Nystagmus is a medical condition characterized by repetitive, uncontrolled, and involuntary eye movements. These eye movements may be rapid, jerky, or oscillatory in nature and can occur in both eyes simultaneously. Nystagmus can be classified into various types based on the direction of the eye movements, such as horizontal, vertical, rotary, or mixed.
This condition can be present at birth, known as congenital nystagmus, or can develop later in life, referred to as acquired nystagmus. Congenital nystagmus is often caused by abnormal eye development during infancy, while acquired nystagmus can be associated with certain neurological disorders, brain injuries, or as a side effect of medications.
People with nystagmus may experience reduced visual acuity, decreased depth perception, and difficulty with activities requiring steady eye movements like reading or driving. They might also exhibit head tilting or abnormal head postures, which can help mitigate the impact of the involuntary eye movements on their vision.
Treatment options for nystagmus are dependent on the underlying cause and can include corrective lenses, medications, surgery, or other therapeutic interventions. While nystagmus cannot be completely cured, management strategies aim to improve visual function, reduce symptoms, and enhance quality of life for individuals affected by this condition.
Overall, nystagmus is a medical term used to describe a condition where individuals experience uncontrollable, repetitive eye movements, impacting their vision and potentially requiring specific interventions for management.
