Question
My mother has been having double vision and her optometrist says he can do nothing more for her. (She is in very good health and will be 102 years old in 3 months.) She has a dry eye condition for which she takes prescription drops and had cataract surgery 4-5 years ago. I would like her to see an ophthalmologist but in looking at the State Ophthalmology Board list, it is organized by area of practice focus (such as cataract, retina, cornea, general) and specialty. Which area of specialty would be a good choice for her to see?
Answer
Double vision or diplopia can be caused by many conditions such as stroke, ministroke (CVA), cardiovascular insufficiency, extraocular muscle paresis or palsy, diabetes mellitus. Because of your mom's age, prisms should first be tried. Another optometric physician or general ophthalmogist would be a good start. hope this helps
Dr. Ken
FYI: MS or multiple Sclerosis also can cause double vision, but usually in much younger persons
