Double Vision
Dr. Allan Panzer is an optometrist practicing in Houston, TX. Dr. Panzer specializing in providing eye care services to patients. As an optometrist, Dr. Panzer performs eye exams, tests vision, corrects vision by prescribing eye glasses or contacts, detects certain eye disorders and manages and treats vision problems.... more
Double vision, also known as diplopia, occurs when a person sees two images of a single object instead of one. There are various causes of double vision, which can be classified into two main categories: binocular and monocular.
- Binocular Double Vision: This type of double vision occurs when both eyes are open and looking at the same object. The images seen by each eye are not aligned properly, leading to double vision. Binocular double vision is usually a result of issues related to the coordination of eye movements or alignment of the eyes.
- Strabismus: Also known as "crossed eyes" or "wandering eyes," strabismus is a condition where the eyes are misaligned and do not point in the same direction. This misalignment can lead to double vision.
- Nerve Palsy: Damage or dysfunction of the nerves that control eye movements can result in the eyes not moving together properly, causing double vision.
- Convergence Insufficiency: This occurs when the eyes have difficulty turning inward to focus on close objects. It can lead to double vision when trying to focus on near objects.
- Myasthenia Gravis: An autoimmune disorder that affects neuromuscular junctions can lead to muscle weakness, including the muscles that control eye movement, causing double vision.
- Cranial Nerve Disorders: Issues with the nerves (such as the third, fourth, or sixth cranial nerves) that control eye movement can lead to misalignment and double vision.
- Monocular Double Vision: This type of double vision occurs when only one eye is open. It usually indicates a problem within the eye itself.
- Refractive Errors: Severe uncorrected nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), or astigmatism can cause double vision in one eye when focusing on specific distances.
- Keratoconus: This is a condition where the cornea becomes thin and cone-shaped, distorting the light entering the eye and causing double vision.
- Cataracts: Clouding of the eye's natural lens can lead to double vision in the affected eye.
- Irregularities in the Cornea: Scarring or other irregularities on the cornea's surface can cause light to be refracted unevenly, resulting in double vision.
- Macular Disorders: Issues affecting the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp vision, can lead to distorted or doubled vision in one eye.
It's important to note that double vision can be a symptom of a variety of underlying conditions, some of which can be serious. If you or someone you know is experiencing double vision, we recommended you call our office for a professional assessment to determine the exact cause and receive appropriate treatment.
