How to cure double vision naturally

Understanding double vision

Diplopia (say it with us: duh·plow·pee·uh) may sound like a faraway land or a gourmet food, but it's actually a medical issue that affects the eyes. Diplopia, also called double vision, occurs when you see two images instead of one. Let's dive deeper into this visual problem below. 

What is double vision?

When you look at something, like a cat or your neighbor, you should see a single image. People with double vision see multiple images instead, and their vision is often blurry. Images may appear double horizontally, vertically, or even diagonally. Diplopia can happen due to medical conditions or be a temporary problem caused by stress or medications. 

Common causes of double vision

Several underlying medical conditions can lead to double vision, such as:

• Eye muscle problems, such as convergence insufficiency
• Nerve issues, such as cranial nerve damage from surgery or a brain injury
• Neurological conditions, such as multiple sclerosis or myasthenia gravis 
• Systemic diseases, such as hyperthyroidism

You may also notice double vision if you are tired, have low blood sugar, or are dealing with stress (like a boss who makes your life miserable, ugh). Viruses, prescription drugs, and over-the-counter supplements can affect your vision, too. An eye doctor can help you narrow down the culprit so you can avoid guessing games.

Natural remedies for double vision

Unfortunately, life with double vision isn't twice as fun as having regular vision. Before you blame your migraine on loud kids or road repairs, check if diplopia is the cause. Untreated double vision can cause annoying symptoms like headaches, nausea, dizziness, and brain fog. That's why people often wonder how to cure double vision naturally. 

Here are some natural remedies that may help your diplopia.

• Eye exercises for double vision: Pencil push-ups, Brock strings, and Hart charts can help strengthen eye muscles and improve coordination for some patients with double vision, such as adults or children with convergence insufficiency. 
• Nutrition and diet: A balanced diet rich in vitamins and antioxidants can help you maintain good eye health. Look for foods with beta-carotene, omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, lutein, and zeaxanthin. 
• Hydration: Proper hydration can help your eyes' lubrication and overall function, especially if you have diplopia worsened by dry eye syndrome. Drink plenty of water and use artificial tears or eye drops as needed.
• Eye massage and relaxation techniques: Gentle eye massage and relaxation methods, such as meditation or yoga nidra, may help relieve eye pain. Talk to your eye doctor before trying massage techniques, such as massaging the area around your eyes' sockets and nasal bones. 
• Home remedies: When used externally, warm compresses, castor oil, or aloe vera gel may not eliminate your double vision, but these remedies can help soothe aching eyes. Be careful not to get castor oil or aloe vera inside your eyes, as this can make vision problems worse.

Talk to your eye doctor if you need additional ideas for diplopia relief. Make sure you run any natural remedies by your medical team first, as home treatments can worsen other conditions or interact with prescription medications. Safety first, right?

Lifestyle changes and prevention

We know, we know — you've probably heard this before. But taking care of your physical and mental health can help prevent or relieve a number of issues, including double vision.

Here are some lifestyle changes that may help treat double vision or keep it from developing in the first place.

• Reducing screen time: Binge-watching your favorite show may seem like a great way to relax, but your eyes disagree. Reduce digital eye strain by limiting screen time on your smartphone, tablet, laptop, or television.
• Proper lighting and ergonomics: Bright lights can irritate your eyes, especially if you already have light sensitivity due to binocular vision dysfunction. A poorly designed workspace (stop hunching over your desk, okay?) can cause muscle tension and neck misalignment, which may worsen vision problems for some people.
• Restorative sleep: When you drift off to dreamland, your eyes get a well-deserved break. Plus, quality sleep helps improve your overall well-being, which can affect your eyes (in a good way, of course). REM cycles for the win!
• Regular eye checkups: Routine eye exams can help you detect and treat underlying eye problems. 

Double vision: You've got options 

Natural remedies, lifestyle adjustments, and preventive measures can help you manage the symptoms of diplopia. In fact, you may luck out and potentially cure your double vision with the right remedies, such as prism lenses or vision therapy. Always consult a health care professional for persistent or severe cases of double vision, especially if your diplopia is new. We want what's best for you. 

 

FAQs

Can double vision be a sign of a serious medical condition?

Don't panic just yet, but definitely have a doctor rule out serious medical issues like a stroke or brain tumor if you experience a sudden onset of double vision. You can also get double vision from diabetes, hypertension, and multiple sclerosis, so it doesn't hurt to give your doctor a call if you notice double vision or other vision problems. 

Are there any specific foods that can help improve my vision?

Hippocrates said, "Let food be thy medicine," and there are some foods that may improve your vision. Reach for nutrient-packed foods such as dark leafy greens (kale and broccoli), antioxidant-rich fruits (citrus fruits and wild blueberries), and foods with beta-carotene (carrots and sweet potatoes). Omega-3s may also help enhance your vision, so try some salmon or hemp seeds. 

When should I seek medical attention for my double vision?

Double vision — while sometimes just mildly inconvenient — is common but not normal. Always let your eye doctor and the rest of your medical team know ASAP if you experience vision changes, such as new or worsening double vision.