Nystagmus
Also known as: Involuntary eye movement, Dancing eyes
A condition characterized by involuntary, repetitive, rhythmic movements of the eyes, which may move side to side (horizontal), up and down (vertical), or in a circular pattern (rotary). Nystagmus can be congenital (present from birth) or acquired later in life due to neurological conditions, medications, or inner ear disorders. It reduces visual stability and can significantly impair visual acuity because the constant eye movement makes it difficult to maintain steady fixation on objects or text. For digital accessibility, nystagmus affects reading speed, the ability to track moving content, and the use of eye-tracking-based assistive technologies. Users with nystagmus may benefit from larger text, reduced motion in interfaces, the ability to control scrolling speed, and extended time for tasks requiring visual precision.
Category: Visual Impairment · conditions · low vision
Related: Visual acuity · Low vision · Eye tracking · Visual processing