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Narrow-Angle Glaucoma (NAG), also called angle-closure glaucoma, is a severe type of glaucoma where the iris (the colored part of the eye) is physically pushed forward. This action creates a blockage of the drainage channel (trabecular meshwork) located where the iris and the cornea meet.
read more about narrow angle glaucoma nag ...When the drainage channel is obstructed, the clear fluid (aqueous humor) produced in the eye cannot exit. This causes the pressure inside the eye (IOP) to spike suddenly and dramatically. This extreme pressure damages the optic nerve quickly, leading to rapid, irreversible vision loss, beginning with peripheral (side) vision.
Yes, this condition constitutes a medical emergency. An acute attack of Narrow-Angle Glaucoma is a sight-threatening crisis that can cause permanent blindness within a few hours. Symptoms include sudden, intense eye pain, a severe headache, blurry vision, and the perception of halos or rings around lights.
Yes. Immediate treatment requires urgent medical intervention, including powerful prescription eye drops to rapidly reduce the pressure. This is followed by a laser peripheral iridotomy (LPI), a prescription laser procedure that creates a tiny opening in the iris to permanently restore the fluid drainage path.
If you suspect an acute attack, you must seek emergency medical care immediately. For long-term care:
Is Narrow-Angle Glaucoma an emergency?
Yes. An acute attack is a critical medical emergency requiring immediate attention to prevent permanent vision loss.
How is it prevented?
It is prevented by a quick and simple preventative laser procedure called laser peripheral iridotomy (LPI), which is performed when a doctor identifies a narrow angle.
Can my eye doctor check if I'm at risk?
Yes, doctors can use a technique called gonioscopy during your examination to check the width of your angle and determine if you are at risk.