Vision

The first signs

One of the first symptoms of MJD is having vision problems. This includes having double vision (diplopia) and/or having shaky eyes (nystagmus). A common symptom of MJD is that people can also appear to have bulging eyes, because of tightness in some of the eye muscles. 

These changes to vision – combined with weakness, ataxia and cramping – make it more difficult for people with MJD to move around safely. Having to concentrate to focus your eyes makes reading and moving around very tiring and slow.  

You may notice a person with MJD close one eye, as this reduces double vision and shaky eyes. Reading or using a computer may also be difficult, which can make some tasks more challenging, such as work or filling out forms (e.g. at the doctor or bank).