Definition

Uncontrollable eye movements are involuntary, rapid, and repetitive movement of the eyes.

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Alternative Names

Back and forth eye movements; Involuntary eye movements; Nystagmus; Rapid eye movements from side to side; Uncontrolled eye movements

Common Causes

Nystagmus is a symptom of many different disorders. Your health care provider will take a careful history and perform a thorough physical examination, which will emphasize the nervous system and inner ear.

Questions asked in a medical history may cover the following areas:

  • When was it first noticed?
  • How often does it occur?
  • Has it ever happened before?
  • Is it getting better, worse, or staying the same?
  • Are there side-to-side eye movements?
  • Are there up-and-down eye movements?
  • What medications are being taken?
  • What other symptoms are present?

Diagnostic tests that may be performed include:

  • CT scan of the head or MRI of the head
  • Electro-oculography: An electrical method of measuring eye movements using tiny electrodes.

Home Care

There is no therapy for most cases of congenital nystagmus. Availability of treatment for acquired nystagmus will vary with the cause. In most cases, except for those caused by Dilantin or alcohol intoxication, nystagmus is irreversible.

Call your health care provider if

Nystagmus is detected or suspected.

Lots More Information:
•Meniere’s disease
Review Date:3/5/2007
Reviewed By: Daniel Kantor, M.D., Director of the Comprehensive MS Center, Neuroscience Institute, University of Florida Health Science Center, Jacksonville, FL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.