June 20 - International Nystagmus Awareness Day

Happy International Nystagmus Awareness Day! On June 20, this day brings attention to a condition that can cause severe vision problems among other concerns. 

The day aims to bring tools, resources, and opportunities for education to the forefront. 

Depending on the type of nystagmus, treatments, and symptoms vary. Approximately one in one thousand babies are born with nystagmus, but adults are affected by it as well. 

Nystagmus presents as drifting or wobbly eyes with two basic types of nystagmus: 

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  • Jerk nystagmus – As the name suggests, the eyes jerk quickly in one direction and are then followed by slow movements in the opposite direction. 

• • Pendular nystagmus – The eyes move with equal speed in either direction. 

The condition also has five classifications of diagnoses. One of those is congenital nystagmus which physicians diagnose primarily in infancy or childhood.  

However, acquired nystagmus can be caused by illness or side effects of prescribed or misused medications. Of the two, congenital nystagmus is more prevalent. 

Those with nystagmus face a variety of challenges. The condition may cause severe vision problems causing them to be legally blind.  

Because the eye movements set them apart from others, they often face self-image and social issues. The day aims to alleviate some of these concerns by increasing awareness and erasing the stigma. 

While no cure exists, treatments include contact lenses, glasses, medication, and even surgical interventions. As with many conditions, early intervention is important. 

A physician will determine the type and cause of nystagmus and determine the best approach to treatment. 

HOW TO OBSERVE 

Learn how to live with nystagmus, its treatments, and find support. You can also participate in a campaign to help raise awareness. 

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  • Join a support group. 

• • Host a fundraiser. 

• • Share information on social media. 

• • Take a quiz. 

• • Raise your voice and share your experiences. 

• • Thank others for their support. 

• • Advocate for others. 

• • Gain more knowledge through this easy to read book from Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/Can-tell-about-Nystagmus-professionals/dp/1785925628/ref=as_li_ss_tl?dchild=1&keywords=Nystagmus&qid=1592417061&sr=8-1&linkCode=sl1&tag=zoovioinc.-20&linkId=5dbfb1f1875e41e37a8eef86dc7a68c5&language=en_US 

 
Organizations like the Nystagmus Network offer many resources and tools, too. Use #NystagmusAwarenessDay to share your journey and find out more. 

 
HISTORY 

 
The Nystagmus Network sponsors International Nystagmus Awareness Day to promote worldwide support, fund research, and raise awareness for the eye condition. 

Other vision focused observances on the calendar include: 

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  • National Different Colored Eyes Day 

• • Children's Health And Safety Month 

• • World Sight Day 

• • World Braille Day 

• • White Cane Safety Day 

• • Home Eye Safety Month 

• • World Glaucoma Day 

#NystagmusAwarenessDay 

@NystagmusNetwork 

@Amazon 

@nichecinema