---
title: Nystagmus
description: "Nystagmus is involuntary, rhythmic movement of the eyes, which can be horizontal, vertical, rotary, or mixed. It may be present from early infancy or acquired later in life. ## Types and symptoms Impact on vision varies widely. - Infantile nystagmus…"
url: "https://bluefinvision.com/knowledge-base/topics/conditions-diseases/nystagmus/"
updated: "2025-12-17"
category: "Conditions & Diseases"
---

# Nystagmus

Nystagmus is involuntary, rhythmic movement of the eyes, which can be horizontal, vertical, rotary, or mixed. It may be present from early infancy or acquired later in life.

## Types and symptoms

Impact on vision varies widely.

- Infantile nystagmus often associated with retinal or optic nerve disease, albinism, or idiopathic causes
- Acquired nystagmus linked to neurological disorders, vestibular problems, or medications
- Oscillopsia sensation of the world moving in some acquired forms
- Patients may adopt a head turn or tilt toward a "null point" where movements are minimal

## Management

Treatment aims to optimise vision and reduce symptoms.

- Correction of refractive errors and use of contact lenses in some cases
- Prisms, medications such as gabapentin or memantine, or surgery to shift the null point
- Investigation for underlying ocular or neurological causes, especially in acquired nystagmus
- Low-vision support and educational accommodations for affected children