Neurological Eye Disorders

Neurological eye disorders are caused by dysfunction of the cranial nerves that control the eyes. They can affect the pupils, optic nerves and the optic muscles that control the eyes.

Conjugate Gaze Palsy

• Conjugate gaze palsy is characterized by an inability to move both eyes in a single direction, usually horizontally. The most common cause is a stroke and the condition usually improves on its own.

Fourth Cranial Nerve Palsy

• This condition causes the patient to see double, with one image slightly above and off to the side of the other image. The cause is often unknown, but it could result from head trauma. Eye exercises or special prism glasses may help the condition. Tilting the head to the side also helps the double images come together.

Bell's Palsy

• Bell's palsy usually only affects one side of the face and symptoms include numbness and drooping on the affected side. This may cause the eye to not shut properly, leading to infection. Eye drops may be given to avoid complications. Bell's palsy usually clears up on its own. The cause is unknown.

Internuclear Ophthalmoplegia

• Internuclear ophthalmoplegia is characterized by impaired horizontal movement of one or both eyes, which causes side-by-side double vision. The most common causes are multiple sclerosis and stroke. Treatment is aimed at the underlying cause.

Horner's Syndrome

• Horner's syndrome is usually a sign of another condition, including brain tumors and stroke. Symptoms include a sunken eye appearance, constricted pupils and a lack of sweat on the affected side. This condition usually goes away when the underlying cause is resolved.