Double Vision (Diplopia)

Elderly people can get double vision for many different reasons. Sometimes, it's simply due to a problem with how the eye works ‑ such as glaucoma or cataracts. Other times, it could be related to their medication or other health conditions. Sometimes, it's a sign of something serious, including things like a stroke. Any change in vision should be taken seriously. If double vision comes on suddenly and is accompanied by pain or confusion, go to your local emergency department. If you cannot see clearly, someone else should drive you. For eye injuries that are not life‑threatening, visit your local injury unit. You can also call your GP or speak to a pharmacist for advice.

Double vision in one eye (monocular diplopia) is usually caused by a problem with how one of your eyes is working. Often, it's an issue with the eye itself ‑ such as a problem with the lens or cornea. It could also be caused by problems with the muscles that align the eyes. Sometimes it's an issue with the nerves in the affected eye. An optometrist can do tests to find out what's causing the double vision.

Double vision may sometimes clear up by itself, especially if it's caused by something temporary, such as extreme tiredness. However, if your double vision lasts for more than a few hours or keeps coming back, then it could be a sign of something more serious.

If you have new constant double vision, you should not drive until you are advised otherwise. Double vision that comes and goes can be caused by many problems. Often, it's caused by issues that do need medical treatment, but aren't super urgent. That includes things like dry eye syndrome, astigmatism, eye strain or cataracts. However, it could also be a sign of more serious conditions, including neurological issues, strokes or brain tumours, which need to be treated urgently. This is why it's really important not to ignore it.

Yes, double vision may be a symptom of a brain tumour ‑ but there could also be many other common causes, so it's best to get it checked as soon as possible. Brain tumours may put pressure on the nerves that carry images from the eye or the parts of the brain that process images. This could cause double vision for some people.

No, it is illegal to drive if you have double vision. You must stop driving and inform the DVLA of your condition. However, if your diplopia is treated and controlled, you may be allowed to drive again following further assessment.

It is unlikely that double vision will lead to blindness, although it is possible. If the double vision is caused by certain conditions ‑ such as cataracts ‑ and it is not treated, then it could lead to blindness. However, most causes of diplopia don't typically lead to blindness.

There are a few conditions that can cause double vision in children. Perhaps the most common is strabismus ('squint'). This is when their eyes don't line up, so they see two images when looking at one object. There could be other causes of double vision in kids, too. If your child complains of double vision, it's really important to get the issue seen by an optometrist.