Nystagmus is characterised by involuntary movement of the eyes, symptomatic of problems with the visual pathway. It causes varying degrees of sight impairment. Nystagmus is often a genetic condition and may be associated with albinism, but can also be caused by a number of medical conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma or aniridia.
Wobbly Wednesday is your opportunity to learn more about this limiting condition. Nystagmus affects 1 in 1,000 people. It is a form of visual impairment and can occur at any time of life. It is the most common form of visual impairment in school-aged children in the UK. People affected by nystagmus encounter visual problems throughout their lives and need support in education and employment.
History of Wobbly Wednesday
The day was instituted by the Nystagmus Network, the world’s longest-running support charity for those affected by nystagmus. The purpose of the day is to raise awareness of nystagmus, also known as wobbly eyes. On this day schools, hospitals, colleges and universities up and down the country and across the world hold exhibitions, sponsored events and lots of fun to let everyone know about nystagmus.