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Acute Angle-Closure Glaucoma Attack — Laser Iridotomy

Sudden severe rise in intraocular pressure threatens permanent vision loss within hours.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Acil Servis department. Book Appointment →

What is Acute Angle-Closure Glaucoma Attack — Laser Iridotomy?

Acute angle-closure glaucoma is a sudden blockage of the anterior chamber angle by the iris-lens diaphragm and a rapid rise in intraocular pressure.

It is more common in farsighted (hyperopic) eyes with shallow anterior chambers, in older adults and in women.

Triggers include darkness, stress, anticholinergic drugs and pupillary dilation; without urgent intervention permanent optic-nerve damage develops.

Symptoms

Sudden severe one-sided eye pain and headache
Cloudy vision and seeing rainbow halos around lights
Conjunctival injection (red eye)
Cornea oedematous and hazy
Mid-dilated and non-reactive pupil
Nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain
Stony-hard eye on palpation

Risk Factors

Hyperopia (far-sightedness) and shallow anterior chamber
Age >50 years and female sex
Asian and Inuit ethnicity
Family history of angle-closure glaucoma
Pupillary dilation and dim-light environments
Anticholinergic drug use (antidepressant, antispasmodic)
Cataract progression and lens enlargement

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Sudden severe eye pain, blurred vision and halos around lights require immediate ophthalmology presentation
  • Within 6-12 hours laser iridotomy and drug therapy must be given; later permanent vision loss occurs
  • Prophylactic laser iridotomy of the fellow eye is necessary
  • Combined cataract surgery is curative in selected cases

Treatment Methods

01
Topical timolol, brimonidine and pilocarpine drops
02
Systemic acetazolamide (intravenous or oral)
03
Hyperosmotic agent (intravenous mannitol)
04
Emergency YAG laser peripheral iridotomy
05
Prophylactic laser iridotomy of the fellow eye
06
Lens extraction surgery (in chronic cases)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Acil Servis department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.