Doctronic: Looking at Double Vision and Its Possible Causes
Our eyes take in light from the world around us. That light filters through our pupils and lenses. From there, it’s projected as upside-down images on our retinas. Then, the images are converted into electrical signals and sent to the brain. The brain processes all the signals it receives, flips the images over, and transforms them into something we can understand.
Sometimes, though, something goes wrong somewhere along the way, and the result is double vision. This can be unsettling, especially if you don’t know why it’s happening or what can be done about it. With double vision (diplopia) explained clearly, you can get answers to those questions and hopefully better understand what to do about it.
Damaged Eye Muscles
One common reason for double vision is damaged eye muscles. Each eye is attached to six muscles that have to work together for us to see properly. If one of those muscles is weak or can’t move the way it should, the eyes may not line up and focus correctly. They might point in slightly different directions, causing you to see double.
Cornea Issues
Problems with the cornea can also cause double vision. The cornea is the clear covering on the front of the eye. It helps with focusing light. If it gets injured or swollen, it may create distorted images. Dry eye is a common cause of cornea issues. Tears help keep the cornea smooth so it works properly. If you don’t have enough tears to keep the cornea moist and smooth, your vision may be doubled or blurry.
Cataracts
Cataracts can cause double vision as well. A cataract is a cloudy spot on the lens of the eye. It affects the way light enters the eye, which can cause distortion in the image the brain interprets for you to see. Double vision happens in the early stages of cataract development. Over time, vision problems from cataracts progress and can ultimately cause blindness if they’re not treated.
Diabetes
High blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels and nerves in and around the eyes over time. When that happens, the eyes may not be able to move properly. That can lead to misalignment of the eyes and double vision.
Thyroid Eye Disease
Thyroid eye disease is another common cause of double vision. It can cause swelling and restricted movement in the tissues surrounding the eyes. This issue is particularly common for people who suffer from Graves’ disease.
Other Considerations
Double vision isn’t always a sign of a serious problem. In some cases, it can be caused by simple, minor issues. Fatigue, eye strain, and certain medications are a few examples here. Dehydration can cause people to see double as well.
When to Be Concerned About Double Vision
For many people, double vision happens occasionally, and it’s temporary. If that’s the case for you, there’s no real need to be concerned. On the other hand, if it doesn’t go away on its own, you should consider seeing an ophthalmologist. If it happens suddenly and is accompanied by symptoms like a severe headache, weakness, confusion, and difficulty talking, please seek medical help right away. Those symptoms can be signs of a stroke or other potentially life-threatening issue.
Protecting Your Vision and Your Health
It’s not uncommon for people to occasionally experience double vision. It can be caused by a variety of factors from fatigue and eye strain to migraines and even head trauma. If it doesn’t clear up on its own, consider scheduling an eye exam. If it’s accompanied by additional serious symptoms, be sure to seek medical attention as quickly as possible.
