Advanced Health Assessment Practice Exam

Which classic triad is associated with glaucoma?

1. Pain, Redness, Tearing

2. Tearing, Photophobia, Excessive blinking

3. Burning, Blurred vision, Photophobia

4. Itching, Tearing, Redness

The correct answer is: Tearing, Photophobia, Excessive blinking

The classic triad associated with glaucoma primarily includes symptoms such as tearing, photophobia, and excessive blinking, which correspond to the body's response to increased intraocular pressure. In glaucoma, these symptoms occur due to the eye's efforts to cope with potential damage to the optic nerve caused by the buildup of pressure. Tearing can be a natural reflex when the eye is in distress, while photophobia indicates sensitivity to light, a common occurrence in patients experiencing visual disturbances related to glaucoma. Excessive blinking may also result from discomfort or irritation caused by the elevated pressure. Other symptom combinations, such as pain, redness, burning, or simple itching, are more likely aligned with other ocular conditions rather than specifically pointing towards glaucoma. Glaucoma itself does not typically present with pain unless it is acute angle-closure glaucoma, where severe pain may be an indication of an emergency situation. Therefore, the selected triad accurately represents the typical symptoms that are associated with the chronic and insidious nature of glaucoma.