Hesitation in the eyes

People with double vision see two images of the same object simultaneously. The images may appear to be side-by-side, overlapping or a blend of the two images. For some people, this vision occurs only occasionally, but for others it can be a permanent condition.

The hesitancy can occur in one (monocular type) or both (binocular type) eyes. By covering one eye, you will be able to determine which type you have. In the case of the binocular type, the double vision will disappear as soon as you cover either eye. However, if the double vision persists when you cover one eye, then it is a monocular type of double vision.

You may also experience:

• Migraine;
• Headaches;
• Nausea;
• Pain around the eyes;
• Pain when moving your eyes;
• Impaired vision;
• Droopy eyelids.

In some cases, wavering eyes can be a symptom of a more serious health problem, so it is important to see an eye specialist as soon as possible. If you have pain or a headache accompanied by wavering eyes, you should go to your nearest emergency department.

The blinking in both eyes is also known as binocular. Most cases of double vision occur when both eyes do not function properly. Each eye is surrounded by six muscles, the coordination of which causes the eyes to look at the same point. Weakness or impaired innervation of any one of these muscles can lead to binocular-type wobbling. In rare but complex cases, hesitancy can be caused by brain-related problems.

Bifurcation in one eye is known as monocular and is the rarer of the two types. It is usually caused by eye problems such as:

• Astigmatism;
• Dry eye syndrome;
• Cataracts;
• Macular degeneration.

Episodic wavering eyes can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as heavy drinking or overexertion. There is no need to worry about intermittent diplopia, but if the wavering persists for more than 48 hours, we recommend that you have your eyes checked by an eye care professional or a general practitioner.

If you notice symptoms of wavering eyes, it is important to see an eye care professional or a general practitioner as soon as possible, as the causes and complexity of the condition can vary. In order to diagnose diplopia, the eye care professional will carry out a thorough eye examination to check the condition of your eyes and to assess your eye movement coordination. During the examination, you may be asked questions so that the doctor can better understand the causes of the condition.

Questions that can be asked during the inspection:

• Whether the symptoms occur in one eye or both eyes;
• Whether the symptoms are permanent or intermittent;
• Whether the symptoms change when you move your head or change the direction of your gaze;
• Whether the symptoms occur when looking at distant or near objects.