Acute Glaucoma Crisis

Acute Glaucoma Crisis

An acute glaucoma crisis is a condition where the pressure inside the eye rapidly increases, requiring urgent medical intervention. This situation arises due to a sudden blockage that prevents the fluid inside the eye from draining out at a normal pace. If not treated urgently, an acute glaucoma crisis can lead to permanent vision loss.

1. Symptoms

  • Severe Eye Pain: Usually sudden and intense.
  • Blurred or Diminished Vision: Vision may become blurry or decrease.
  • Sensitivity to Light: There may be extreme sensitivity to bright light.
  • Headache: Severe headache can occur.
  • Nausea and Vomiting: These symptoms often accompany the others.
  • Eye Redness and Watering: There can be redness and excessive watering in the eye.
  • Change in Pupil Size: A change in pupil size may be observed during an eye examination.

Emergency Intervention and Treatment:

  • Seek Medical Help Immediately: An acute glaucoma crisis is an emergency situation and requires immediate attention from a healthcare professional.
  • Eye Medications: Your doctor may prescribe medications to lower the pressure inside the eye.
  • Oral Medications: Pills taken orally can reduce the production of fluid inside the eye and lower pressure.
  • Laser Treatment or Surgery: In some cases, laser treatment or surgery may be necessary to improve the outflow of fluid from the eye.

Considerations:

  • An acute glaucoma crisis is an emergency and must be treated immediately. If any symptoms appear, seek medical help right away.
  • An acute glaucoma crisis usually occurs when the pressure inside the eye is high. This can damage the optic nerve and lead to permanent vision loss.
  • Early treatment is crucial to prevent vision loss. Therefore, medical help should be sought immediately upon the appearance of symptoms.

An acute glaucoma crisis is a serious condition characterized by a sudden increase in eye pressure. This requires immediate medical intervention.