News

Nystagmus: what it is, causes, symptoms and treatments

27/08/2025

Nystagmus is an eye disorder that causes involuntary and repetitive movements of the eyes, which can seriously affect vision. At Barraquer, we know that proper diagnosis and treatment make all the difference in preserving our patients’ quality of life.

What is nystagmus and how does it affect vision?

Nystagmus is an ocular condition characterised by involuntary, rhythmic and repetitive eye movements. It may be:

Horizontal (side to side)
Vertical (up and down)
Torsional (rotational)

These movements are beyond the person’s control and, in many cases, affect visual ability.

Types of nystagmus

According to the moment of onset:

Congenital nystagmus: appears before 6 months of age and disrupts normal visual development.
Acquired nystagmus: arises after 6 months, may be temporary or permanent, and can be associated with oscillopsia, vertigo, nausea or neurological symptoms.

Causes of nystagmus

Congenital nystagmus

Idiopathic: no identifiable cause.
Genetic: mutation in genes related to eye control.
Sensory: associated with diseases that reduce vision in the child, such as:
- Oculocutaneous albinism or isolated ocular albinism
- Aniridia, foveal or optic nerve hypoplasia
- Congenital retinal dystrophies
- Untreated congenital cataracts
- Corneal opacities
Neurological: rare in children.

Acquired nystagmus

Linked to neurological disease, inner ear lesions or use of medication/drugs.

If nystagmus appears suddenly, it is essential to see an ophthalmologist to rule out serious causes.

Symptoms of nystagmus

Symptom	Characteristics
Low visual acuity	Lower in cases associated with ocular pathologies; better in idiopathic cases.
Oscillopsia	Sensation that objects are constantly moving (common in acquired cases).
Difficulty focusing	Problems with reading and near vision.
Photophobia	Greater sensitivity to light, especially in cases of albinism.
Abnormal head position (torticollis)	Adopted to improve vision in the position of minimal oscillation.

In addition, nystagmus can cause social and emotional discomfort due to the constant eye movement.

Treatments for nystagmus

Treatment of the cause: in acquired cases, addressing the underlying condition.
Optical correction: glasses or contact lenses to maximise vision.
Surgery: indicated in cases of marked torticollis, to centre the position of minimal oscillation and improve visual quality.
Congenital cataract surgery: in treatable cases, it can reduce or eliminate nystagmus.

Nystagmus is a complex condition that requires precise diagnosis and a personalised treatment plan. With proper follow-up, most patients can enjoy an active and full life.

Dr. Anna Monés, ophthalmologist at the Barraquer Ophthalmology Centre