When your child starts reporting they are experiencing double vision or shows visible signs of ocular issues, consult an eye care professional right away, as it may be caused by an underlying condition. An eye evaluation from a professional ensures they receive the appropriate solution they need, whether that’s prescription lenses or other health treatments.
What Exactly is Double Vision?
Double vision, also known as diplopia, occurs when the eyes fail to produce a single, clear image. Normally, both eyes capture images that the brain blends seamlessly into a single image. When this process is disrupted, the brain receives mismatched signals, causing doubled, overlapping, or separated images.
Types of Double Vision
Diplopia or double vision is classified into different types:
- Monocular diplopia: This is the most common and typically less serious form of diplopia. It happens when your child still has double vision even after closing or covering one eye. The doubled images often appear as shadows or ghosting.
- Binocular diplopia: This condition happens only when both eyes are open and disappears when one eye is covered. It is usually caused by eye misalignment or underlying health conditions affecting your child’s vision.
Common Signs & Symptoms of Double Vision in Children
If your child is dealing with double vision, in some cases, you may notice behavioural or physical cues rather than direct complaints. Some key warning signs include:
- Frequent eye rubbing or blinking
- Covering or closing one eye when looking at something
- Squinting or narrowing the eyes
- Frequent headaches, especially after reading
- Complaints of tired eyes or visual discomfort
- Clumsiness or bumping into objects
- Avoiding reading or near tasks
- Drop in school performance
What Are the Possible Causes of Double Vision in Kids?
Double vision in children can stem from a variety of issues, with some conditions being mild and can easily be addressed, while others may require urgent medical attention.
1. Refractive Errors
Monocular diplopia is most commonly linked to refractive errors such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. These conditions affect how light enters the eye, making it difficult to focus properly on objects. As a result, images may appear blurred, shadowed, or doubled.
When this happens, an optometrist can prescribe spectacles or contact lenses, to sharpen focus and address double vision caused by refractive issues.
2. Strabismus
Strabismus, also referred to as crossed eyes, is a condition wherein the eyes are in misalignment, with one eye turning inward, outward, upward, or downward while the other focuses straight ahead. This misalignment occurs when the muscles responsible for eye movement are not working together effectively, resulting in improper eye positioning.
In young children, strabismus often becomes noticeable before the age of three. However, in older children or adults, the sudden onset of strabismus, especially when accompanied by double vision, may signal a more serious neurological issue. If this condition occurs, seek medical attention immediately.
How is the Cause of Double Vision Detected in Children?
If your child is experiencing sudden double vision, a comprehensive eye examination by an optometrist can help identify the underlying issue and determine the appropriate correction. During the assessment, the optometrist may conduct several tests, including:
- Visual Acuity Testing: This involves reading the vision testing chart to evaluate how well your child can see letters, shapes, and fine details at different distances.
- Refraction Test: During a refraction test, the optometrist will show your child letters or shapes through different lenses and ask which ones look clearer. This helps them find the best prescription so your child can see sharply with glasses or contacts. For a young child who may not be able to verbalise or understand, the optometrist will perform retinoscopy. It is an objective assessment to find out your child’s prescription without requiring feedback from your child. This is a quick and painless test that involves shining a light into their eyes to see how the light reflects back.
- Binocular Vision Assessment: This is when the optometrist checks how well both eyes work together to find out if problems with eye coordination might be causing double vision.
Get Professional Eye Care for Your Child’s Refractive Errors
If your child’s double vision is linked to refractive issues such as myopia or astigmatism, or binocular vision issues, professional support is essential. At Kacee Eye Care, our experienced optometrists can help detect and manage refractive errors and binocular vision issues in children. We offer comprehensive eye exams, customised myopia management plans, and corrective lens options, including Ortho-K lenses, to help your child achieve clear and comfortable vision.
Addressing refractive errors and binocular vision problems early can minimise the risk of learning difficulties, reduce visual discomfort, and support your child’s ability to perform at their best in school and daily activities. Schedule an appointment with our optometrist today to ensure your child receives the care and support they need for healthy, confident vision growth.
For more insights into how you can care for your child’s eyes, check out our guide on myopia control in children and the most common child eye problems parents should know about.