The correct spelling of "acute angle closure glaucoma," a disease of the eye, can be a challenge to remember. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is /əˈkjuːt ˈæŋɡəl ˈkləʊʒəmə/. The first syllable of "acute" is unstressed, represented by the schwa symbol /ə/. The second syllable is pronounced as /kjuːt/ with a long u sound. "Angle" is pronounced as /æŋɡəl/, with a slight emphasis on the first syllable. Finally, "closure glaucoma" is pronounced with two slightly stressed syllables, /kləʊʒəmə/. Remembering these phonetic sounds can help ensure correct spelling.
Acute angle closure glaucoma is a medical condition characterized by the sudden and rapid increase in intraocular pressure (IOP) within the eye, causing severe damage to the optic nerve and potentially leading to permanent vision loss if left untreated. This condition occurs due to the obstruction of fluid drainage in the eye, resulting in a buildup of aqueous humor, the fluid responsible for maintaining the eye's pressure.
An acute angle closure glaucoma episode often occurs when the drainage angle between the cornea and iris becomes blocked abruptly. This blockage can be caused by several factors, including a crowded anterior chamber angle, where the iris is positioned too close to the drainage angle, or when the lens bulges forward, pushing the iris against the drainage angle.
Symptoms of acute angle closure glaucoma usually include intense eye pain, severe headache, blurred vision, halos around lights, redness of the eye, nausea, and vomiting. The condition requires urgent medical attention as the high IOP can cause damage to the optic nerve within hours.
The treatment for acute angle closure glaucoma aims to reduce the intraocular pressure and relieve the symptoms. It typically involves the use of medication such as eye drops to reduce IOP and induce pupillary constriction, which opens the angle for better fluid drainage. In more severe cases, laser or surgical procedures may be necessary to create a new opening for drainage or to remove part of the iris to prevent future blockages. Regular follow-up examinations are essential to monitor and manage the condition effectively and prevent further vision loss.