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Stanford Health Care

Double Vision Diagnosis

Diagnosing Double Vision

Double vision can result from minor eye problems such as dry eyes. But, it can also be a symptom of a life-threatening neurological condition. Our eye experts work quickly to pinpoint the underlying causes of double vision so that we can begin emergency treatment immediately, if necessary.

Diagnostic Tests for Double Vision

If you are experiencing double vision, it’s important to visit your eye care professional as soon as possible. At Stanford, our ophthalmologists begin with a thorough eye exam to assess the health of your eyes and the pattern of eye movement.

During the exam, we will ask questions to decide on the specific diagnostic tests that you need, depending on the underlying cause of your double vision. Be ready to tell your physician if your symptoms are:

  • In one eye (monocular) or both eyes (binocular)
  • Constant or intermittent (occurring occasionally)
  • Gradual or sudden
  • Same or changing with head position or direction of eye gaze
  • At near or at far vision
  • Horizontal (side-by-side images), vertical (one image below the other) or oblique (images separated diagonally)

What’s unique about Stanford is that we have the latest generation eye tracker—the most sophisticated testing available—to record eye movement to find the exact type of problem.

We also have highly skilled neuroradiologists with experience in brain and eye nerve imaging, because of our interest and research in neuroscience. Our imaging specialists use MRI or MRA scans to image the brain and eye nerves to the highest degree of specificity and accuracy.

Treatment for Double Vision

Once our physicians confirm a diagnosis, we develop a treatment plan to address the underlying cause of your double vision. You may need care from physicians in other specialties, such as neurologists or oncologists.

Through our collaboration with other Stanford departments, physicians at the Byers Eye Institute coordinate your care for the best possible outcomes. Find out more about all your options for double vision treatment.

Clinics for Diagnosis