Nystagmus FAQs
What is nystagmus?
Nystagmus is a vision condition characterised by involuntary, rapid, and repetitive eye movements. These movements can occur side-to-side, up and down, or in a circular pattern. This can affect how clearly you can see and many people can have reduced vision.
What causes nystagmus?
Nystagmus can be congenital (present at birth) or acquired later in life due to neurological conditions, inner ear disorders, eye muscle problems, medications, or certain systemic diseases.
What are the symptoms of nystagmus?
Vision can vary with nystagmus depending on where you are looking or how you are also feeling.
Symptoms include:
- Shaky or jumpy vision
- Difficulty maintaining steady vision
- Reduced visual acuity
- Sensitivity to light
- Poor depth perception
- Dizziness
Is nystagmus a common condition?
Nystagmus affects a relatively small percentage of the population, with congenital nystagmus being more common than acquired nystagmus.
Can nystagmus be treated?
While there is no cure for nystagmus, treatment options focus on managing symptoms and improving visual function. These may include corrective lenses, vision therapy, medications, or surgery in some cases.
Can nystagmus affect daily activities?
Nystagmus can affect activities such as reading, driving, and maintaining balance, especially in cases where vision is significantly impaired. Depending on how much of a person’s sight is affected by nystagmus, they may be eligible to be registered as sight impaired (partially sighted) or severely sight impaired (blind).
What support is available for individuals with nystagmus?
Support groups, educational resources, and assistive technologies such as magnifiers, screen readers, and specialised eyewear can help individuals manage nystagmus and maintain independence in daily life.
