Eye pain and tearing

[DC1817]

I have narrow angle glaucoma and have had the iridotomy (sp?) in both eyes although the procedure didn't open the angles as much as my doctor would have liked.  I have not had the shunt installation. I am taking no medications for the glaucoma and so far as I know have not had an attack.  I am checked every six months.  Last night during the night I was awakened with pain in my left eye and a great amount of tearing.  It has now been more than 5 hours and I still have the pain in my eye and tearing.  The vision does not seem to be affected.  The eye is sensitive to pressure.  I do not have a headache.  Is this a glaucoma attack or did I perhaps hit my eye while sleeping? Thank you.

[DC1817]

Thank you for your comments on your experience.  I do have meds which I carry when I travel to areas without immediately available top quality health care.  The pain and tearing lessened as the day progressed and I spoke with my doctor.

[DC1817]

Thank you Dr. Oyakawa.  I was able to talk to my doctor and because the pain and tearing had considerably lessened by the afternoon, he suggested I monitor and call him tomorrow. I'll probably have him check my eye in any event even if the pain does not return because I'll be traveling next week.  Thanks again.

[Onnieellen]

Dr. Oyakawa is correct recommending immediate medical attention for a possible narrow angle attack. I hope you were able to see your doctor ASAP.....
I suffered from  (occasional) narrow angle glaucoma attacks for 25 years. In my instance,  
there was no doubt I was having an attack. The eye pain was extreme.....making me nauseous....It felt like my eyes would explode..... My vision would pulsate. You may want to ask your doctor to prescribe pilocarpine to self medicate during attacks. The drops usually relieved pressure within 15 minutes. If you want to contact me, I'm willing to answer any questions....

[Ray T Oyakawa, MD]

You need to see your ophthalmologist ASAP.  Many causes, but you must rule out closesure of the PI.