Double vision is always a concern until it has been shown that it is benign and may have a naturally resolving course. Patients experiencing new diplopia vision should be seen within 24 hours. If they have associated neurological symptoms such as headache, they should be seen within the hour.
Diplopia can be divided into monocular (one-eyed) Diplopia, such as occurs with cataracts, or disorders of the macula or cornea. Binocular diplopia, where the two eyes are misaligned either horizontally or vertically, means that the patient sees two objects while just looking at one.
When a patient presents with diplopia, it is important to exclude things like a 6th nerve palsy, a 3rd nerve palsy or a 4th nerve palsy, or a central cause of diplopia related to the brain, such as a stroke. This is known as skew deviation. Myasthenia gravis can also present with diplopia. A fracture of the orbital bones around the eye, or a mass in the orbit, such as with orbital tumours or inflammation, or Thyroid Orbitopathy can also cause diplopia.
Once the diagnosis had been reached by a careful clinical examination, the patient can be appropriately managed and the patient treated accordingly. Most diplopia resolves on its own, or with treatment.
A patient with persistent diplopia is forbidden by law to drive a motor vehicle.
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The Chatswood Eye Specialists Clinic has been servicing the community of Chatswood for over 30 years. Our modern clinic in the Chatswood Private Hospital building on Albert Avenue features the latest ophthalmic equipment and technology. Our Eye Specialists are leaders in their field and our highly trained Orthoptists are on hand to take you through any tests that may be required during your visit. Please feel free to call one of the friendly reception staff if you would like to enquire about any of our services.