Closed-angle glaucoma

Content provided by Healthwise

Closed-angle glaucoma

Closed-angle glaucoma is an eye disorder in which the colored part of the eye (iris) and the lens block the movement of fluid between the chambers of the eye.

The blockage of fluid causes pressure to build up in the eye and causes the iris to press on the drainage system (trabecular meshwork) of the eye. The increased pressure can cause damage to the optic nerve, leading to vision loss and possible blindness.

Closed-angle glaucoma may cause sudden blurred vision with pain and redness, usually in one eye first. It can be an emergency situation (acute closed-angle glaucoma) that needs immediate medical care to prevent permanent damage to the affected eye. Treatment may include medications to lower the pressure in the eye (intraocular pressure, or IOP), monitoring of the drainage angle, and possibly surgery. The opposite eye is also usually examined and eventually treated because the condition is likely to affect the other eye as well.

Credits

Author	Jeannette Curtis
Author	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor	Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer	Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Last Updated	May 25, 2007

Last updated:	May 25, 2007
Author:	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.