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Contents
  • What is Diplopia?
  • Types of Diplopia
  • Understanding the Causes

What's Behind That Double Vision? Understanding Diplopia

What's Behind That Double Vision? Understanding Diplopia

The Big Picture

Double vision, or diplopia, can be more than just a minor annoyance. Understanding its causes and symptoms can help in seeking the right treatment.
Contents
  • What is Diplopia?
  • Types of Diplopia
  • Understanding the Causes

What is Diplopia?

Diplopia refers to seeing two images of a single object, which can be due to problems with the muscles that move the eyes. It’s important to identify whether it’s binocular (both eyes open) or monocular (one eye open). Binocular diplopia indicates a misalignment issue, while monocular could suggest local eye disease. Patients often choose to close one eye to alleviate the symptom.

Types of Diplopia

Vertical diplopia involves seeing images stacked on top of each other and can arise from issues with specific eye muscles. Horizontal diplopia causes side-by-side images and often relates to problems with the medial or lateral eye muscles. Torsional diplopia, although less common, involves images rotating relative to each other.
Diplopia, commonly known as double vision, involves seeing two images of a single object. It can be caused by issues with eye muscles and is classified into binocular and monocular types.

Understanding the Causes

Diplopia can result from a variety of causes, including nerve palsies, thyroid problems, or even neurological conditions like myasthenia gravis. Each cause requires a different approach to diagnosis and treatment, underscoring the importance of a thorough medical evaluation.

FAQs

What is binocular diplopia?

It’s double vision that occurs when both eyes are open.

How is vertical diplopia different?

Vertical diplopia involves images being one above the other.

What causes horizontal diplopia?

It often results from issues with the medial or lateral eye muscles.

Is torsional diplopia common?

No, it is less common and involves image rotation.

Wrapping Up

Understanding the type of diplopia and its causes can lead to better management and relief.
Talk with Doctronic about your diplopia concerns to find the right path to clarity.
Additional References
  1. Keane JR. Triplopia: thirteen patients from a neurology inpatient service. Arch Neurol 2006; 63:388.
  2. Brazis PW, Lee AG. Binocular vertical diplopia. Mayo Clin Proc 1998; 73:55.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.