Also Known As
Primary angle-closure glaucoma
Description
* There is a constant flow of fluid in the eyeball. This fluid, called intraocular, is made and then reabsorbed. One in one hundred individuals have a narrowing in the area of the eye located where intraocular fluid flows out. When this area suddenly closes off, it results in a build up of fluid pressure known as acute glaucoma. Acute angle closure glaucoma may be the primary disease, or it may occur secondary to another eye disease, such as Posterior Uveitis or lens dislocation.
Symptoms
* Severe eye pain
* Red Eye
* Cornea (front of eye) becomes cloudy
* Eye becomes hard
* Blurred Vision with halos around lights
* Occasionally nausea/vomiting and abdominal pain
* Excessive tearing
How The Diagnosis Is made
* An ophthalmologist (eye doctor) makes the diagnosis
* Tonometry reveals elevated intraocular pressure
Risk factors
* The elderly
* Those of Asian descent
* Females
* Users of anticholinergic drugs (e.g., Atropine and some of the antidepressants)
Treatment
* Primary (no cause)
- Low intraocular pressure with medications:
+ Acetazolamide
+ Oral glycerol
+ Mannitol intravenously
+ Urea intravenously
+ Pilocarpine 4%
+ Beta-blockers such as Timoptic and corticosteroid eye drops may also be used.
+ Laser treatment for affected eye
+ Laser treatment for the other eye (because high risk for developing acute glaucoma)
* Secondary (caused by another eye disease, such as Posterior Uveitis)
- Acetazolamide
If You suspect This Condition
* This is a medical emergency. Untreated, permanent blindness or visual impairment will result in 2-5 days.
Similiar Condition
* Conjunctivitis
* Acute uveitis
* Corneal infection
* Corneal trauma
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