A serious eye disease, glaucoma may result in vision loss if untreated. One form, angle-closure glaucoma, occurs when there is a block in the eye's drainage angle, leading to a sudden increase in intraocular pressure (IOP). Understanding the glaucoma treatment OKC options available for this condition, along with open-angle glaucoma (another major type of this condition), is crucial for those living with it.

 

 

What Is Angle-Closure Glaucoma?

Angle-closure glaucoma (ACG), also known as closed-angle glaucoma or narrow-angle glaucoma, happens when the iris bulges and narrows or blocks the drainage angle. When this happens, fluid cannot circulate through the eye, leading to increased pressure and possible damage to the optic nerve.

Symptoms of angle-closure glaucoma may include:

●        Severe eye pain

●        Headaches

●        Nausea and vomiting

●        Blurred vision

●        Halos around lights

●        Eye redness

Angle-closure glaucoma can occur suddenly or over time. Regardless, it is a medical emergency. Immediate treatment is crucial to prevent permanent vision loss.

 

 

What About Open-Angle Glaucoma?

Open-angle glaucoma (OAG) occurs when the eye's natural outflow system is dysfunctional, which can cause fluid to build up. As a result, intraocular pressure can rise and may eventually lead to vision loss. Unlike angle-closure glaucoma, open-angle glaucoma is usually painless and leaves vision unaffected in its early stages. It is the most common type of glaucoma.

 

 

How Can Cornea Doctors Oklahoma Help With Glaucoma?

 

Whether you have angle-closure or open-angle glaucoma, cornea doctors Oklahoma are essential to preserving your vision. While no cure for glaucoma currently exists, there are ways to prevent the condition from further impacting your vision and livelihood, including:

 

 

Medications

One of the main goals of glaucoma treatment OKC is to decrease eye pressure, and your doctor may prescribe medications to help with this. Oral and topical medications like eye drops are often the first line of treatment.

 

 

Laser Therapy

Certain laser treatments are effective for glaucoma. Types of laser therapy include:

●        Laser Peripheral Iridotomy (LPI). Commonly used for angle-closure glaucoma, LPI creates a small hole in the iris to improve fluid drainage.

●        Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty. This laser treatment helps drain fluid more effectively by targeting specific cells.

●        Laser Cyclophotocoagulation. This laser procedure reduces the eye's fluid production by focusing on the ciliary body.

 

 

Surgery

When medications and laser therapy are insufficient, surgery may be necessary to treat glaucoma. Surgical procedures include:

●        Trabeculectomy. This procedure