How Do Blackout Contacts Help Double Vision?

Binocular diplopia, commonly known as double vision, is a condition where an individual sees two images of a single object. This issue is often associated with a serious health problem that requires immediate medical attention. Blackout contacts provide a solution to this vision problem.

Causes of Binocular Diplopia

Binocular diplopia can be caused by a variety of factors, ranging from neurological conditions to physical injuries. It could be due to a muscle imbalance in which the muscles that move the eyes do not work together. Common causes include strabismus, diabetes, stroke, brain tumors, and trauma to the eye or face.

Strabismus, often diagnosed in childhood, can persist into adulthood or can appear later in life. In adults, it may result from conditions that directly damage the nerves, such as diabetes or high blood pressure. Neurological issues like Guillain-Barre syndrome or multiple sclerosis can also lead to double vision.

Sometimes, binocular diplopia can be a sign of an emergency medical condition. For instance, a head injury, aneurysm, or brain tumor may cause sudden double vision. If you experience sudden double vision, you should seek immediate medical attention.

Exploring Treatment Options for Binocular Diplopia

Treatment for double vision depends on the underlying cause. In some cases, treating the root cause may eliminate the double vision. For instance, if the issue stems from diabetes, managing blood sugar levels might help. For strabismus, treatments such as eye exercises, vision therapy, corrective glasses, or surgery may be recommended.

What are Blackout Contacts?

Blackout contacts, also known as opaque contact lenses, are designed to block out all light entering one eye. Blackout contacts are made of a material that prevents light from passing through the lens. The front of the lens is usually painted black or another dark color to block out light. They are designed to fit comfortably on the eye, just like regular contact lenses.

These lenses can be used to treat a variety of vision problems, including double vision. They are often recommended when other treatment options have failed or are not suitable.

How Do Blackout Contacts Help Double Vision?

If you are wondering how blackout contacts help double vision, the answer lies in their unique design and functionality. Blackout contacts work by blocking the vision in one eye, essentially turning off the input from that eye to the brain. This prevents the brain from receiving two conflicting images, thus eliminating double vision.

In medical terms, this is known as occlusion therapy. The idea is to force the brain to rely on the image from the good eye. Although it may take some time to adjust, most patients find that they can manage quite well with vision from one eye.

Blackout contacts can be a practical solution for those who have tried other treatments without success. They can also be a good option for those who are not candidates for surgery or other invasive treatments.

Benefits of Using Blackout Contacts for Binocular Diplopia

Using blackout contacts for binocular diplopia comes with several benefits. First, they provide an immediate solution to double vision. Unlike other treatments, which may require time to see results, blackout contacts work instantly.

Secondly, they are non-invasive. Compared to surgical procedures, using blackout contacts is a simple, painless process. They also eliminate the need for bulky eye patches, which can be uncomfortable and conspicuous.

Lastly, blackout contacts can be used intermittently. This means you can remove them when they are not needed, such as when sleeping or in low-light situations where double vision may not be as problematic.

Consulting a Professional about Your Double Vision

Binocular diplopia can be a distressing condition, but there are various treatment options available. Among them, blackout contacts offer a non-invasive, immediate solution to this vision problem. As with any treatment, it's essential to consult with an eye doctor to determine the best course of action for your specific situation.

If you are experiencing double vision, consult our doctor about blackout contacts as a possible solution. Visit Houston Dry Eye Clinic at our Houston, Texas, office. Call (713) 664-4760 to schedule an appointment today.