What type of eye movement is associated with nystagmus?

Nystagmus is characterized by involuntary eye movements that can vary in direction and speed. It often includes a combination of rapid and slow phases. The rapid phase typically moves the eyes quickly in one direction, while the slow phase brings the eyes back in the opposite direction. This oscillation can occur in various patterns, such as horizontal (side to side) or vertical (up and down). Since nystagmus can indeed exhibit both rapid and slow movements, the choice that encompasses this range accurately describes the nature of the eye movements associated with the condition. Understanding that nystagmus involves a dual-phase movement helps clarify the range of symptoms observed in different types, making the selection of the most comprehensive answer essential for proper diagnosis and understanding of the condition.