What Is Nystagmus?

This study has never been duplicated.  Note the estimated angle of nystagmus onset Yup, my patient has nystagmus. What does that mean? Big picture … it means that there’s something abnormal about the patient’s nervous system. There are a few major reasons to consider. Drugs and alcohol Yes, that old roadside sobriety test is a useful indicator of alcohol intoxication. People begin having nystagmus with blood alcohol levels as low as .04%. But alcohol isn’t the only drug that can cause nystagmus. Other central nervous system depressants like barbiturates, Lithium and benzodiazepines like Valium will also induce nystagmus. Some other prescription meds like SSRIs and Dilantin may be responsible as well. One quick related note if you encountered the nystagmus test during a roadside sobriety test or you’re concerned about alcohol or drug addiction. Drug and alcohol detox centers are available and treatment centers can help. Most hallucingenics will cause nystagmus. So add LSD, PCP and Ketamine to the list. And even some primary stimulants like MDMA (Methylenedioxymethamphetamine) will cause nystagmus. Neurological and balance disorders Disease processes that involve the nervous system can induce nystagmus. These include Multiple Sclerosis, Wernicke’s encephalopathy, brain tumors, ocular nerve or macular degeneration and stroke. Also, balance and inner ear disorders can be a culprit. Consider vertigo and Meniere’s Dis...
Source: The EMT Spot - Category: Emergency Medicine Authors: Tags: EMT Source Type: blogs