Eyes that do not move together (ocular deviation)

Normally, the six muscles surrounding each eye work together to move both eyes in the same direction at the same time. If one or both of your eyes do not move normally, you may have:

  • Eye movement that causes double vision (diplopia). Diplopia can occur when the eye muscles don't move together in unison. Double vision that occurs suddenly can be very serious and needs urgent medical evaluation.
  • Eyes that do not move in unison or will not move into certain positions (strabismus).
  • Eyes that move on their own without control (nystagmus).

Some medical conditions, such as diabetes, stroke, multiple sclerosis, myasthenia gravis, or thyroid disease, may keep the eyes from moving together normally. A head injury may also cause ocular deviation.



Author: Jan Nissl, RN, BSLast Updated: December 6, 2007
Medical Review: William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine
Christopher J. Rudnisky, MD, FRCSC - Ophthalmology

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