How does nystagmus happen

Depending on the cause, these movements may be in both eyes or in just one eye. The term "dancing eyes" has been used in regional dialect to describe nystagmus. The involuntary eye movements of nystagmus are caused by abnormal function in the areas of the brain that control eye movements. The part of the inner ear that senses movement and position the labyrinth helps control eye movements. Congenital nystagmus is usually mild, does not change in severity, and is not associated with any other disorder.

Affected people are not aware of the eye movements, although they may be noticed by a careful observer. Surgery may improve visual acuity. Rarely, nystagmus occurs as a result of congenital diseases of the eye that cause poor vision. Although this is rare, an ophthalmologist should evaluate any child with nystagmus to check for eye disease. This is the most common type. A child is born with it. Symptoms appear soon after birth. It may be caused by:. Sensory problems.

Vision problems, such as a clouded eye lens cataracts or increased pressure in the eye glaucoma , may cause nystagmus. Another possible cause is a problem with the light-sensing layer of nerves in the back of the eye the retina. Or there may be a problem with the nerve that connects the eye to the brain the optic nerve.

Neurologic problems. Problems in the brain can cause nystagmus. This is because the brain and the eyes must work closely together for good vision. Other conditions. Disorders linked to nystagmus include a lack of pigment in the skin and eyes albinism.

Another cause may be not having an iris, or colored part, in the eye aniridia. Eye movement may be more obvious and annoying. Blurry vision may happen. Depth perception may also be affected. This can harm balance and coordination. It can also cause dizziness. To book an appointment please use our Book Appointment link. For general inquiries, please email us at [email protected] and a member of our staff will return your email promptly.

We Are Open For Business. Click to Learn More. What is Nystagmus? Types of Nystagmus Nystagmus can be divided into 2 main types, congenital nystagmus and acquired nystagmus. Acquired or Acute Nystagmus Acquired or acute nystagmus can be caused by injury or disease and can develop at any age.

Causes of Nystagmus A variety of factors can cause nystagmus, and depending on the form can either be present from birth or can develop over time. Some of the causes of this eye condition may include: Genetic factors.

A head injury Brain inflammation, particularly if it occurs in regions responsible for eye movement. A stroke. Some medications, including seizure medication and sedatives. Excessive alcohol use. Problems or disorders associated with the inner ear or brain. Symptoms of Nystagmus If you suspect that you, or someone you know, may be suffering from nystagmus, you should make an appointment with an optometrist as soon as possible.

Symptoms of nystagmus include: Uncontrolled eye movement. This movement is unpredictable and may cause your eyes to move slowly, then quickly, and then slowly again. Vision problems. Depending on the root cause of your nystagmus, you may experience vision problems.

Some patients can see clearly, while others may experience vision problems either regularly or under certain circumstances such as when they are feeling stressed or anxious.

Some patients report feeling dizzy all the time, while some only experience bouts of dizziness. Reduced depth perception or balance issues. Some patients report not being able to accurately judge visual distances or have poor fine motor skills, and some patients may experience problems with their balance or coordination.

Nystagmus is an involuntary rhythmic side-to-side, up and down or circular motion of the eyes that occurs with a variety of conditions. Nystagmus most commonly affects both of the eyes. It may only last seconds, or may be permanent. There are two types of nystagmus. In pendular nystagmus, the eye motion is like a pendulum swinging back and forth. Jerk nystagmus, the more common type, is characterized by eyes that drift slowly in one direction and then jerk back the other way.