How Do You Fix Double Vision?

Double vision is a condition where a single object appears as two separate images. This visual disturbance can be frustrating and disorienting, impacting everyday activities like reading, driving, and even walking. While it may be alarming, double vision is often a symptom of an underlying issue that can be addressed with proper diagnosis and treatment.
 

Common Causes of Double Vision

Double vision can arise from a wide range of factors, including:
 

• Refractive Errors: Conditions like astigmatism, myopia (nearsightedness), or hyperopia (farsightedness) can cause double vision, especially if they are not properly corrected with prescription lenses.
• Eye Muscle Imbalance: The extraocular muscles responsible for controlling eye movement may become misaligned or weakened, leading to double vision. Some people are born with this tendency, but it can also be caused by thyroid disorders, swelling around the eyes, or surgery for other eye problems.
• Neurological Conditions: Certain neurological disorders, such as multiple sclerosis, stroke, or brain tumors, can affect the nerves controlling eye movement and cause double vision, as can diabetes and high blood pressure.
• Aging: As we age, the eye muscles may weaken, or sag out of position, causing double vision.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Double Vision

The primary symptom of double vision is, unsurprisingly, seeing two images of a single object. However, there are several other signs and symptoms that may accompany this condition:
 

• Blurred Vision: In addition to double vision, you may experience blurred or unclear vision.
• Eye Strain and Fatigue: Trying to focus on double images can lead to eye strain, headaches, and fatigue.
• Vertigo or Dizziness: Some individuals with double vision may experience a sense of dizziness or vertigo, especially when trying to focus on moving objects.
• Difficulty with Depth Perception: Double vision can make it challenging to gauge distances accurately, affecting activities like driving or playing sports.
• Squinting or Head Tilting: You may find yourself squinting or tilting your head in an attempt to alleviate the double vision.

The Role of an Optometrist in Treating Double Vision

If you experience double vision, it's crucial to consult an optometrist promptly. An optometrist is a trained professional who specializes in diagnosing and treating vision problems, including double vision.
 

One of the most effective treatments for double vision involves the use of specialized lenses called prisms. These lenses are designed to help align the images perceived by each eye, alleviating the double vision and restoring clear, comfortable vision. Prism lenses bend light in a specific way, to move the images perceived by each eye to a position where they are superimposed. These lenses can be incorporated into eyeglasses or and sometimes contact lenses, depending on the individual's needs. Your optometrist will carefully evaluate your specific condition and recommend the most appropriate type of specialized lens to address your double vision.
 

Navigating Double Vision with the Help of Vista Eyecare

Double vision can be a frustrating and disorienting condition, but with proper diagnosis and treatment, it is often possible to restore clear and comfortable vision. By understanding the common causes, recognizing the symptoms, and seeking the expertise of an optometrist, you can take proactive steps toward addressing this visual disturbance.
 

If you are experiencing double vision, schedule a comprehensive eye exam with our experienced optometrists. At Vista Eyecare, our team of dedicated professionals are committed to providing comprehensive eye care services tailored to your individual needs. Visit Vista Eyecare at our office in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, or call (306)-955-3811 to book an appointment today.