Double vision should never be ignored. Sudden double vision can be a sign of a stroke or other emergency and needs urgent medical care. Ongoing double vision needs an eye exam to find the cause. For some causes, such as convergence insufficiency, eye-care professionals may prescribe vision therapy, a clinical treatment. VisionUp is a wellness app, not vision therapy.
Introduction
Imagine waking up one morning and seeing two of everything—your coffee cup, the road ahead, even your loved ones’ faces. It sounds unnerving, doesn’t it? Yet, for people with double vision (also known as diplopia), this can be a daily reality.
Double vision isn’t just inconvenient; it can signal deeper issues with your eyes or brain. Many ignore it, assuming it will go away on its own. That can delay finding a cause that needs treatment. Let’s look at the common causes, why it matters, and how eye doctors approach it.
What Causes Double Vision?
Double vision can stem from various underlying issues, including:
- Eye Misalignment (Strabismus): When the eyes don’t work together properly.
- Neurological Disorders: Issues with nerves that control eye movement.
- Eye Muscle or Nerve Problems: Sometimes linked to diabetes, thyroid disease or injury.
Common Causes of Double Vision
| Cause | Description |
| Strabismus | Misaligned eyes leading to two separate images |
| Convergence Insufficiency | Eyes don’t turn in well for close work |
| Trauma or Injury | Damage to the eyes or brain affecting vision |
Only an exam can tell these apart, which is why the cause comes first.
Why Ignoring Double Vision is Risky
Ignoring double vision can mean:
- Chronic Eye Strain: Persistent discomfort and headaches.
- Reduced Depth Perception: Challenges with driving or sports.
- A Missed Diagnosis: Some causes, such as nerve problems, need prompt treatment.
If double vision appears suddenly, or with headache, weakness or trouble speaking, seek emergency care.
Where Vision Therapy Fits
Vision therapy is a clinical treatment by eye-care professionals: a supervised program of exercises for how the eyes work together. Its best evidence is for convergence insufficiency, which can cause double vision during close work. For other causes, eye doctors may use prisms, surgery or treatment of the underlying condition.
When It Is Prescribed, It Aims To:
- Help the Eyes Team Up: For a diagnosed binocular vision problem.
- Ease Symptoms: Such as strain with close work.
- Be Re-tested: Progress is measured by the professional.
Vision Therapy Exercises for Double Vision Treatment
| Exercise | Purpose |
| Pencil Push-Ups | Practice bringing the eyes in for near targets (as prescribed) |
| Brock String | Feedback on how the two eyes are aiming |
| Eye Tracking Activities | Practice following targets smoothly |
These exercises are used within a supervised program, not as self-treatment for double vision.
Pro Tip: If you want to clean up the confusion, check out our publication about Vision Therapy vs Eye Exercises.
Pros and Cons of Vision Therapy
Pros:
- Non-invasive.
- Good evidence for convergence insufficiency.
- Supervised by a professional.
Cons:
- Requires commitment and time.
- May not be covered by insurance.
- Not suitable for many causes of double vision.
Other Ways Eye Doctors Manage Double Vision
Depending on the cause, an eye doctor may use:
- Glasses with Prisms: These lenses help align images for clarity.
- Medical Interventions: Surgery or Botox for severe cases.
- Treating the Cause: For example, managing diabetes or thyroid disease.
What About Apps?
- No app can diagnose or treat double vision.
- VisionUp is a wellness app for everyday eye strain, not vision therapy.
- If you see double, see an eye doctor.
Conclusion
Double vision may start as a minor annoyance, but it always deserves an exam, and sudden double vision is an emergency. Vision therapy is one clinical option for some causes, mainly convergence insufficiency, and is prescribed by eye-care professionals.
Learn more about one common cause from the National Eye Institute: convergence insufficiency.
FAQs
- What causes double vision?
Eye misalignment, convergence insufficiency, nerve problems and injury are common causes. - Is vision therapy effective for double vision?
For some causes, especially convergence insufficiency. An eye-care professional decides whether it is indicated. - How long does vision therapy take?
Most programs last several months, with consistent weekly sessions. - Are there alternatives to vision therapy?
Glasses with prisms and medical procedures can help in some cases. - Can I use an app for double vision?
No. Apps, including VisionUp, are not vision therapy. Double vision needs an exam.
Related article:
