Chronic Angle-Closure Glaucoma
Chronic Angle-Closure Glaucoma
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) :
1. What is the difference between Chronic and Acute Angle-Closure Glaucoma?
Acute angle-closure glaucoma presents with sudden symptoms like eye pain and blurred vision, while chronic angle-closure glaucoma progresses slowly and may not show symptoms until significant damage has occurred.
2. Can Chronic Angle-Closure Glaucoma be prevented?
While the condition cannot be completely prevented, regular eye exams can detect it early, allowing for timely treatment to prevent vision loss.
3. Is laser treatment effective for Chronic Angle-Closure Glaucoma?
Yes, laser iridotomy is a common and effective procedure for treating chronic angle-closure glaucoma by improving fluid drainage and lowering intraocular pressure.
About Chronic Angle-Closure Glaucoma
Chronic Angle-Closure Glaucoma is a type of glaucoma that occurs when the drainage angle of the eye gradually becomes blocked, leading to an increase in intraocular pressure. This pressure damages the optic nerve over time, resulting in vision loss. Unlike acute angle-closure glaucoma, which occurs suddenly, the chronic form develops slowly and may go unnoticed until significant damage has occurred.
Causes of Chronic Angle-Closure Glaucoma
Several factors contribute to the development of Chronic Angle-Closure Glaucoma, including:
- Age: The condition is more common in individuals over 40.
- Genetics: Family history plays a significant role in increasing risk.
- Hyperopia (Farsightedness): People with farsightedness are at higher risk.
- Thin Cornea: A thinner cornea can predispose someone to this type of glaucoma.
- Ethnicity: People of Asian or Inuit descent have a higher likelihood of developing the condition.
Types of Angle-Closure Glaucoma
- Acute Angle-Closure Glaucoma: Sudden onset of symptoms, such as eye pain and blurred vision.
- Chronic Angle-Closure Glaucoma: Develops slowly, often without noticeable symptoms until significant vision loss occurs.
- Intermittent Angle-Closure Glaucoma: Symptoms come and go, often triggered by stress or dim lighting.
- Subacute Angle-Closure Glaucoma: Mild symptoms that resolve on their own, but the disease may progress silently.
Symptoms of Chronic Angle-Closure Glaucoma
In the early stages, symptoms of chronic angle-closure glaucoma may be subtle or absent, making regular eye check-ups essential. As the condition progresses, you may experience:
- Blurred or hazy vision
- Eye pain or discomfort, particularly in low light
- Headaches
- Halos around lights
- Nausea and vomiting in more advanced stages
- Gradual loss of peripheral vision
Diagnosis of Chronic Angle-Closure Glaucoma
Dr. Suraj Munjal employs a comprehensive approach to diagnosing Chronic Angle-Closure Glaucoma, which includes:
- Gonioscopy: A specialized test to examine the drainage angle.
- Tonometry: Measures intraocular pressure.
- Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): Provides detailed imaging of the optic nerve and retina.
- Visual Field Test: Assesses peripheral vision loss.
- Pachymetry: Measures corneal thickness.
Treatment Options for Chronic Angle-Closure Glaucoma
Treating Chronic Angle-Closure Glaucoma focuses on reducing intraocular pressure and preventing further damage. Common treatment options include:
- Medications: Eye drops or oral medications to lower intraocular pressure.
- Laser Therapy:
- Laser Iridotomy: Creates a small hole in the iris to improve fluid drainage.
- Laser Trabeculoplasty: Improves the drainage angle function.
- Surgery: In advanced cases, surgeries like trabeculectomy or glaucoma drainage implants may be necessary to reduce eye pressure.
Cost of Treatment and Stay in India
India is a renowned destination for affordable and high-quality medical care, particularly for ophthalmology. Dr. Suraj Munjal offers world-class treatment for Chronic Angle-Closure Glaucoma at competitive prices.
- Cost of Treatment: Depending on the severity and type of treatment required, the cost of glaucoma treatment in India ranges between $800 to $2,500 USD.
- Stay in India: Typically, patients will need to stay for around 7–10 days for pre-surgical consultations, surgery, and post-operative care.