Angle-Closure Glaucoma: Recognize Symptoms Early

Why is Angle-Closure Glaucoma Dangerous?

• 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. 

Types of Angle-Closure Glaucoma 

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

Symptoms of Angle-Closure Glaucoma 

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

Causes of Angle-Closure Glaucoma

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

Risk Factors

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) 

When Should You See a Doctor? 

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

Diagnosis of Angle-Closure Glaucoma

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 

Treatment Options 

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 

Angle-Closure Glaucoma Treatment Cost in India

Estimated Cost:

• Emergency treatment: ₹5,000 – ₹20,000

• Laser iridotomy: ₹10,000 – ₹30,000

• Surgery: ₹40,000 – ₹1,50,000

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Recovery & Long-Term Management

• Immediate relief after pressure control

• Regular follow-ups required

• Preventive treatment may be done in both eyes

• Lifelong monitoring recommended

Why Choose ASG Eye Hospital?

• Advanced glaucoma diagnostic technology

• Emergency eye care availability

• Experienced glaucoma specialists

• Laser & surgical expertise

• 180+ hospitals across India