Eye movements, uncontrollable

Alternative names:

back and forth eye movements; horizontal nystagmus; involuntary oscillation of the eye(s); nystagmus; rapid eye movements from side to side; rotary nystagmus; side to side movements of the eyes; uncontrolled eye movements; vertical nystagmus

Home care:

Follow prescribed therapy which will center around treating (when possible) the underlying cause.

Call your health care provider if:

• nystagmus is detected or suspected.

What to expect at your health care provider's office:

Nystagmus is a symptom of many different disorders. Your health care provider will take a careful history and perform a thorough physical examination.

Medical history questions documenting nystagmus in detail may include:

• time pattern
  • When was it first noticed?
  • How often does it occur?
  • Has it ever happened before?
  • Is it getting better, worse, or staying the same?

• quality
  • Are there side-to-side eye movements?
  • Are there up-and-down eye movements?

• What medications are being taken?
• What other symptoms are also present?

Physical examination will include emphasis on the nervous system and on the inner ear.

Diagnostic tests that may be performed include:

• CT scan of the head
• electronystagmography

After seeing your health care provider:
If a diagnosis was made by your health care provider as the cause of nystagmus, you may want to note that diagnosis in your personal medical record.