Some people can actually hear their eyeballs moving side to side

Some people can actually hear their eyeballs moving side to side.

Have you ever thought about what it would be like to hear your eyeballs move? It may sound like something out of a science fiction movie, but for some people, this is a reality. A rare condition known as voluntary or synchronous eye movement (VEM) allows individuals to both control and hear the sound of their own eyes moving from side to side.

According to a BBC news article from 2011, some individuals with VEM experience a faint clicking or popping sound inside their heads whenever they move their eyes horizontally. This unusual phenomenon has fascinated scientists and doctors for years, and research is still ongoing to fully understand the mechanisms behind it.

It is estimated that around one in five people with the ability to voluntarily move their eyes can also hear the sound. The clicking noise is believed to originate from muscles and tendons surrounding the eyeball, specifically the lateral rectus muscle responsible for horizontal eye movements. As the eye moves, these muscles contract and release, generating the audible sound.

For those who have this extraordinary ability, the sound of their eyes moving can range from a subtle and quiet click to a more pronounced and audible pop. Interestingly, the sensation of hearing eye movements is usually subjective, as the noise is not usually audible to others. This makes it difficult to study and diagnose the condition accurately.

While VEM may seem intriguing, it is important to note that not everyone with voluntary eye control can hear their eye movements. The ability to hear eye movements is a rare phenomenon and should not be mistaken for a common occurrence. For those who do have this ability, it can sometimes be a source of fascination and wonder.

Researchers continue to explore the underlying causes of VEM and how it relates to the overall functioning of the eye. Understanding this condition could potentially provide insights into various eye disorders and help develop new treatments in the future.

In conclusion, the ability to hear eye movements is a rare condition known as voluntary or synchronous eye movement (VEM). Many people find this phenomenon fascinating, as it allows for a unique and extraordinary experience. As research progresses and more is discovered about VEM, it is hoped that scientists can shed light on the mechanisms behind it and potentially uncover new insights into the complex workings of the human eye.

Source: BBC - Unique talent - hearing eyeballs move