Imagine watching a tennis match in fast forward with only your eyes. Your eyes would bounce back and forth in an attempt to watch the ball. When this motion happens without your control, it is referred to as nystagmus. Nystagmus is a bouncing of the eyes either up and down or side to side, which may result in dizziness.
Nystagmus
Even though nystagmus results in bouncing of the eyes, your eyes may not be the underlying cause. Those who have nystagmus either have been born with the condition, or it is the result of trauma or disease. Nystagmus is almost always a neurological problem with the eyes or the inner ear. If it is inner ear related, nystagmus can produce episodes of vertigo or dizziness.
Dizziness
When your eyes move and your body does not, the signals to your brain may cause your mind to believe you are in motion. If your eyes are moving quickly, the spinning sensation may result in dizziness. Inner ear disorders such as Meniere's disease or Benign paroxysmal position vertigo can present as nystagmus when your body is placed in certain positions. The treatment for this dizziness is uncomfortable as it typically causes nystagmus during the exercise.
Semont Maneuver
Your physician may try the Semont Maneuver to help reduce dizziness. This exercise begins with you sitting upright on an examination table. The doctor will hold your head at a 45-degree angle. Your doctor will quickly lay you on your side with your head slightly hanging off the edge of the table. Your eyes may begin nystagmus and you will remain in that position until the eye bouncing stops. The doctor will then quickly sit you upright and lie you down on the opposite side for approximately three minutes or until the dizziness subsides. You will return to an upright position and will be asked to remain with your head upright throughout the day.
Epley Maneuver
The Epley Maneuver is another exercise treatment option that your doctor may attempt to eliminate dizziness. You will begin in a seated position on the examination table with your head held at a 45-degree angle. Your doctor will tilt you backwards and you will remain on your back with your head hanging off the table until dizziness subsides. The doctor will turn your head 90 degrees and roll you onto your side so that you are looking at the floor. You may experience vertigo and the doctor will hold you in this position until the vertigo stops. The doctor will then help you up to a seated position and tilt your head down 30 degrees.
