Binocular diplopia is a condition where an individual perceives two distinct images of a single object while both eyes are open. It is a specific type of double vision that points to an issue with how the two eyes work together.
Understanding Binocular Diplopia
Unlike monocular diplopia, which affects vision in one eye, binocular diplopia involves both eyes. This means the brain receives two slightly different images from each eye that it cannot fuse into a single, cohesive picture.
Key Characteristics
A defining characteristic that helps identify binocular diplopia is its response to covering one eye:
- Double vision occurs only when both eyes are open.
- The double vision disappears immediately if one eye is covered or closed. This simple test can help differentiate it from other visual disturbances.
Common Causes
Binocular diplopia often signals an underlying health concern that affects the eyes' ability to align or coordinate properly. Common reasons include:
- Eyes being out of alignment: This can be due to issues with the muscles that control eye movement, or conditions like strabismus (crossed eyes or misaligned eyes).
- Health conditions affecting vision: Various health issues, including neurological disorders, thyroid problems, or muscle diseases, can impact the nerves or muscles responsible for eye movement and coordination, leading to binocular diplopia.
Severity
It is important to note that binocular diplopia is generally considered a more serious symptom. Its presence usually indicates an underlying medical or neurological condition that requires professional evaluation and diagnosis to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.
