Florida State Paramedic Practice Exam

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What is the term for twitching of the eyes?

Strabismus
Blepharospasm
Nystagmus
Conjunctivitis

The correct answer is: Nystagmus

The correct term for twitching of the eyes is nystagmus. Nystagmus refers to a condition characterized by involuntary eye movements, which can be horizontal, vertical, or rotary. These movements often cause the eyes to move in a rapid and repetitive manner, resulting in difficulty in maintaining a fixed gaze on an object. This phenomenon can be caused by various factors, including neurological conditions, medication side effects, or even inherent issues with the inner ear, which helps control balance and eye movements. Understanding that nystagmus specifically addresses the involuntary nature and oscillatory movement of the eyes helps in differentiating it from other terms. Strabismus refers to a misalignment of the eyes where they do not look in the same direction at the same time. Blepharospasm is a condition involving involuntary muscle contractions of the eyelids, which can cause the eyes to blink or close intermittently but does not refer to eye movements as nystagmus does. Conjunctivitis describes an inflammation of the conjunctiva (the outer membrane covering the eye), and while it can affect how someone perceives their eyes or eye movements, it does not pertain to twitching itself.