Symptom 5: Nystagmus – Uncontrolled Eye Movements
Nystagmus, characterized by uncontrolled, rapid eye movements, is another potential symptom of ataxia. This symptom can cause vision problems, as the rapid eye movements can make it difficult to focus on objects or faces.
From a practical standpoint, nystagmus can impact activities like reading, watching television, or even recognizing faces. It may also cause difficulty in perceiving depth, posing a safety risk when navigating through busy or cluttered spaces.
In a social context, maintaining eye contact is a critical part of non-verbal communication. Nystagmus can make it challenging to maintain this eye contact, potentially leading to misunderstandings or feelings of discomfort in social situations.
In a professional setting, this symptom can create challenges in tasks requiring precision or clear vision. It can make computer work challenging and lead to potential roadblocks in career progression.(5)
