What is a common characteristic of glaucoma progression?

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that can lead to damage to the optic nerve, often associated with increased intraocular pressure. One of the hallmark features of glaucoma progression is the gradual loss of peripheral vision. This loss typically occurs without noticeable symptoms in the early stages, making it difficult for individuals to recognize the problem until significant damage has occurred.

The gradual nature of peripheral vision loss is characteristic of the most common type of glaucoma, primary open-angle glaucoma. As the disease progresses, people may not notice changes until they reach advanced stages, when central vision is eventually affected. Therefore, the emphasis on gradual peripheral vision loss accurately reflects the slow and insidious nature of glaucoma progression, distinguishing it from other potential eye conditions that might present with more acute symptoms or different patterns of vision loss.