Certified Paraoptometric Practice Test

What are common signs of glaucoma?

1. Reduced color perception and night blindness

2. Increased intraocular pressure and peripheral vision loss

3. Double vision and headaches

4. Dry eye and redness of the eye

The correct answer is: Increased intraocular pressure and peripheral vision loss

Increased intraocular pressure and peripheral vision loss are hallmark signs of glaucoma. Glaucoma is often characterized by damage to the optic nerve, which can result from elevated pressure within the eye. This increased intraocular pressure, if left untreated, can lead to progressive peripheral vision loss, which is why many glaucoma patients may not realize they have the condition until significant damage has occurred. Peripheral vision loss typically starts with a narrowing of the visual field, making it challenging to see objects outside your central vision. As the condition progresses, individuals may have difficulty with tasks that require a wide field of vision, such as driving or navigating their environment safely. Identifying elevated intraocular pressure is crucial, as timely diagnosis and treatment can help slow or prevent further damage to the optic nerve and preserve vision. The other options present symptoms that may relate to different eye conditions rather than being specific indicators of glaucoma.