Double vision, or diplopia, is a condition where a person perceives two images of a single object either intermittently or consistently. It can affect one eye (monocular diplopia) or both eyes (binocular diplopia). The cause of double vision varies based on its type. Monocular diplopia usually arises from issues within the eye itself, such as cataracts, astigmatism, or corneal irregularities. Binocular diplopia is often due to problems with the muscles or nerves controlling eye movements, which may result from conditions like strabismus, cranial nerve palsies, thyroid eye disease, or head trauma. It can also be caused by systemic conditions affecting the nerves, such as multiple sclerosis, myasthenia gravis, or a stroke. The treatment of double vision depends on the underlying cause. For monocular diplopia, correcting refractive errors with glasses or contact lenses, treating eye conditions such as cataracts, or addressing corneal abnormalities may resolve the issue. For binocular diplopia, treatment options may include eye muscle surgery, using prisms in glasses to realign the visual axes, or vision therapy to improve eye coordination. In some cases, managing the underlying medical condition, such as controlling blood sugar levels in diabetes or addressing neurological issues, is necessary. If double vision cannot be fully corrected, patching one eye can help alleviate symptoms. Early diagnosis and appropriate management are essential to prevent complications and improve quality of life for those experiencing double vision.
