what is diplopiaDiplopia is the medical term for double vision. This is when you see two images, these can be present all the time or intermittently and can vary depending on which direction your eyes are looking in or if you are looking at objects close up or far away.
Binocular double vision is due to a misalignment between your two eyes. This double vision disappears when you cover one of your eyes. Monocular double vision is when the double vision only affects one eye. This is usually caused by a structural change in the affected eye eg a cataract. |
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what causes double vision |
In most people double vision is due to an imbalance in how their eye muscles move the eyes. This is more common if you have needed to wear glasses since childhood, or have had previous squint surgery but can also occur as you get older, as your glasses prescription and ability to focus changes.
Double vision can also be a sign that the nerves controlling the eye muscles, or the eye muscles themselves, are not functioning properly and this can be related to other health conditions, for example diabetes, myasthenia gravis, multiple sclerosis, thyroid eye disease.
If you develop sudden onset double vision it is important you are assessed and you should contact your local eye emergency service.
Double vision can also be a sign that the nerves controlling the eye muscles, or the eye muscles themselves, are not functioning properly and this can be related to other health conditions, for example diabetes, myasthenia gravis, multiple sclerosis, thyroid eye disease.
If you develop sudden onset double vision it is important you are assessed and you should contact your local eye emergency service.
WHAT HAPPENS AT YOUR APPOINTMENT
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When you come to see Stephanie for your double vision, you will be first assessed by an orthoptist. Orthoptists are experts in measuring eye movements and how your eyes work together.
We will need to know the history of your symptoms, any previous treatment or surgery you have had before and any details of your general health and any medication you are on. Once your orthoptic assessment is complete Stephanie will thoroughly examine your eyes. This may involve needing dilating drops which can temporarily blur your vision so it is advisable not to drive to your appointment if possible. She will then go through your assessment results, discuss the diagnosis and treatment options with you |
WHAT TO BRING WITH YOUAll pairs of glasses or contact lenses you currently use
A list of current medications you take Any notes or details you have about previous treatment or surgery you have had on your eyes. |
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BOOK AN APPOINTMENT
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T: 02380914471
@: [email protected] |
what are the treatment options
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Treatment options can include the following:
We can advise the best for your eyes |
Double vision can be very debilitating and our aim is to help improve this for you. If possible we will provide you with a temporary solution in clinic, for example fresnel prisms, to resolve the symptoms for you whilst we give time for your eyes to recover or plan permanent treatment.
If you have new onset double vision it is important that you stop driving and contact the DVLA. Once we have assessed you we can often provide solutions to get you driving again and help provide the required information for the DVLA. |