In acute angle-closure glaucoma, which symptom might prompt urgent medical evaluation?

• A. Abdominal pain
• B. Severe eye pain
• C. Rash
• D. Shortness of breath

Answer: (B)

Acute angle-closure glaucoma is a medical emergency because the pressure inside the eye rises rapidly, leading to sudden, severe eye pain and rapid vision changes. This intense pain signals the need for urgent evaluation to lower the intraocular pressure and prevent irreversible optic nerve damage. Severe eye pain is the most telling symptom of an acute attack and drives immediate care.

The other options don’t fit AACG. Abdominal pain, rash, and shortness of breath are not typical manifestations of an acute eye emergency and would suggest other medical issues.