Angle-closure glaucoma occurs when the iris (colored part of the eye) blocks the drainage angle, preventing fluid (aqueous humor) from flowing out of the eye. This causes a sudden rise in eye pressure that damages the optic nerve.
Also called Closed-Angle or Narrow-Angle Glaucoma
Can occur suddenly (acute) or gradually (chronic)
Requires urgent medical attention in acute cases
Sudden and severe increase in eye pressure
Rapid optic nerve damage
Can lead to permanent blindness within hours
Requires immediate emergency treatment
Acute angle-closure glaucoma is one of the most urgent eye conditions in ophthalmology.
1. Acute Angle-Closure Glaucoma
Sudden onset
Severe symptoms
Medical emergency
2. Chronic Angle-Closure Glaucoma
Develops gradually
Mild or no early symptoms
3. Intermittent Angle Closure
Temporary blockage
Symptoms come and go
Acute Symptoms
Severe eye pain
Sudden blurred vision
Redness in the eye
Halos around lights
Headache
Nausea and vomiting
Chronic Symptoms
Mild eye discomfort
Gradual vision loss
Occasional headaches
If you experience sudden symptoms, seek immediate medical care
This condition occurs when the drainage angle between the iris and cornea becomes blocked, preventing fluid from exiting the eye.
Common Causes:
Narrow drainage angle
Aging (lens thickening)
Sudden pupil dilation (dark rooms, stress, medications)
Eye anatomy variations
You are at higher risk if you:
Are above 40 years
Female gender
Family history of glaucoma
Asian ethnicity
Have hyperopia (farsightedness)
Use certain medications (antihistamines, antidepressants)
Seek emergency care immediately if you have:
Sudden severe eye pain
Blurred vision with headache
Nausea with eye discomfort
Halos around lights
Early treatment can save your vision
A comprehensive eye examination may include:
Tonometry – Measures eye pressure
Gonioscopy – Examines drainage angle
Slit-lamp examination – Internal eye structure analysis
OCT Scan – Optic nerve evaluation
Visual Field Test – Detects vision loss
Angle-closure glaucoma requires immediate treatment to prevent permanent vision loss.
Medications
Eye drops to reduce pressure
Oral medications (e.g., acetazolamide)
Laser Treatment
Laser Peripheral Iridotomy
Creates a small opening in the iris to restore fluid flow
Surgery
Used in advanced or chronic cases
May include cataract removal or drainage surgery
Estimated Cost:
Emergency treatment: ₹5,000 – ₹20,000
Laser iridotomy: ₹10,000 – ₹30,000
Surgery: ₹40,000 – ₹1,50,000
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Immediate relief after pressure control
Regular follow-ups required
Preventive treatment may be done in both eyes
Lifelong monitoring recommended
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Yes, it is a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment.
Yes, permanent vision loss can occur within hours if untreated.
Dark environments, stress, and certain medications can trigger it.
Early detection and preventive laser treatment can reduce risk.
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