Symptoms of Glaucoma

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.

Acute Closed-angle Glaucoma

Acute closed-angle 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 closed-angle glaucoma is a medical emergency and must be treated immediately or blindness could result in one or two days. Chronic closed-angle glaucoma progresses more slowly and can damage the optic nerve without symptoms as in open-angle glaucoma.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this section is a public service of the American Health Assistance Foundation, and should not in any way substitute for the advice of a qualified healthcare professional and is not intended to constitute medical advice. Although we take efforts to keep the medical information on our website updated, we cannot guarantee that the information on our website reflects the most up-to-date research. Please consult your physician for personalized medical advice; all medications and supplements should only be taken under medical supervision. The American Health Assistance Foundation does not endorse any medical product or therapy.

Source: The American Health Assistance Foundation is grateful to Carla J. Siegfried, M.D. at Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri for reviewing aspects of the above content.

Last Reviewed On: 11/21/08