Eye Tremor – Nystagmus Treatment

Eye movements are controlled by the coordinated functioning of the brain and the eye muscles to ensure accurate and clear visual perception. However, in some cases, this coordination is disrupted, and involuntary eye movements occur. In medicine, this condition is called Eye Tremor – Nystagmus. This disorder can significantly affect an individual’s visual quality.

Op. Dr. Diclehan, with many years of clinical experience on this subject, emphasizes that patients with Eye Tremor – Nystagmus can achieve a successful treatment process through early diagnosis, a multidisciplinary approach, and individualized treatment planning.

What is Eye Tremor – Nystagmus?

Eye Tremor – Nystagmus is the involuntary, rhythmic trembling of the eyes, usually horizontal but sometimes vertical or circular. These movements develop due to a lack of coordination in the eye muscles or neural structures. The trembling may be constant or may appear in certain situations (such as when the gaze direction changes).

Classification of Nystagmus

Congenital (Inherited) Nystagmus
It appears within the first months of life. It may result from developmental disorders of the visual system. It is usually symmetrical in both eyes.

Acquired Nystagmus
It develops later in life, usually due to an underlying disease. Brain tumors, MS, stroke, trauma, and side effects of medications can cause acquired nystagmus.

Physiological Nystagmus
It may be observed in some healthy individuals during rapid head movements or vestibular system stimulation. It is not pathological.

Forms of Nystagmus

Eye Tremor – Nystagmus can appear in different types:

• Pendular Nystagmus: Eye movements are symmetrical and rhythmic.
• Jerky Nystagmus: The eye moves quickly in one direction and slowly returns in the other.
• Latent Nystagmus: Appears when one eye is covered.
• Spasmus Nutans: Seen in infancy, generally regresses around the age of 3.

Causes of Eye Tremor – Nystagmus

• Genetic factors
• Incomplete visual development (albinism, congenital cataract)
• Neural transmission disorders
• Vestibular system diseases
• Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
• Brainstem tumors
• Trauma and intracranial hemorrhage
• Alcohol and drug intoxication
• Intraocular inflammations (e.g., uveitis)

Symptoms of Eye Tremor – Nystagmus

Symptoms may vary from person to person:

• Blurred vision
• Need to fix the head position (compensatory head posture)
• Photophobia (light sensitivity)
• Balance problems
• Difficulty reading
• Eye fatigue

Diagnostic Methods

• Clinical examination of eye movements
• Video-oculographic analyses
• Neurological examination and MRI
• Electrophysiological tests (VEP, ERG)
• Vestibular system evaluation

Treatment of Eye Tremor – Nystagmus

Op. Dr. Diclehan emphasizes the importance of individualized planning in the treatment of Eye Tremor – Nystagmus. Treatment approaches can be considered under the following headings:

Use of Glasses and Contact Lenses
Correction of refractive errors can improve visual clarity and reduce trembling. In some patients, contact lenses may stabilize eye movements and provide a more stable image.

Prismatic Glasses
Prism lenses that support compensatory head positions can improve visual comfort.

Botulinum Toxin Injections
Botox injections into the eye muscles can suppress involuntary contractions and reduce eye trembling. It is a temporary method.

Eye Muscle Surgery
With strabismus surgeries, it is possible to adjust the head position and reduce trembling in the neutral head position.

Rehabilitation and Visual Therapy
Orthoptic exercises and visual rehabilitation methods can enhance visual stability. Especially in children, exercises started at an early age may provide long-term benefits.

Treatment of Neurological and Systemic Diseases
If nystagmus is caused by an underlying disease (MS, brain tumor, uveitis, etc.), controlling this condition can reduce the severity of trembling.

Nystagmus by Age Groups

In Infants
It may develop due to congenital visual disorders. Conditions such as congenital cataract, albinism, or optic nerve hypoplasia should be evaluated. Early diagnosis reduces the risk of amblyopia.

In Children and Adolescents
It may negatively affect school performance. Supportive measures include glasses, visual therapy, and appropriate educational guidance.

In Adults
Acquired causes are predominant. Neurological evaluation is essential.

Coping Strategies for Eye Tremor – Nystagmus

• Keeping the head position stable
• Avoiding bright light
• Avoiding cross gazes
• Not neglecting regular eye examinations

Eye Tremor – Nystagmus and Its Relationship with Other Eye Diseases

Eye Tremor – Nystagmus can sometimes be a symptom of diseases such as diabetic retinopathy, which damages the visual center as a result of diabetes. Disorders in the macula (the central part of the retina responsible for vision) make it difficult for the eye to maintain steady focus.

Eye Tremor – Nystagmus is a movement disorder of the eyes that affects quality of life but can be controlled with a multidisciplinary approach. With early diagnosis, individualized treatment, and rehabilitation methods, patients’ visual comfort can be significantly improved. Op. Dr. Diclehan emphasizes that awareness-raising efforts and early intervention in this field will have positive effects on individuals’ social and academic lives.