What is the term for involuntary rapid eye movements?

Nystagmus is the term used to describe involuntary rapid eye movements. This condition can involve oscillations of the eyes in different directions, including horizontal, vertical, or rotary movements. Nystagmus can occur as a physiological response, such as during certain head movements or in response to visual stimuli, but it may also be associated with various medical conditions or be a result of drug use or neurological disorders. Understanding nystagmus is essential, particularly in ophthalmology, as it can affect a person's vision and can be indicative of underlying health issues that may require further evaluation and management.

In contrast, strabismus refers to a misalignment of the eyes, where they do not point in the same direction, tropia is a broader term used to describe a type of strabismus, and diplopia indicates double vision, which can result from eye misalignment or other issues but is not defined by rapid eye movements.