cause double vision problems by preventing the eye muscles from working normally.
How is Double Vision (Diplopia) Diagnosed?
During examinations for the diagnosis of diplopia, various tests are performed by an ophthalmologist or neurologist. These tests include eye examinations, glasses or lens examinations, eyelid and eye surface examinations. Eye movement tests and fundus examinations are used to determine the cause of double vision and to assess neurological origins.
Eye movement monitoring tests are also important to assess eye coordination and neuromuscular control. The diagnostic process comprehensively assesses the individual's eye health and identifies the underlying cause, helping to create the appropriate treatment plan. Therefore, it is important for individuals experiencing double vision to consult a specialized ophthalmologist.
How is Double Vision (Diplopia) Treated?
When treating diplopia, it is important to first determine the underlying cause. Treatment may vary depending on the cause of diplopia. Some methods applied in the treatment of double vision:
Use of Glasses or Lenses: Refractive errors, that is, problems with the focusing of the eyes, are corrected with the use of glasses or lenses. This can be a solution to monocular diplopia problems.
Eye Exercises: In some cases, special eye exercises can be applied to improve the coordination of the eye muscles. This may include rehabilitation programs for strabismus or other eye muscle problems.
Eye Closure (Occlusion) Treatment: In the case of binocular diplopia, it is sometimes necessary to temporarily close one eye. This can be used to send a correct visual signal to the brain and correct the problem of double vision.
Surgical Intervention: In some cases, surgical intervention may be needed to correct eye muscles or other eye problems. Surgery may be an option in cases of strabismus or other conditions that require eye surgery.
Treatment of Underlying Health Problems: Double vision can sometimes be caused by general health problems. In this case, treatment of the underlying health problem is a priority. For example, diabetes, thyroid problems or nervous system disorders can cause double vision.