Nystagmus

Below we explain what Nystagmus is, what the symptoms are, how the condition is assessed and any available treatment options.

Nystagmus is a continual to and fro movement of the eyes which cannot be controlled.  The movements can be in any direction and the eyes will look as though they are moving .  Although nystagmus is a problem with the parts of the brain that deal with eye movement rather than a problem with the eye itself, most people with nystagmus will have impaired vision .
There are two main types of nystagmus; developmental, appearing in the first few months of life; or acquired, coming on later in life.  This last can be the result of stroke, brain injury or other brain disease but occasionally the cause may not be found.

 

Symptoms

Symptoms vary widely depending on the underlying cause of the nystagmus.  In addition, people with nystagmus can experience their symptoms differently from day to day.

 

Assessment

Patients with nystagmus should be referred to an Ophthalmologist or Neurologist as appropriate.  Assessment and examination of the eyes will be carried out and further neurological testing may be required.

 

Treatment

Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the nystagmus.  Developmental nystagmus, generally improves with age, although very slowly, and there will be an equivalent improvement of vision. For acquired nystagmus, medication can improve some of the symptoms and occasionally surgery may be recommended .  However there is no fully curative treatment currently available .  Rehabilitation training and particular visual aids may be very helpful for acquired nystagmus.

 

Further reading and online information

www.rnib.org.uk
www.nystagmusnet.org

 

Accessibility

This information can be made available in Braille, or audio CD should you require it, from manchester@henshaws.org.uk

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The information has been researched and produced from independent and trusted sources. If you would like further information about these sources please contact manchester@henshaws.org.uk

 

Last updated: 18th January 2012
Date for review: 18th January 2014