Understanding Nystagmus: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Nystagmus, also known as "dancing eyes," is a condition where you experience uncontrollable eye movements. These movements can be up and down, side to side, or in a circular motion. If you or your child have been diagnosed with nystagmus, it's essential to understand the causes, symptoms, and available treatment options.

Causes of Nystagmus

Nystagmus can be present from birth or develop later in life. Some common causes include:

• Genetic factors passed down from parents

• Other eye issues, such as cataracts or strabismus

• Diseases like stroke, multiple sclerosis, or Meniere's disease

• Head injuries

• Albinism (lack of skin pigment)

• Inner ear problems

• Certain medications, like lithium or drugs for seizures

• Alcohol or drug use

In some cases, the exact cause of nystagmus may be unknown.

Symptoms of Nystagmus

The primary symptom of nystagmus is uncontrollable eye movements. These movements can be fast, slow, or a combination of both, and usually affect both eyes. Other symptoms may include:

• Nodding or tilting the head to focus better

• Blurred vision (more common in children)

• Appearance of a shaky world (more common in adults)

• Difficulty seeing in the dark

• Sensitivity to bright light

• Problems with balance and dizziness, especially when tired or stressed

Diagnosing Nystagmus

If you suspect that you or your child may have nystagmus, consult an eye doctor. They will examine the eyes, test vision, and look for other eye problems. Additional tests may include:

• Ear exam

• Neurological exam

• Brain MRI or CT scan

• Recording of eye movements

Your doctor may also perform a spinning test, where you'll be asked to spin in a chair for about 30 seconds, stop, and then try to stare at an object. If you have nystagmus, your eyes will move slowly in one direction and then quickly in the other.

Treatment Options for Nystagmus

Treatment for nystagmus depends on the underlying cause and the age at which it developed. For adults who developed nystagmus later in life, simple lifestyle changes like stopping certain medications or quitting alcohol or drug use may help lessen the effects.

Other treatment options include:

• Wearing the correct contacts or glasses to improve vision

• Eye muscle surgery to help with head tilting and potentially improve vision

• Medications like gabapentin, baclofen, or Botox to ease symptoms in adults (not recommended for children)

• LASIK or Visian ICL for people with severe nearsightedness

Living with Nystagmus

If you or your child have nystagmus, there are several ways to make daily life easier:

• Use large-print books and increase the font size on digital devices

• Ensure adequate lighting to improve vision

• Encourage children to use their eyes with brightly colored, noise-making, and textured toys

• Allow children to hold books close to their eyes and tilt their head as needed

• Use hats or tinted glasses to reduce glare, even indoors

• Communicate with your child's teacher to make accommodations at school, such as choosing a seat with a clear view of the board and teacher

For more information on nystagmus, consult the following resources:

• American Academy of Ophthalmology - What Is Nystagmus?

• NHS - Nystagmus

• National Organization for Rare Disorders - Nystagmus

If you or your child have been diagnosed with nystagmus, remember that you are not alone. Work closely with your eye doctor and other healthcare professionals to find the best treatment options and strategies to manage this condition and maintain the best possible quality of life.