Can Double Vision Be Caused by Eye Strain or Fatigue? When to See Your Optometrist

Noticing double vision after a long day on the computer or reading for hours can be alarming. While it might seem like just another side effect of a busy day, it’s important to understand what your eyes are trying to tell you. At Eyewellniss, we often hear questions like, “Is this just fatigue, or something more serious?” Let’s explore how eye strain and tiredness can contribute to double vision and when it’s time to see your optometrist.
 

Understanding Double Vision

Double vision can affect one eye (monocular) or both eyes (binocular). Binocular double vision is typically the more serious of the two and often involves problems with eye alignment or coordination between the eyes. Monocular double vision is usually linked to issues with the eye itself, such as dry eye or irregularities in the lens or cornea.
 

Can Eye Strain or Fatigue Cause Double Vision?

Yes, in some cases, eye strain or fatigue can cause temporary double vision. Prolonged focus on digital screens, reading without breaks, or poor lighting can overwork the muscles that control eye movement. This can result in misalignment and blurred or double vision.
 

Fatigue weakens your ability to maintain focus and coordination between your eyes. When your visual system becomes overworked, it may struggle to keep both eyes aligned properly, especially if you already have a minor eye teaming issue that typically goes unnoticed.
 

However, double vision caused by strain or fatigue usually resolves after rest, blinking, or taking a break from the visual task. If the symptom persists or becomes more frequent, it could be a sign of a deeper issue.
 

When Is Double Vision a Sign of Something More Serious?

While temporary double vision from fatigue is not uncommon, ongoing or recurring double vision can point to underlying conditions such as:
 

• Eye muscle imbalance or strabismus
• Nerve damage or cranial nerve palsies
• Uncontrolled diabetes or high blood pressure
• Eye conditions like cataracts or corneal irregularities

If your double vision is accompanied by headaches, dizziness, difficulty focusing, or eye pain, it’s time to seek professional evaluation.
 

When to See Your Optometrist

You should schedule an eye exam if:
 

• Your double vision occurs frequently or does not go away with rest
• You experience it in just one eye
• It is accompanied by other symptoms such as eye pain, headaches, or vision loss
• You’ve recently had an injury or trauma
• You have existing health conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure

At Eyewellniss, we use advanced diagnostic tools to determine the cause of your double vision and recommend the appropriate treatment. Whether the issue stems from something as simple as digital eye strain or indicates a more complex condition, we’re here to help you see clearly and comfortably again.
 

Schedule Your Comprehensive Eye Exam Today

While double vision from eye strain or fatigue may be temporary, it should never be dismissed - especially if it becomes frequent or persistent. Any change in how you see could signal that they need support or care.
 

Schedule a comprehensive eye exam with Eyewellniss and let us help you get to the root of your double vision and protect your long-term eye health. Visit any of our offices in Edgewater, Livingston, Watchung, or Paramus, New Jersey. Please call (201) 945-8931, (973) 535-1171, (908) 322-5020 or (201) 712-0888 to book an appointment today.