Double Vision with Lights: Causes and Remedies - Ophthalmology

More Info

---

Double vision, or diplopia, can be a perplexing and concerning symptom, particularly when it occurs in conjunction with bright lights. Your description of seeing halos or circles around lights, especially at night, is not uncommon and can be attributed to several factors, including dry eyes, refractive errors, and even the effects of certain medications or supplements.


Causes of Double Vision with Lights
1. Dry Eye Syndrome: As you mentioned, your eye doctor has diagnosed you with dry eye syndrome. This condition occurs when your eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. Dry eyes can lead to blurred vision and may cause light to scatter, resulting in halos or glare around lights, particularly at night. The use of artificial tears can help alleviate these symptoms, but it may take time to find the right formulation that works for you.

2. Refractive Errors: Conditions such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism can contribute to visual distortions, including double vision. If your glasses prescription is not up to date or if you are experiencing changes in your vision, this could exacerbate the problem. Regular eye exams are essential to ensure your prescription is correct.

3. Corneal Issues: The cornea is the clear front surface of the eye, and any irregularities or conditions affecting it, such as keratoconus or corneal scarring, can lead to visual distortions. If you notice changes in your vision, it is crucial to have your cornea examined thoroughly.

4. Cataracts: Although you mentioned that you do not have glaucoma, cataracts can also cause halos around lights. This condition involves the clouding of the lens inside the eye, leading to blurred vision and increased sensitivity to light.

5. Neurological Issues: In some cases, double vision can be a sign of a neurological issue, such as cranial nerve palsy. If you experience other symptoms, such as headaches, dizziness, or changes in coordination, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention.


Remedies and Management
1. Artificial Tears: Since you have been diagnosed with dry eyes, using preservative-free artificial tears can help keep your eyes lubricated and reduce symptoms. It may take some time to find the right product that works for you.

2. Warm Compresses: Applying warm compresses to your eyes can help stimulate tear production and relieve dryness.

3. Dietary Supplements: You mentioned taking lutein and drinking herbal teas like goji berry and chrysanthemum. While these can be beneficial for overall eye health, it is essential to ensure that you are getting adequate omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to help with dry eye symptoms. Consider incorporating more fatty fish, flaxseeds, or walnuts into your diet.

4. Regular Eye Exams: Regular visits to your eye care professional are crucial for monitoring your eye health and adjusting your treatment plan as needed. If your symptoms persist or worsen, further evaluation may be necessary.

5. Limit Screen Time: If you spend a lot of time in front of screens, take regular breaks to reduce eye strain. The 20-20-20 rule is a helpful guideline: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.

6. Consult a Specialist: If your symptoms do not improve with these measures, consider consulting a specialist, such as a corneal specialist or a neuro-ophthalmologist, for further evaluation.

In conclusion, while double vision and light halos can be distressing, understanding the underlying causes and implementing appropriate remedies can significantly improve your symptoms. It is essential to maintain open communication with your eye care provider and report any changes in your vision promptly.