What is nystagmus

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Nystagmus Network Tel: Website: www. Nystagmus Nystagmus is a rhythmical, repetitive and involuntary movement of the eyes. There is no cure for nystagmus. Each case of nystagmus will vary in severity and symptoms and reduced vision is common. Medical information Ophthalmology information for parents and visitors.

Last review date:. Disclaimer Please note this is a generic GOSH information sheet so should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. Useful documents Download Nystagmus Clinical specialty Find out more about the Opthalmology specialty including clinic information, staff members and contact details. Once the root cause of your nystagmus has been determined, your doctor and optometrist will work together to determine how your condition can be managed or treated.

Which treatment is best for your nystagmus depends on the root cause of your condition. If your nystagmus is caused by another underlying condition, then treating that underlying condition should treat your nystagmus as well. Once your nystagmus has been diagnosed, your optometrist or ophthalmologist will suggest an appropriate treatment.

Congenital nystagmus cannot be treated, but it may be managed using glasses or contact lenses, or by ensuring your workspace is well lit. This form of nystagmus will typically disappear as your child grows, but more severe cases may require surgery to reposition the muscles responsible for eye movement. Acquired nystagmus may be treated using a variety of methods.

Which method is right for you depends on the root cause of your condition. For instance, some patients with nystagmus find that their condition prevents them from driving, inhibits their ability to perform personal care tasks, or limits their ability to perform certain jobs. However, with time and the right support, many patients learn to live with nystagmus and minimize its impact on their daily lives.

There are also a variety of steps patients can take to limit the effect nystagmus has on their lives. Some patients wear hats or sunglasses indoors to reduce glare or depend on or magnifying aids so they can read small text.

Many books are also available in large text formats, and word size can easily be adjusted on most phones, tablets, and computers. If you or your child is living with nystagmus, there are ways to minimize its impact on your life. Your optometrist can help you get the proper diagnosis and treatment for nystagmus. He established Park Slope Eye in with the goal of providing high quality eyecare and incredible eyewear for the neighborhood. He has a true passion for optometry and stay up to date with the current research and trends.

He is active in the profession and holds several leadership positions on the local, state and national levels. Bazan is a Park Slope local and can often be seen out in the neighborhood so be sure to say Hi next time you see him!

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It does not become more severe, and it is not related to any other disorder. People with this condition are usually not aware of the eye movements, but other people may see them. Surgery may improve vision. Nystagmus may be caused by congenital diseases of the eye.

Although this is rare, an eye doctor ophthalmologist should evaluate any child with nystagmus to check for eye disease. The most common cause of acquired nystagmus is certain drugs or medicines.

Phenytoin Dilantin - an antiseizure medicine, excessive alcohol, or any sedating medicine can impair the labyrinth's function. You may need to make changes in the home to help with dizziness , visual problems , or nervous system disorders. Call your health care provider if you have symptoms of nystagmus or think you might have this condition. Your provider will take a careful history and perform a thorough physical examination, focusing on the nervous system and inner ear.

The provider may ask you to wear a pair of goggles that magnify your eyes for part of the examination. 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. Doctors may notice nystagmus in a person being evaluated for dizziness, vertigo and other balance problems affecting the inner ear.

Oscillopsia, or the illusory sensation that the stationary visual world is moving, is the major symptom experienced by patients with nystagmus.