Nystagmus is the rapid, involuntary movement of the eyes in back-and-forth movements, up-and-down movements or rotary directions. The movements can be pendulum-like or jerky in fashion and can happen simultaneously in both eyes or in just a single eye. There are many causes of nystagmus. Those that are caused by injury, disease, drugs or alcohol are both reversible and irreversible. Genetic causes are not curable, but individuals can learn to live well with nystagmus.
Congenital
Nystagmus is a symptom of such congenital disorders as albinism and achromatopsia. The Mayo Clinic states that albinism is a collection of genetic disorders that affect the production of pigment in the body. Because pigment is needed to see, individuals with albinism have low vision and, universally, exhibit nystagmus. Achromatopsia is a genetic disorder that interferes with cone vision; individuals with achromatopsia may also have albinism. Nystagmus from either of these disorders begins very early after birth. If your baby seems to show signs of uncontrollable eye movements, consult your health care provider right away.
Drugs and Alcohol
Drugs taken to control seizures can also cause nystagmus, as can excessive use of alcohol. Once the medication or drinking is stopped, nystagmus typically reverses.
Trauma and Disease
Nystagmus can be caused by a stroke, multiple sclerosis or trauma, such as a motor vehicle accident. If the portion of the brain that controls eye movements is affected by the injury or disease process, nystagmus can occur. Nystagmus under these conditions is not usually reversible. If nystagmus is developed later in life (rather than a few weeks to months after birth), have your health care provider perform a complete physical.
