, colloquially known as '''double vision''', is the
Perception of two images from a single object. The images may be horizontal, vertical, or diagonal .
Double vision can occur when the two eyes are not correctly aligned while aiming at an object. When the eyes are misaligned and aimed at different targets, two non-matching images are sent to the viewer's brain. When the viewer's brain accepts and uses two non-matching images simultaneously, double vision results.
Double vision is dangerous to survival, therefore, the brain naturally guards against its occurrence. In an attempt to avoid double vision, the brain can ignore one eye (suppression). Due to the brain's ability to suppress one eye, double vision can appear to go away without medical evaluation or treatment. The causes of the double vision are very likely still present and loss of vision in one eye can occur due to lack of treatment. The loss of vision in one eye can be temporary or permanent depending on detection and treatment. It is in this way, that diplopia contributes to loss of
Depth Perception and
Binocular Vision ,
Amblyopia (lazy eye), and/or
Strabismus (deviating eye).
Diplopia can also occur when viewing with only one eye; this is called , or where the patient perceives more than two images, '''monocular polyopia'''. In this case, the multiple vision can be caused by a structural defect in the vision system, such as
Cataracts or
Subluxation of the
Lens .
Temporary diplopia can also be caused by
Intoxication from
Alcohol or head injuries, such as
Concussion . If temporary double vision does not resolve quickly, see an eye doctor immediately.
Treatment for binocular diplopia includes
Prism Lenses and/or
Vision Therapy . Daily wear of prism lenses is the passive compensatory treatment. Vision therapy is an active treatment which retrains the visual and vestibular systems (brain, eye muscles, and body). Vision therapy may eliminate the need for daily wear of prism lenses.
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