Which type of glaucoma is symptomless?

Open-angle glaucoma is often referred to as a symptomless or "silent" type of glaucoma because it typically progresses slowly and does not present noticeable symptoms in its early stages. Many individuals with open-angle glaucoma may not be aware they have the condition until significant damage has occurred, usually in the form of peripheral vision loss. This lack of symptoms is concerning, as it can lead to the disease being undetected for a long time, making regular eye exams essential for early detection.

In contrast, other types of glaucoma, such as angle-closure glaucoma, can present with acute symptoms like severe eye pain, headache, nausea, and sudden vision changes. Congenital glaucoma might show symptoms at birth or in early childhood, and secondary glaucoma can occur due to other medical conditions and may also have associated symptoms depending on its cause.