Diplopia

What is Diplopia

Diplopia is the condition of having double vision or seeing two of a single object. There are many causes of diplopia. Some are not dangerous and can be easily corrected. Diplopia may also be a symptom of a serious medical problem.

There are two types of diplopia.

  • Monocular diplopia. This is double vision that affects only one eye. Monocular diplopia is often caused by a clouding of the lens in your eye (cataract) or by disruptions in the way that your eye focuses light.
  • Binocular diplopia. This is double vision that affects both eyes. However, when you shut one eye, the double vision will go away. Binocular diplopia may be more serious. It can be caused by:
    • Problems with the nerves or muscles that are responsible for eye movement.
    • Neurologic diseases.
    • Thyroid problems.
    • Tumors.
    • An infection near your eyes.
    • A stroke.

You may need to see a health care provider who specializes in eye conditions (ophthalmologist) or a nerve specialist (neurologist) to find the cause.

Follow these instructions at home:

  • Tell your health care provider about any changes in your vision.
  • Do notdrive or operate heavy machinery if diplopia interferes with your vision.
  • Keep all follow-up visits as directed by your health care provider. This is important.

Contact a health care provider if:

  • Your diplopia gets worse.
  • You develop any other symptoms along with your diplopia, such as:
    • Weakness.
    • Numbness.
    • Headache.
    • Eye pain.
    • Clumsiness.
    • Nausea.
    • Drooping eyelids.
    • Abnormal movement of one of your eyes.

Get help right away if:

  • You have sudden vision loss.
  • You suddenly get a very bad headache.
  • You have sudden weakness or numbness.
  • You suddenly lose the ability to speak, understand speech, or both.
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