What is diplopia?
Diplopia is an eye condition involving double vision when you see two images of one object. Some people might see more than two objects. One of the objects is usually clearer, and the other object or objects appear blurry.
Diplopia can occur when only one eye is open or when both eyes are open. Diplopia most commonly occurs when both eyes are open.
With diplopia, you might also experience symptoms like eye pain, eye muscle weakness, and bulging eyes.
What causes diplopia?
Diplopia can happen when something distorts the light transmission through your eye to your retina. Your retina is the light-sensing structure at the back of your eye.
The most common causes of diplopia are:
- Cataracts
- Problems with the shape of the cornea (such as keratoconus)
- Uncorrected refractive error, typically astigmatism
- Corneal scarring
- Dislocated lens
- Paralysis of one of the nerves that control the muscles that move your eye
- Mechanical blockage of your eye movement
- Myasthenia gravis
- Infection or inflammation of the eye or surrounding structures
- Certain medical conditions, such as Graves’ disease
- Injury, such as a fracture of the eye socket
- Tumors (such as tumors near the base of the skull or the eye socket)
Eyes that aren’t properly aligned and improper eye movements might also play a role in diplopia. When your eyes aren’t properly aligned, you might see two images of equal quality.
How is diplopia treated?
After conducting a thorough eye exam and discussing and evaluating your symptoms and medical and family history, your optometrist determines the best way to treat your diplopia.
The right treatment for diplopia depends on the cause, severity, and symptoms. Your optometrist creates a personalized treatment plan and might suggest:
- Vision therapy
- Eye muscle surgery
- Certain medications (such as anti-inflammatories and antibiotics)
Vision therapy is highly effective and involves a personalized program of eye exercises designed to help improve eye-focusing problems and eye movements and alignment. Vision therapy can achieve beneficial results over time.
If you have questions about diplopia or you’re experiencing abnormal changes or uncomfortable symptoms, visit the Columbia Eye Associates & Family Focus Eye Care and use the online scheduling tool or call today.
