Nystagmus types and treatments

Friday, October 16th, 2009 at 2:11 pm Post in Eye Diseases

People with nystagmus have difficulty in focusing their eyes on an object or person. Their eyes always look involuntarily from side to side, up and down or sometimes jerk. Nystagmus is estimated to affect one out of several thousand children, usually from an early age.

There are many types of nystagmuses. Congenital nystagmus is born. The eyes of children who suffer from this type of nystagmus may move together or uncoordinatedly. Manifest nystagmus is present at all times while latent nystagmus occurs only when one eye is covered. Manifest-latent nystagmus is continually present, but worsens when one eye is covered. Acquired nystagmus can be caused by diseases, accidents or neurological problems. Other potential factors include hyperventilation, nicotine and even vibrations.

Most types of nystagmuses are born or develop in children’s early lives. People with nystagmus can not control their eyes and their vision and self-concept will be affected. Sweeping eyes are impossible to acquire clear images so that many nystagmus patients have severe vision problems. Nystagmus patients just see objects in a way that is profoundly different from other normal individuals so that their appearances are affected. It is also important for nystagmus patients to deal with personal and social consequences, since their relation with other people, educational and work opportunities can also under influence.

Except for disease reasons, most nystagmuses are caused by neurological problems. Optokinetic nystagmus and vestibular nystagmus are basic types of nystagmus. Vestibular nystagmus is always associated with inner eye problems. People with vestibular nystagmus have jerking eyes and may suffer from nausea and vertigo. Decongestant is a possible treatment.

Regular eye exams are critical for nystagmus patients, in order to get visual and health monitoring. For light nystagmuses, eyeglasses and contact lenses can provide better vision, while the latter type is more competent. Surgical treatments can reduce null positions, lessen head tilt and improve cosmetic appearance, while drugs such as Botox reduce some nystagmic movements.