Seeing Double

Edith* is 72 years old and had a stroke 6 weeks ago.  She recovered surprisingly quickly from the physical weakness but now has double vision (diplopia), mostly horizontal.  This means Edith sees two images side by side.  She also notices the ground curves and slopes.

Edith has trouble seeing street signs beyond 6 metres and can no longer read the subtitles on TV.  At work she is struggling to see up close.

Edith was prescribed multifocal glasses at a corporate Optometry practice.  She was disappointed with their service as she was always seeing a different optometrist on each visit.  She was looking for continuity of care.

Optometrist findings

After a thorough eye examination by Dr Nick, it was discovered Edith’s double vision was caused by a change in the position of her extra ocular muscles following her stroke.  However, Edith’s double vision was made worse because one of her eyes was short sighted and the other long sighted.

Fortunately, Edith had no visual field loss, which is common for sufferers of stroke to develop.

Recommendations

A new prescription for multifocal glasses was prescribed, and a separate single vision near glasses to be used for office work.

Dr Nick recommended a deeper frame to provide more visual field for Edith, to further enhance all her activities.

Results

The new prescription has corrected Edith’s double vision, almost to the point where she does not notice it.  The glasses for work, have helped her perform at her job better.

Edith says ‘I am so glad I had my double vision looked at by Dr Nick.  It was affecting the quality of my life and now I can go about my daily life without any problems’.

Do you have any concerns with your vision?  A quick phone call to Dr Nick can determine whether you need further assistance.  Call our team now on 4369 8169!

*The name has been changed to protect the identity of the patient.