Why Do I Have Hippus?

It is usually normal, however pathological hippus can occur. Pathologic hippus, the phenomena of increased oscillation or their amplitude, is associated with aconite poisoning, altered mental status, trauma, cirrhosis, and renal disease; suggesting a common pathway of frontal lobe dysfunction.

What causes hippus?

As well as being physiologic, hippus can reflect an autonomic imbalance occasioned on the brain by different pathologic conditions. Physiologic hippus may be driven by the cyclic occurrence of a pulse train in the parasympathetic pupillary innervation causing rhythmic contractions (Bouma & Baghuis, 1971).

What drugs cause hippus?

Drugs such as amphetamines, cocaine, atropine, and scopolamine can cause bilateral mydriasis. Severe anoxia is also associated with this finding. Hippus is a state of physiologic unrest.