Which is an early sign of open-angle glaucoma?

Which is an early sign of open-angle glaucoma?

• A. Patchy blind spots in peripheral vision.
• B. Tunnel vision.
• C. Loss of central vision.
• D. Visual halos around lights.

Answer: (A)

In open-angle glaucoma, the earliest functional change is in the peripheral visual field due to gradual damage to retinal ganglion cells and the optic nerve. The best early sign is patchy blind spots in peripheral vision, which patients may not notice at first because central vision remains clear. Central vision loss and halos around lights are not typical early signs of open-angle glaucoma—the halos are more associated with acute angle-closure glaucoma or cataracts, and central vision loss points to macular problems or advanced disease. Tunnel vision describes a later, more severe constriction of the visual field, not an early finding. Regular eye exams with pressure checks and visual field testing are key for catching this early.

In open-angle glaucoma, the earliest functional change is in the peripheral visual field due to gradual damage to retinal ganglion cells and the optic nerve. The best early sign is patchy blind spots in peripheral vision, which patients may not notice at first because central vision remains clear. Central vision loss and halos around lights are not typical early signs of open-angle glaucoma—the halos are more associated with acute angle-closure glaucoma or cataracts, and central vision loss points to macular problems or advanced disease. Tunnel vision describes a later, more severe constriction of the visual field, not an early finding. Regular eye exams with pressure checks and visual field testing are key for catching this early.