Nystagmus is an eye condition in which the eyes move repeatedly without control. The movements can be fast or slow and eyes may go from side to side, up and down or in a circular way. As the eyes do not stay still, it becomes difficult to focus on objects, leading to blurry vision. Some people may also feel that objects around them are moving.
Types of Nystagmus
Nystagmus is primarily divided into two types.
1. Congenital: This type occurs in babies, usually within the first six months after birth. Those with congenital nystagmus often adjust to it and may not notice any movement in their vision.
2. Acquired: This type develops later in life and is often linked to another underlying health issue. Those with acquired nystagmus are more likely to feel that their surroundings are moving.
Causes of Nystagmus
The causes of nystagmus vary and can be related to problems in the brain, the inner ear or the eyes. Some common causes include:
1. Conditions affecting the brain areas that control eye movement: There arecertain areas in the brain that control the movements and stability of the eyes. Multiple sclerosis, brain tumours, cerebellar damage and other neurological conditions can affect these brain areas, preventing the brain from sending clear signals and causing the eyes to move without control.
2. Inner ear disorders :The inner ear helps control balance and keep eye movements stable. When it is affected by conditions like Meniere’s disease, it can send incorrect balance signals, leading to shaky or blurry vision.
3. Poor vision from birth: Some children are born with weak or unclear vision. As their eyes cannot focus clearly, they may move more, trying to find a clearer image, which can lead to nystagmus.
4. Head injuries: A head injury can damage the parts of the brain that control eye movement. This may suddenly affect the eyes’ ability to stay steady, leading to nystagmus.
5. Stroke: A stroke can interrupt blood flow to the brain and damage important areas. When the areas controlling eye movement are affected, it can cause uncontrolled eye movements.
6. Side effects of certain medicines: Some medicines can affect the brain or nervous system and interfere with normal eye control, leading to unwanted eye movements.
7. Alcohol or drug misuse: Alcohol and drugs can slow down or disturb brain function. This affects coordination and control, potentially causing the eyes to move abnormally.
In some cases, doctors may not find a clear cause even after conducting several tests. This is referred to as idiopathic nystagmus, a condition with no known cause.
Symptoms of Nystagmus
Although the primary sign is uncontrolled eye movements, other symptoms include:
- Blurry, unclear or shaky vision
- Difficulty focusing on objects
- Reduced ability to judge distance
- Sensitivity to bright light
- Trouble with balance or coordination
- A need to tilt or turn the head for better vision
- Oscillopsia, a feeling as if your surroundings are moving or shaking
- Vertigo, a feeling as if you’re spinning or feeling dizzy
- Eye strain or fatigue
Diagnosis of Nystagmus
A thorough eye examination is needed to diagnose this eye condition, which includes:
- Checking vision using eye charts
- Observing eye movements
- Looking inside the eye with special tools
- Conducting scans, such as an MRI, to detect potential brain diseases
- Carrying out tests for balance and hearing
All these tests help an eye care specialist to understand the cause and determine the next course of action.
Treatment for Nystagmus
There is no complete cure for most cases of nystagmus. However, proper treatment can help manage symptoms and correct vision.
1. Glasses or contact lenses: They can help correct vision problems, enabling the eyes to see better.
2. Medication: Some medicines may help reduce the intensity of eye movements in acquired nystagmus.
3. Surgery: Eye muscle surgery can adjust the position of the eyes, making vision more stable.
4. Managing the cause: If nystagmus is due to another health problem, treating that underlying issue may reduce symptoms of this eye condition.
When to see a doctor?
Medical advice should be sought if:
- Eye movements begin suddenly
- Vision becomes worse over time
- A child’s eyes move unusually or do not stay steady
Frequently Asked Questions
How serious is nystagmus?
Although this eye condition affects vision, hampering daily activities, it is usually not life-threatening and can be managed with proper treatment.
What happens if nystagmus is left untreated?
If left untreated, this eye condition may cause persistent blurry vision, difficulty in focusing, reading, depth perception and hand-eye coordination.
Can nystagmus lead to blindness?
No, it does not usually cause blindness, though any underlying condition associated with it may impact vision if not treated.
Disclaimer: The advice in this article is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical care or an in-person check-up. Please check with an eye care professional before purchasing any products or remedies. For information on our article review process, please refer to our Editorial Policy.
Tina Patel is a qualified Contact Lens Optician at Feel Good Contacts with over 25 years of experience in the optical industry. She is a member of ABDO and registered with the GOC. Tina holds a BSc. (Hons) in Optical Management from Anglia Ruskin University and qualified as a Dispensing Optician in 2002. In 2007, she further specialised by completing advanced training in contact lenses, gaining her qualification as a Contact Lens Optician. She now shares her clinical expertise through teaching at City, University of London, guiding future opticians.
