Double vision, also known as diplopia, is a common problem that people experience at some point in their lives. While most causes of double vision affect both eyes, it is possible to have double vision in one eye, also known as monocular diplopia.
How to Test For Double Vision in One Eye
To check for double vision in one eye, cover one eye and look at an object. If there is only a single image of the object, then double vision is not occurring in that eye.
Repeat the test on the other eye by covering the first and looking at the same object. If double vision occurs in only one of the eyes, you may be suffering from monocular diplopia.
What Are the Symptoms of Monocular Diplopia?
Monocular diplopia can present differently in individuals. Some may perceive two completely separated images, while others may perceive partial overlap or an image halo.
The appearance of the images will be a significant factor in identifying the cause of the double vision.
What Can Cause Double Vision in One Eye?
Monocular diplopia can often be caused by glasses or contact lenses. If glasses or contacts are ill-fitting, double vision may persist even when one eye is covered.
Common causes include not looking through the center of the lens, a bifocal line in the vision, or misaligned contact lenses.
Double Vision From Glasses
If there is double vision in one eye, try removing your glasses first to see if it goes away. Wear an alternative pair of glasses, if available, before testing yourself for double vision again.
If your glasses are not centered correctly or have not been adjusted to suit the measurement of your eyes, this may be a possible cause of the double vision.
Likewise, bifocal glasses may cause double vision because you may be looking through the top distance lens and the bottom reading lens at the same time. These issues can be resolved by refitting a new pair of glasses or having an optician adjust the current pair correctly.
Double Vision From Contact Lenses
Contact lenses may also be a cause for concern when experiencing double vision in one eye. Contact lenses that are misaligned and not-centered may cause double vision.
If your contacts have both reading and distance powers, misalignment may be subtle and still cause double vision.
If blinking does not quickly resolve the issue, try taking the contact lens out and waiting for a few minutes to an hour before replacing it. If the double vision persists, you should see your eye doctor to evaluate the fitting of the lens on your eyes.
Treatment for Monocular Diplopia
A monocular diplopia diagnosis can be treated by making adjustments to eyeglasses or contact lenses. If the double vision persists, seek a professional eye doctor’s help for the treatment of monocular diplopia.
Summary of Monocular Diplopia
Monocular diplopia is a rare condition that can be frustrating, but it is treatable. If you are experiencing double vision symptoms, get your vision checked as soon as possible, as it can be caused by many factors related to glasses or contact lenses.
Simple adjustments may improve your vision quickly; however, consult with an eye doctor if the double vision persists. Prompt attention to vision difficulties will improve the quality of your eyesight.