Narrow-angle glaucoma

Definition

Narrow-angle glaucoma is a type of glaucoma characterized by a sudden increase in intraocular pressure due to the blockage of the drainage angle formed by the cornea and the iris. This condition can lead to severe pain, vision loss, and requires immediate medical attention. Understanding narrow-angle glaucoma is crucial when considering the effects of certain medications, especially those that act as anxiolytics, sedatives, and hypnotics, as they can potentially exacerbate this condition by causing pupil dilation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Narrow-angle glaucoma is often acute and can present with symptoms such as intense eye pain, headache, nausea, and vomiting.
2. The condition may be triggered by medications that cause pupil dilation, such as certain antidepressants and antihistamines.
3. Treatment options for narrow-angle glaucoma include medications to lower intraocular pressure and surgical procedures to create a new drainage pathway.
4. People with a family history of narrow-angle glaucoma or those with hyperopia (farsightedness) are at a higher risk for developing this condition.
5. Regular eye examinations are essential for early detection and management of narrow-angle glaucoma to prevent permanent vision loss.

Review Questions

• How does pupil dilation relate to the risk of developing narrow-angle glaucoma?
  • Pupil dilation can significantly increase the risk of developing narrow-angle glaucoma because it narrows the drainage angle between the cornea and iris. When certain medications induce pupil dilation, they may block or close this angle, leading to a rapid increase in intraocular pressure. This sudden change can cause acute symptoms and necessitate immediate treatment to prevent damage to the optic nerve.
• What are the potential impacts of anxiolytics and sedatives on patients at risk for narrow-angle glaucoma?
  • Anxiolytics and sedatives can pose significant risks for patients with narrow-angle glaucoma because many of these medications can cause pupil dilation. This dilation may precipitate an acute attack by obstructing the drainage angle in susceptible individuals. Therefore, healthcare providers need to assess eye health when prescribing these medications and consider alternatives if necessary.
• Evaluate the importance of patient education regarding medication side effects for individuals diagnosed with narrow-angle glaucoma.
  • Patient education is crucial for individuals diagnosed with narrow-angle glaucoma because it empowers them to recognize symptoms and understand medication risks. By informing patients about how certain medications can lead to pupil dilation and potentially trigger an acute episode, they can make safer choices about their treatment options. This knowledge also encourages proactive communication with healthcare providers regarding any new prescriptions or changes in their treatment plan.

Related terms

Intraocular Pressure: The fluid pressure inside the eye, which can rise and lead to damage of the optic nerve in glaucoma.

Pupil Dilation: The process where the pupils widen, which can occur with certain medications and potentially trigger or worsen narrow-angle glaucoma.

Angle Closure: A condition where the drainage angle between the cornea and iris becomes blocked, leading to an increase in intraocular pressure characteristic of narrow-angle glaucoma.