New double vision: contact a doctor the same day. Call 112 if it comes with paralysis, difficulty speaking or a sudden severe headache.
Test yourself
Close one eye at a time. If the double vision disappears when you close either eye, your eyes are not pointing the same way. If the double vision is still there with one eye closed, the cause is in the eye itself.
Double vision with both eyes open
The eyes do not point the same way because an eye muscle, or the nerve controlling it, is not working. This can be caused by a small blood clot in the nerve due to diabetes or high blood pressure, thyroid disease, myasthenia, or a stroke or bleeding in the brain.
Double vision in one eye
The cause is in the eye, for example cataract, dry eyes, keratoconus or the wrong glasses. It is rarely urgent.
Call 112 if the double vision comes with
- paralysis, numbness, difficulty speaking or a drooping mouth
- a sudden severe headache
- a drooping eyelid and a large pupil on the same side
- dizziness and difficulty walking
Treatment
Treatment depends on the cause. Double vision after a small blood clot in a nerve often resolves by itself within 3–6 months. In the meantime, a prism in your glasses or a patch over one eye can make daily life easier. You must not drive while you have double vision.
What happens at our clinic?
- We examine your vision, eye movements and pupils and measure how much the eyes are misaligned.
- We find out whether the cause is in the eye or in the nerves and muscles, and refer you for a scan or to a neurologist when necessary.
- If needed, we advise on prism glasses or a patch.
This text is general information and does not replace an examination. If you are unsure about your symptoms, call us.