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Warning-sign checks

Double vision: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Call emergency services if sudden double vision occurs with:

    • Facial drooping, arm or leg weakness, numbness, or speech difficulty
    • Severe imbalance, confusion, fainting, or reduced alertness
    • A sudden, unusually severe headache
    • A newly enlarged pupil or marked eyelid drooping
    • Significant head or eye injury
    • Sudden loss of vision

    And for anyone, someone who:

    • has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Arrange same-day urgent medical assessment if double vision begins suddenly, even if you otherwise feel well.

    Do not drive yourself while your vision is doubled.

    Seek same-day care for double vision with a new headache, scalp tenderness, or jaw pain while chewing, particularly if you are over 50.

    These symptoms may indicate inflammation of blood vessels supplying the eye.

    Children with suspected double vision or a new eye turn should be assessed promptly, even if they cannot describe their symptoms.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Book a routine appointment if double vision develops gradually, returns, or does not clear.

    Also seek assessment for a new eye turn, persistent ghosting in one eye, or difficulty with tasks such as reading.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Double vision. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.