Eyes don't literally "skip" in the sense of missing a beat. The phenomenon you're likely referring to is called nystagmus, an involuntary, rhythmic movement of the eyes. This constant, uncontrolled movement can make it appear as if the eyes are "skipping" or jerking.
Understanding Nystagmus
Nystagmus is a condition where the eyes make repetitive, uncontrolled movements. This can be back and forth, up and down, or in a circular pattern. These movements often interfere with clear vision. The provided reference states that nystagmus occurs when the coordination of eye movements breaks down. This breakdown can have many underlying causes.
Causes of Nystagmus:
The reference lists several potential causes of nystagmus, including:
- Other eye issues: Conditions like cataracts (clouding of the eye's lens) and strabismus (misalignment of the eyes) can contribute to nystagmus.
- Neurological diseases: Diseases affecting the nervous system, such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, and Meniere's disease (an inner ear disorder), can also cause nystagmus.
Impact on Vision
The involuntary movements of nystagmus significantly impact vision. The constant shaking makes it difficult to focus on objects, leading to blurred vision and difficulty tracking moving objects. The severity of visual impairment varies greatly depending on the underlying cause and the severity of the nystagmus.
