Pendulum nystagmus is an eye disorder causing involuntary rhythmic eye movements, often acquired due to vision loss or nerve and muscle disorders. Treatment varies depending on the cause, and an ophthalmologist is typically involved in developing a treatment plan. Abnormal eye movements in someone without a history of vision problems may be a sign of early vision loss or brain damage and should be evaluated by a doctor.
Pendulum nystagmus is an eye disorder in which one or both eyes move involuntarily in a rhythmic up-and-down or back-and-forth motion. It can be combined with other forms of nystagmus such as jerky nystagmus, in which the eyes twitch at varying speeds. There are a number of causes for this condition, and treatment options vary, depending on why it’s happening. An ophthalmologist is typically involved in evaluating the patient and developing a treatment plan to address the disorder.
This condition can be congenital or acquired and is most commonly acquired. Vision loss early in life can cause pendulum nystagmus and is a frequent cause of this condition. Another cause is multiple sclerosis, a disease that involves progressive nerve damage. As the nerves are damaged, the patient may lose nerve and muscle control and this can manifest itself in the form of involuntary movements such as nystagmus.
Eye movement is controlled by a complex set of muscles that work cooperatively. Problems with the patient’s sense of balance can cause nystagmus, as can nerve and muscle disorders. In the case of pendulum nystagmus, the eyes may mirror themselves or follow a different path, depending on the nature of the condition. Most commonly, they move in concert and at a steady pace. This causes visual disturbances for the patient and can also attract unwanted attention.
In a patient with involuntary eye movement, an evaluation will be done to find out more about what is happening. This may include an eye exam, medical imaging studies to check for lesions on the brain, and an interview to check for any obvious risk factors, such as a history of neurological impairment. This information is used in developing a treatment plan for pendulum nystagmus, which may include medications and surgery, as well as treating the underlying cause of the problem.
Strange eye movements in someone without a history of vision problems can be a sign of early vision loss or brain damage. Especially in young children, they are a cause for concern and it is advisable to contact a doctor to discuss a medical examination. It is helpful to provide information about when pendulum nystagmus or other abnormal eye movements were first observed, as well as make notes of any other changes in a patient’s behavior or health. A child who has trouble completing schoolwork, for example, may be struggling with vision loss rather than simply being demotivated, or he may have a neurological problem that makes it difficult to do homework.
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