Vision problems are common in the chronic disease multiple sclerosis. Double vision MS is just one of the vision symptoms that can be experienced throughout the course of the disease. Affecting one or both of the eyes, double vision multiple sclerosis can keep someone from completely their daily activities. It can be a frustrating problem for people with the autoimmune disease, and unfortunately it can sometimes be a waiting game in order for it to go away.
Many times, double vision will be caused by optic neuritis. Optic neuritis is a condition that is associated with multiple sclerosis, and it is estimated that over half of the people with the disease will experience it at some point throughout the course of their disease. This condition occurs when demyelination damages the optic nerve, which is responsible for transmitting light and images from the eye to the brain.
Double vision can also occur due to muscle weakness. Muscle weakness is common in multiple sclerosis due to the overall damage to the nervous system. If one muscle becomes weak while another is unaffected, this can cause double vision. This is also the reason that double vision may also only be present in one eye.
Treatment Options for Double Vision
Sometimes, vision problems will go away very quickly on their own. However, it is still important to mention them to your doctor. Keeping a record of symptoms is important for a patient with multiple sclerosis, and that includes any vision problems that may occur. Vision problems that continue to occur may be a sign that your multiple sclerosis is getting worse, you are experiencing a flare, or you are advancing to another stage, and proper action should be taken by you and your medical professional.
In other cases, a vision problem such as double vision may be able to be treated with certain drugs or other therapies. This is usually only the case if an extended period of time has passed and the double vision has not cleared up on its own. However, most cases of double vision are temporary and not much can be done for the condition. Patients will have to wait for the condition to clear up on its own. During this time, they can ask for help from caregivers and loved ones if it is severely interfering with their daily routine.
