by Connor Courtien, RDPFS Intern:
June 20, 2023 is International Nystagmus Awareness Day, established to raise awareness of the eye condition so that it can be detected as early as possible. This commemoration originated through the UK-based Nystagmus Network, an organization that primarily funds research on nystagmus. This condition affects nearly 800,000 Americans and millions of people worldwide. Many people aren’t aware of its impact, however, making it important to focus attention on it. Nystagmus, sometimes called “dancing eye syndrome,” is a dysfunction of eye movement that leads to the involuntary shaking of the eye from left to right or top to bottom. This uncontrollable movement often causes reduced or limited vision, and is frequently associated with other eye conditions, such as albinism and macular degeneration. It can also emerge as the byproduct of other medical conditions, including multiple sclerosis and stroke. Although there is no cure, symptoms can be reduced through the use of glasses or contacts. In addition, sometimes surgery can be performed on the muscles that control the eye, leading to a greater reduction in symptoms. To read more about Nystagmus Awareness Day, and ways to spread the word, check out the Nystagmus Network website and this article on International Nystagmus Day from National Today.
