Nystagmus

Nystagmus is a condition in which the eyes make repeated, uncontrolled movements, often reducing vision.

Common symptoms

Involuntary eye movements (side to side, up and down, or circular), reduced vision, head tilts or turns to find a steadier viewpoint, and difficulty with balance.

Description

Nystagmus causes the eyes to move involuntarily in a rhythmic pattern. It can be present from birth or early infancy (congenital or infantile nystagmus), or develop later in life as a result of another condition affecting the brain, inner ear, or eyes.

The constant eye movement means the visual system cannot hold a steady image on the retina, which usually reduces visual acuity and can affect confidence in tasks such as reading, recognising faces, and getting around.

There is no cure, but a null point (a head posture where movement is reduced) can help some people, and treatments such as glasses, contact lenses, medication, or surgery may be considered in selected cases.