Nystagmus: Rapid rhythmic repetitious involuntary (uncontrollable) eye
movements. Nystagmus can be horizontal, vertical or rotary and can effect one or
both eyes. This is caused by abnormal function in the area of the brain that controls
eye movement.
•
•
Forms of the Disease
–
–
Infantile or congenital: Most common and
usually present at birth. It can be inherited
or associated with a sensory deficit which
in turn is most likely responsible for the
greater part of vision loss. People affected
are not aware of their rapid eye
movements but instead are observed by
others.
Acquired Nystagmus : There are several
causes that lead to juvenile and adult
onset of nystagmus…
•
•
•
•
•
Inner ear disorders (labyrinthitis or Meniere’s
disease)
Toxic- drugs, medication (such as antiseizure
medications and sedating meds), alcohol
intoxication
Vertical
Head injury
Stroke (blood vessel blockage in the brain)
Diseases of the brain…multiple sclerosis or brain
tumors
Treatments and Modifications:
–
–
–
–
–
Movements of large magnitude may require
surgery to improve visual acuity.
Contacts or glasses can be worn to reduce
Congenital nystagmus.
Avoid emotional strain, such as stress, tiredness
or nervousness.
Angle of vision is important, eye muscle surgery
may improve the head position and allow for
better vision.
In most cases, nystagmus is irreversible, except
those caused by medication or alcohol.
intoxication.
or See Saw Nystagmus
Horizontal or Pendular Nystagmus
Downbeat Nystagmus
Jerk Nystagmus
Nystagmus
• Developed by Emily Diaz
– References
American Nystagmus Network. (2002, February 21). General Information about Nystsgmus. Retrieved
July 5, 2010, from http://www.nystagmus.org/aboutn.html
Nystagmus: Medline Plus Medical Encyclopedia. (2009, March 26). Nystsgmus. Retrieved July 5, 2010,
from http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/print/ency/article/003037.htm
Selected Anomalies and Diseases of the Eye. (1990). Nystsgmus. Retrieved July 5, 2010, from
http://www.tsbvi.edu/education/anomalies/nystagmus. htm
NYU Langone Medical Center. (2010). Nystsgmus. Retrieved July 5, 2010, from
http://www.med.nyu.edu/patientcare/library/article/nystagmus.html
Encyclopedia of Children’s Health. (2010). Nystsgmus. Retrieved July 5, 2010, from
http://www.healthofchildren.om/n-o/nystagmus.html