Definition: Visual impairment in which one object is seen as two objects. It is often referred to as “double vision.” It is caused by weakness in the muscles controlling the eyes, which results in the eyes not being perfectly coordinated with each other.
Diplopia is a fairly common symptom of multiple sclerosis (MS) and is the result of lesions in the brainstem, where the cranial nerves serving the eye muscles originate. It usually goes away without treatment, but occasionally a course of corticosteroids are used to speed the process. Covering one eye with a patch eliminates the double vision and is useful for driving or other necessary tasks. However, this is not recommended for long periods.
Also Known As: double vision
