Nystagmus Facts for Kids

Nystagmus, sometimes called "dancing eyes."

Nystagmus is an eye condition that makes your eyes move in a fast, uncontrolled way. This movement is often side-to-side, but it can also be up and down or in a circle. People sometimes call it "dancing eyes" because of how the eyes move.

Most people with nystagmus have vision that isn't as clear as others. This can make some daily activities, like reading or seeing things far away, a bit harder. While glasses or contact lenses can't stop the eye movements, they can help correct other vision problems that a person might have.

What Causes Nystagmus?
- Infantile Nystagmus Syndrome
- Acquired Nystagmus
How Does Nystagmus Affect Vision?
Treatments and Research
Images for kids
See also

What Causes Nystagmus?

There are two main types of nystagmus, based on when it starts:

Infantile Nystagmus Syndrome

This type of nystagmus is often present from birth or develops in the first few months of life. It's called Infantile Nystagmus Syndrome (INS). Doctors don't always know why it happens, but it's not caused by an injury or illness later in life.

Acquired Nystagmus

This type of nystagmus develops later in life, not at birth. It's called acquired nystagmus because it's caused by something else. Some common reasons for acquired nystagmus include:

A head injury.
Problems with the inner ear, which helps with balance.
Certain health conditions that affect the brain's control over eye movements. These might include conditions like multiple sclerosis or a growth in the brain.
Sometimes, a lack of certain important vitamins can also be a cause.

How Does Nystagmus Affect Vision?

People with nystagmus usually don't see the world as constantly shaking or moving. Their brain learns to adapt to the eye movements. However, they might notice things moving occasionally.

Here are some other important facts about nystagmus:

People with nystagmus often have difficulty seeing things clearly from a distance.
However, many people with nystagmus have good vision for things that are close up.
Nystagmus is not a painful condition.
It is quite rare, affecting about 1 to 2 people out of every 2,000.
Nystagmus can sometimes be passed down in families, meaning it's hereditary. But it can also happen without a family history.
For most people, nystagmus does not get worse as they get older.
Many people with nystagmus can see well enough to drive a car safely.

Treatments and Research

Currently, there isn't a simple cure for nystagmus. However, scientists and doctors are always working to learn more about this condition.

Organizations like the UK Nystagmus Network support and encourage new medical research. Universities are also doing important studies to find better ways to help people with nystagmus.