Double vision

Double vision means that one object is seen as two in the eyes. The symptom may occur in only one eye (monocular double vision) or in both eyes at the same time (binocular double vision). Double vision can be constant or appear in certain positions or when tired. Visual disturbance can make it difficult, for example, to read, drive, or walk down stairs.

There are several possible causes of double vision. The most common causes in Finland are related to eye muscle dysfunction or diseases of the nervous system, such as myasthenia gravis, in which muscle fatigue and weakness are especially pronounced around the eyes. Double vision may also be associated with brain-related diseases, eye diseases, or more rarely inflammatory diseases such as sarcoidosis, which can affect the eyes.

Double vision is always a symptom that requires medical assessment. If double vision begins suddenly or is accompanied by other symptoms such as numbness, speech difficulties, muscle weakness, or severe headache, you should seek immediate care. Prolonged or recurrent double vision should also be examined by a healthcare professional to determine the cause and start appropriate treatment.