Nystagmus is an involuntary eye movement disorder that includes uncontrollable rapid eye activity from side-to-side, up and down or in rotational directions, in one or both eyes. Caused by abnormal brain functions, nystagmus is either present at birth, or acquired later through injury or disease. Common causes for younger people include head injuries from motorcycle accidents or intoxication from alcohol. Older people commonly trace nystagmus to certain medications or stroke.
Treatment
Congenital nystagmus, or nystagmus present from birth, normally has no therapy, but is generally mild and unassociated with other disorders. "The Journal of Neural Transmissions" has published research, however, suggesting that eliminating synthetic foods such as colors and dyes from your diet may help treat symptoms. Acquired nystagmus therapy differs depending on the cause. Contact lenses, glasses or prisms are sometimes prescribed to assist with symptoms, but do not offer a cure. Motion sickness medications also offer some relief of symptoms, but becomes less effective after continuous use.
Eye Pushups
Indirect therapy may be beneficial to aid nystagmus symptoms, according to Women Fitness. At home, take an object, like the tip of a pencil, and slowly bring the object closer to your face until it is almost impossible to focus. Hold the object and your focus on it for 10 seconds. Repeat this exercise 10 times, two to four times per day until symptoms improve.
Head Tilts
Nystagmus is often accompanied by vertigo that can be treated with simple exercise. From a sitting position, tilt your head quickly -- but not fast enough to cause neck injury -- and rest your head on a pillow for 30 seconds or until dizziness has subsided. Return your head to an upright, centered position. Switch sides and rest your head on a pillow with the opposite ear down for 30 seconds. Repeat for a total of 20 repetitions, twice per day.
Your Doctor
Nystagmus is diagnosed by an optometrist that will review your medical history, test vision acuity and check to see how your eyes are working together. To properly treat nystagmus, the root cause needs to be determined. Your optometrist may refer you to your family doctor. Additional testing such as a CT-Scan, MRI, Electro-oculography or Vestibular testing may be required to diagnose the cause and predict treatment for your eyes. Once the cause is treated, your eye condition will usually go away as well.
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