Experiencing double vision, also known as diplopia, can be unsettling and disorienting. If you're seeing two images of a single object, it's crucial to consult an eye doctor for proper diagnosis. Understanding what a double vision test consists of and the types of tests you can do at home and the types of diplopia assessment tests your eye doctor may use can help you feel more informed and prepared during your examination.
Key Takeaways:
- Learn about common at-home double vision tests.
- Learn about common types of double vision tests used by eye doctors.
- Understand the purpose and significance of each test.
- Gain insights into what to expect during a double vision eye exam.
- Discover the importance of accurate diagnosis for effective treatment.
Double Vision Tests You Can Do At Home
Your eye doctor will likely conduct a series of tests to determine the cause of your double vision. Some common tests include:
1. Dot Card
This is a visual therapy exercise that aims to improve the ability to bring in both eyes together while stimulating peripheral awareness and binocular vision. We can use this exercise to test our ability to fuse images into one. Failure to perform this test may indicate the presence of double vision.
Instructions:
For this exercise you will need a dot card, if you don't have any you can download our free sample of a dot card and print it.
Step 1: Place the dot card tilted below eye level, with the start of the dot at your nose.
Step 2: Focus your gaze on the furthest dot, making sure it's single and clear. If you can't make the furthest dot a single one, it indicates symptoms of double vision. The rest of the dots near to you will appear double and it'll appear as an inverted V.
Step 3: Slowly move your focus down the line, from the furthest dot to the closes dot to the nose. It'll appear as an "X". If you can't see the "X", it indicates symptoms of double vision.
Step 4: If you struggle to keep the next closest dot single and clear, you can try to blink and close your eyes to refocus. If after it, it still remains double move back to the last dot you can keep single at.
Step 5: Hold focus at the closest dot to your nose for 10 seconds.
Step 6: At this point, close your eyes and then look far away for 5-10 seconds.
Note: At the end of the exercise sessions, you need to relax your eyes by looking out of a window at a faraway object and then closing your eyes for a few minutes.
2. Cover Test
During this test, your doctor will cover one of your eyes while observing the movement of the uncovered eye. If the uncovered eye moves to try and focus on the object, it suggests a misalignment. This helps determine if your eyes are properly aligned, that is why the cover test is also known as the strabismus test, this is simple test you can take at home.
Common Types of Professional Double Vision Tests
Your eye doctor will likely conduct a series of tests to determine the cause of your double vision. Some common tests include:
Maddox Rod Test
This test uses a special lens to create a line of light. By observing how your eyes align with this line, your doctor can determine the direction and magnitude of any eye misalignment.
Prism and Cover Test
This test involves placing prisms in front of your eyes to correct the misalignment. Your doctor will then observe how your eyes move and adjust the prisms accordingly. This helps determine the strength of prisms needed to align your eyes properly.
Other Potential Tests
Depending on the suspected cause of your double vision, your doctor may also perform other tests, such as:
- Visual field tests: To assess your peripheral vision.
- Neurological examinations: To rule out any underlying neurological conditions.
- Imaging studies: Such as MRI or CT scans, if neurological conditions are suspected.
What to Expect During a Double Vision Eye Exam
A comprehensive eye exam for double vision typically involves the following steps:
- Medical history review: Your doctor will review your medical history, including any recent illnesses, injuries, or medications.
- Visual acuity tests: You will be asked to read an eye chart to assess your visual acuity (sharpness of vision).
- Eye movement tests: Your doctor will ask you to follow a moving object with your eyes to assess eye coordination and movement.
- Pupil examination: Your doctor will examine your pupils to check for any abnormalities in size, shape, or reaction to light.
- Specific double vision tests: Your doctor will perform the appropriate tests, such as the cover test, Maddox rod test, or prism and cover test.
The Importance of Accurate Diagnosis
Accurate diagnosis of double vision is crucial for effective treatment.
Treatment Options
The treatment for double vision will vary depending on the underlying cause.
Eyeglasses or contact lenses
Special double vision glasses may be prescribed to correct refractive errors.
Vision therapy
Exercises to improve eye coordination and focusing skills.
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Medications
May be prescribed to treat underlying medical conditions.
Surgery
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct eye alignment or address other underlying issues.
Improving Treatment Outcomes
- An accurate diagnosis allows your doctor to recommend the most appropriate treatment plan for your specific condition.
- Early diagnosis and treatment can often improve visual outcomes and prevent long-term complications.
Conclusion
Don't ignore double vision! While simple at-home tests can provide clues, a comprehensive eye exam by a doctor is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. Early intervention can improve visual outcomes and prevent complications. Consider vision therapy options like Equal-Eyes VR for a potentially sight-saving solution.