What condition is described by eyes that move jaggedly, rather than smoothly in parallel?

Study for the HEENT Assessment Test. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Nystagmus is characterized by involuntary and rapid movements of the eyes, which can often appear as a jerky or jagged motion rather than smooth movements. This condition may occur both horizontally and vertically, and it can be understood as an abnormality in the eye's movement control mechanisms. Nystagmus can be associated with various underlying issues, such as neurological disorders, inner ear problems, or it may be a result of intoxication or certain medications.

Strabismus refers to a misalignment of the eyes, where one eye may turn in, out, up, or down, but does not imply the jagged or oscillating movement of the eyes. Exophthalmos is the protrusion of the eyeball, often associated with conditions like hyperthyroidism, but again, it does not describe eye movement. Ptosis involves the drooping of the upper eyelid and does not pertain to the movement dynamics of the eyes either. Thus, when considering eye movements that are jagged and not aligned or smooth, nystagmus is the condition that accurately describes this phenomenon.

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