When to Seek Medical Care

Call your doctor right away if you have severe eye pain or a sudden loss of vision, especially loss of peripheral or side vision.

Many of the medications used to treat glaucoma may have side effects, which may include stinging or redness of the eyes; blurred vision; headache; or changes in heartbeat, pulse, or breathing. Most side effects are not serious and go away without difficulty. Not everyone will experience side effects from glaucoma medications, but notify your doctor if you experience any of them.

With angle-closure glaucoma, a rapid buildup of IOP may lead to blurred vision, severe eye pain, headache, abdominal pain, or nausea and vomiting. While angle-closure glaucoma is rare, it is a serious form of the disease and, unless treated quickly, can result in blindness. If you have these symptoms, you should seek medical attention immediately for evaluation and treatment in order to prevent permanent vision loss.