There are two major types of glaucoma:
Open-Angle Glaucoma
This is the most common type of glaucoma. As it is painless, it can begin to affect the vision without any warning signs or symptoms. As the condition worsens, it impacts on peripheral vision in both eyes, resulting in blind spots. In the advanced stages, it can lead to tunnel vision.
However, if detected early enough, open-angle glaucoma will usually respond well to glaucoma treatment.
Angle-Closure (Acute) Glaucoma
This is a severely painful variety of the disease and can cause severe pain in the eye, headache, nausea, vomiting and significant blurring of vision. Acute angle closure glaucoma can lead to permanent blindness if not detected and treated early.
Acute angle closure glaucoma is caused by abrupt blocking of the drainage channels in the eye through which fluid normally exits the eye. This results in rapid buildup of fluid, leading to a severe increase in pressure in the eye.