Do I Have Nystagmus?

Do you have rapid eye movements that cannot be controlled?

Do you have uncontrollable eye movements in both eyes?

Does your eye moves side to side, up and down or circular?

Do you have increased sensitivity to light?

Do you have dizziness?

Do you have difficulty seeing in the dark?

Do you have vision problems?

Do you need to hold your head in a turned or tilted position to see well?

Do you have the feeling that “the world is shaking?”

Based on your answers it is unlikely that you have nystagmus. Nystagmus is a medical condition characterized by rapid and uncontrollable eye movements. These pathological movements usually affect both eyes. The eyes can move side to side (horizontal nystagmus), up and down (vertical nystagmus) or in a circle (rotary nystagmus). The speed of eye movement can range from slow to fast and nystagmus intensifies when you look in a certain direction. Nystagmus is usually a sign of another medical condition including various eye problems stroke multiple sclerosis, Menier’s disease, inner ear problems and head injuries. Certain medications and alcohol and drug use can also cause nystagmus.

Based on your answers there is a possibility that you have nystagmus. Nystagmus, also known as “dancing eyes”, is a condition in which you cannot control the movements of your eyes. Nystagmus can be congenital and acquired. Congenital nystagmus appears in infants between the age of 6 weeks and 3 months. Children usually have blurred vision due to nystagmus. Acquired nystagmus occurs later in life and it is often associated with alcohol or drug use, or a serious health condition. Adults with nystagmus usually describe objects around them as shaky. A diagnosis is made by an ophthalmologist based on an eye examination and additional tests.

Based on your answers there is a high possibility that you have nystagmus. Nystagmus is a medical condition that refers to involuntary eye movements due to various health problems. People with nystagmus have impaired vision and they usually tilt or turn their heads while looking at something. This motion helps them to slow down the eye movements and see more clearly. Treating nystagmus involves treating the underlying cause. People born with this condition (congenital nystagmus) cannot be cured, but they can benefit from wearing glasses or contact lenses. People with nystagmus must have their eyes examined regularly to monitor their vision problems.