Angle-closure glaucoma is a type of glaucoma where the angle between the iris (colored part of the eye) and cornea (clear front part of the eye) narrows, blocking the normal flow of fluid out of the eye. This blockage causes a sudden increase in eye pressure, which can damage the optic nerve and lead to vision loss.

 

 

Acute attacks: Angle-closure glaucoma can occur suddenly with severe symptoms such as eye pain, nausea, vomiting, and seeing halos around lights. These are known as acute attacks of angle-closure glaucoma.

Risk of rapid vision loss: If an acute attack of angle-closure glaucoma is not treated promptly, it can lead to permanent vision loss.

Recurring attacks: Even after initial treatment, there is a risk of recurrent attacks of angle-closure glaucoma.

 

 

Age: Older adults are at higher risk.

Race: Certain races, such as Asians and Eskimos, are at higher risk.

Eye shape: People with small, deep-set eyes are at higher risk.

Pupil size changes: Sudden changes in pupil size, such as when moving from a dark to a bright environment, can increase the risk of an acute attack.

 

 

Severe eye pain: Pain is usually felt in one eye and may radiate to the forehead and teeth.

Redness of the eye: The whites of the eye may appear red.

 

Angle-closure glaucoma is usually diagnosed based on the symptoms and a comprehensive eye examination by an ophthalmologist. Diagnostic tests may include:

 

Gonioscopy: To examine the angle between the iris and cornea

Intraocular pressure measurement: To measure the pressure inside the eye

Perimetry: To assess your field of vision

Optic nerve imaging: To evaluate damage to the optic nerve

 

The goal of treatment is to lower eye pressure and prevent damage to the optic nerve. Treatment options may include:

 

Medications: To rapidly lower eye pressure

Laser surgery (iridotomy): Creating a small opening in the iris to allow fluid to drain

Surgery: In cases where medications and laser treatments are ineffective

 

To prevent recurrent attacks of angle-closure glaucoma, preventive treatments may be necessary, such as:

 

Preventive laser surgery: Creating a small opening in the iris in both eyes

Medications: To reduce the risk of increased eye pressure

Angle-closure glaucoma is a medical emergency. If you experience symptoms of angle-closure glaucoma, seek immediate medical attention from an ophthalmologist.