What is the main cause of nystagmus?
What is the main cause of nystagmus?
What causes nystagmus? Jerk nystagmus usually results from diseases affecting the inner ear balance mechanisms or the back part of the brain (brainstem or cerebellum). Pendular nystagmus can result from brain diseases such as multiple sclerosis, but can be a congenital problem as well.
What neurological conditions cause nystagmus?
Causes of nystagmus can include:
- Stroke.
- Head trauma.
- Central nervous system diseases, such as multiple sclerosis and brain tumors.
- Certain medications, such as anti-epilepsy drugs.
- Various eye disorders, such as cataracts, strabismus, nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.
Which disease has evident symptom of nystagmus?
Causes of nystagmus Acquired nystagmus is most commonly caused by vestibular disorders, stroke, multiple sclerosis (MS), trauma and drug toxicity. Acute nystagmus, with or without oscillopsia, may be associated with ataxia, reduced visual acuity and falls.
Is nystagmus a symptom of vertigo?
Vertigo is a sensation of spinning, whirling or turning. Individuals often feel as if the room is moving or spinning and they can lose their balance and have difficulty standing or walking. During the vertigo spells, affected individuals often have abnormal eye movements as well (nystagmus).
What medications can cause nystagmus?
The most common cause of acquired nystagmus is certain drugs or medicines. Phenytoin (Dilantin) – an antiseizure medicine, excessive alcohol, or any sedating medicine can impair the labyrinth’s function.
Can a brain tumor cause nystagmus?
Pediatric brain tumors can distort, damage, and destroy portions of the brain involved in both the afferent and efferent vision pathways. This interruption of normal visual pathways can lead to permanent vision loss or other morbidities such as strabismus and nystagmus.
What can cause nystagmus in adults?
Nystagmus causes and risk factors include:
- Retina or optic nerve disorders.
- Underdeveloped control over eye movements.
- Inner ear conditions, such as Meniere’s disease.
- Stroke.
- Head trauma.
- Diseases of the central nervous system.
- Albinism (lack of pigmentation in the skin).
- Multiple sclerosis (MS).
Is nystagmus a neurological?
Nystagmus is most commonly caused by a neurological problem that is present at birth or develops in early childhood. Acquired nystagmus, which occurs later in life, can be the symptom of another condition or disease, such as stroke, multiple sclerosis or trauma.
