For the majority of glaucoma cases, including the most common form, open-angle, there are no discernable symptoms until the optic nerve is damaged and side (peripheral) vision is lost. For this reason, regular eye exams are critical to detection and treatment of the disease.
Open-angle Glaucoma
Open-angle glaucoma, the most common form, initially has no symptoms. The pressure in the eye builds up gradually. At some point, the optic nerve is damaged and side vision (peripheral vision) is lost. Without treatment, total blindness will occur. Similarly, people with normal-tension glaucoma will not experience any symptoms until they begin to lose peripheral vision.- View the progression of open-angle glaucoma as seen through the eyes of the patient:
Acute Angle-closure Glaucoma
Acute angle-closure glaucoma is the result of a sudden blockage in the normal flow of eye fluid (aqueous humor) between the iris and the lens. Symptoms may include severe pain, nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, and seeing a rainbow halo around lights. Acute angle-closure glaucoma is a medical emergency and must be treated immediately or blindness could result in one or two days. Chronic angle-closure glaucoma progresses more slowly and can damage the optic nerve without symptoms as in open-angle glaucoma.
