About this topic
Some people have eye movements that they cannot control. The medical name for this is nystagmus. Your eyes may move from side to side or up and down. Sometimes, they move in a circle. This problem may happen in one eye or in both eyes. The movements may be very fast or slow. You may hear this problem described as "dancing eyes. " � � �
There is no cure for this health problem. Doctors may use special aids, drugs, or surgery to help the signs. � �
What care is needed at home?
- Ask your doctor what you need to do when you go home. Make sure you ask questions if you do not understand what the doctor says. This way you will know what you need to do.
- Wear glasses or contact lenses to help with eyesight problems as directed by your doctor.
- Look for large print reading materials, if available.
- Use good lighting.
- Use aids like a cane, walker, or rails to help if you have problems with balance.
- Learn how to position your head at an angle that makes you move your eyes less. Talk with your doctor about finding your "null " � point.
What follow-up care is needed?
- Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep these visits.
- The doctor may send you to a doctor who is an eye specialist. This is an ophthalmologist.
Will there be any other care needed?
Nystagmus may be a sign of a more serious problem. You might have an inner ear problem that makes you feel dizzy. You may have a problem with your central nervous system. It is important to find and treat the cause of nystagmus. � �
What problems could happen?
- Loss of eyesight
- Problems with balance
What can be done to prevent this health problem?
There is no way to prevent this problem. � �
When do I need to call the doctor?
- Eyesight gets worse
- More problems with balance
- Health problem is not better or you are feeling worse
Teach Back: Helping You Understand
The Teach Back Method helps you understand the information we are giving you. The idea is simple. After talking with the staff, tell them in your own words what you were just told. This helps to make sure the staff has covered each thing clearly. It also helps to explain things that may have been a bit confusing. Before going home, make sure you are able to do these: � �
- I can tell you about my condition.
- I can tell you how I will cope with my eyesight problems.
- I can tell you what I will do if my eyesight gets worse or I have more problems with my balance.
Where can I learn more?
American Academy of Ophthalmology � � � eyeSmart � �
http://www.geteyesmart.org/eyesmart/diseases/nystagmus.cfm � �
American Nystagmus Network � �
http://nystagmus.org/new/aboutn.php � �
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. � �
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Copyright � � 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. � �