Double Vision: Learning the Cause and Dangers of This Conditions

Have you been experiencing double vision? If so, you must first realize that double vision, also known medically as diplopia, can be a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. This article is aimed at helping you better understand what double vision is, what causes it and the dangers associated with having a sudden onset of double vision.

What is Double Vision

Double vision, also known in the medical field as diplopia, is when you see two of the same image. There are different types of diplopia. One type is monocular diplopia. This type of double vision is when you only have double vision symptoms in one eye. Binocular double vision is when both eyes are affected by double vision symptoms.

When you experience double vision you generally see two of one object, sometimes this is alleviated by covering one eye with your hand. It is important to notify your doctor if you begin to have a sudden onset of double vision-either monocular double vision or binocular double vision.

Causes of Double Vision

Strabismus is one of the most common causes of double vision for select people. Strabismus is the misalignment of one or both eyes. A tumor or blood clot behind the eye can likewise be a cause of diplopia for some and medical testing by a physician will diagnose or rule this cause out. Neurological causes; things going on in the brain, can also be a cause of double vision for various people.

Double Vision Symptoms can be a Sign of Serious Medical Condition

A sudden onset of double vision could simply be due to fatigue, stress, or something minor. However double vision is caused by SOMETHING and sometimes double vision can be a sign of a greater underlying condition that needs to be evaluated and treated by a doctor as soon as possible. Some conditions that double vision can be a sign of include but are not limited to:

Brain Tumor

Aneurysm

Swelling of the brain

Cataracts

Diabetes Mellitus

Hypertension

Multiple Sclerosis

This is just a small sampling of what double vision can be a sign of; in terms of double vision being caused by one of these underlying medical issues.

What to Do if You Have a Sudden Onset of Double Vision

If you have a sudden onset of double vision you should call your doctor immediately. Not only could double vision be a sign of a major medical condition but it can also be exceptionally dangerous. When you experience double vision the hazards of falling or injuring yourself are greatly amplified. Your vision is impaired and driving while suffering from double vision is unsafe and neglectful. Not only could you hurt yourself while driving, you could hurt someone else as well.

If you have a sudden onset of double vision you should notify your doctor. Almost certainly he will suggest you come into the office or go to the emergency room. If this is the case, have a family member or friend transport you to the office. Do not risk driving or even walking to the facility while having an episode of double vision.

Double vision is not a condition to take lightly. You may find in the end that the cause of your double vision is something minor; however it is important to note that many underlying medical conditions can cause double vision and double vision can be a red flag for one of these conditions. It is best to have yourself assessed by a medical professional as soon as possible to rule out any major causes of double vision.

Sources:
http://www.intelihealth.com/IH/ihtIH/c/9339/9843.html
http://www.medhelp.org/posts/Neurology/double-vision/show/897772
http://www.webmd.com/eye-health/double-vision-diplopia-causes-symptoms-diagnosis-treatment