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Visible, abnormal nystagmus may be caused by abnormality of any one of the three basic mechanisms that regulate position and movement of the eyes: fixation (focusing on and tracking objects), conjugate gaze (keeping the eyes parallel so that the images coincide), or vestibular mechanisms (the balance organs). This last is easily demonstrated: spin around and around until you feel dizzy, then observe the temporary nystagmus of your own eyes caused by the vestibular stimulation of spinning.
Nystagmus results from the instability or impairment of the system responsible for controlling eye movements. When nystagmus develops in early childhood, it can be caused by a problem with the visual pathway from the eye to the brain.
Often the child has no other eye or medical problem. Acquired nystagmus, which occurs later in life, can be the symptom of another condition such as stroke, multiple sclerosis or a blow to the head.Since nystagmus can be caused by tumors, stroke, and trauma or neurological disorder, any type of nystagmus must be evaluated by a qualified practitioner. The nystagmus can be a sign of a serious problem. For example, a type of tumor called chiasmal glioma has signs and symptoms similar to spasmus nutans.