Angle Closure Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a disorder where pressure builds up inside the eye, causing irreversible damage to the optic nerve.

Most “regular” glaucoma has no symptoms. However there is a type of glaucoma, known as angle closure glaucoma, that occurs in attacks with landmark symptoms.

An angle closure attack occurs when the iris (colored part of the eye) blocks off the drainage structures inside the eye. This causes fluid, and subsequently pressure, to build up quickly.

Symptoms of an attack include a red, painful eye. There may be a headache. The pain may be so severe as to cause nausea and vomiting. Vision is typically blurred, and haloes appear around lights. If these symptoms occur, contact your eye care physician at once, or go to the emergency room.

Why does an attack occur? Anything that causes the pupil (black opening in the center of the iris) to dilate (enlarge) can precipitate angle closure. Being in a dark environment (for example, at a movie) or medications (some cold/sinus medicines) may cause the pupil to dilate. People who are farsighted have a shorter eye and are more at risk for angle closure.

Angle closure glaucoma should be treated promptly. Medications (eye drops, oral, and sometimes intravenous) are given to lower the pressure quickly. Later, a laser procedure is usually done to open a hole in the iris. Then, even if the iris does close off the drainage again, there is still a way for the fluid to get through. This generally cures the problem. (By contrast, “regular” glaucoma cannot be cured…only treated.)

Jan Ledford, COMT
EyeWrite Productions