What symptoms might indicate a need for a glaucoma screening?

C. Peripheral vision loss and seeing halos around lights are significant symptoms that may indicate the presence of glaucoma, a condition that affects the optic nerve and can result in irreversible vision loss if not detected and treated early.

Glaucoma often progresses without noticeable symptoms until significant damage has occurred, making it crucial to recognize early warning signs. Peripheral vision loss indicates that the peripheral field is being compromised, which is a hallmark of glaucoma. In addition, seeing halos around lights is particularly associated with angle-closure glaucoma, where increased intraocular pressure causes visual disturbances.

The other symptoms mentioned do not typically correlate with glaucoma. Increased sensitivity to light may suggest other ocular conditions but is not specifically indicative of glaucoma. Painful swelling of the eyelids may pertain to conditions like blepharitis or allergies but does not directly relate to glaucoma. Occasional dryness or redness of the eyes could be associated with dry eye syndrome or other surface issues, but these do not signal the need for a glaucoma screening. Recognizing the correct symptoms helps in the timely identification and management of glaucoma to preserve vision.