Nystagmus, head tremor and double vision

I've struggled with double vision since last March and was being treated for "eye migraine". No medication worked, so my pcp referred me to the neurologist 2 weeks ago who knew immediately that it wasn't migraine. She referred me to the eye doctor. I saw an ophthalmologist today who couldn't find anything wrong with my eyes that would cause double vision. However, she did diagnose me with nystagmus and a head tremor. I have problems with tremor in my hands and neck, but this head tremor was a surprise. I've been referred to a neuro ophthalmologist to see if they can fix my double vision and check the nystagmus.

I don't have MS, but I know that folks with MS have these symptoms.

I need advice on how to keep living with these optic issues and tremors. Images are double and objects shake. I thought that today the eye doctor would fix me. I'm disappointed and frustrated.

I'm tired of relying on other people to drive me around, and they are, too. And I'm embarrassed by my tremors...when people ask about my tremor/shaking I just tell them that I had too much coffee. People seem to believe me, even though I don't drink coffee, so if they are perceptive they'll figure out that I'm lying.l

Thank you

Hi JaybirdNoel,

Double vision (diplopia) is either one eye (monocular) or both eyes (binocular). Binocular diplopia: covering one eye will make the double vision stop (vision is normal). Monocular: double vision does not go away when covering an eye. Both have different causes and to determine what may or may not help depends on the cause.

I have binocular diplopia, 3 years now (my eyes don't track together/misaligned). It's my left eye with one muscle affected. At first any glance to the right caused was horrible (more pain, double, unable to hold gaze) but over time is has improved but not gone away (normal with MS). I was prescribed Prisms and they helped for a few months then became irritating so I learned to deal.

Your Neuro-Ophthalmologist and possibly other Drs. would need to find the cause of your double vision before possible treatments could be recommended. Best wishes....

I had double vision as a symptom. It was caused by my teeth. Too many root canals and amalgam fillings. Got that taken care of and now my double vision is gone.

JaybirdNoel said...

I'm really looking forward to getting me eyes fixed! And the tremor, of course. But mostly my eyes so I can be independent again.

Please let us know how your appointment goes. Wishing you a positive outcome