What is the characteristic pain described by clients experiencing acute-angle closure glaucoma?

Clients experiencing acute-angle closure glaucoma typically describe their pain as severe periocular pain. This pain can be intense and is often located around the eye, which aligns with the sudden increase in intraocular pressure that occurs during an acute attack. Alongside this severe pain, patients may also exhibit other symptoms such as blurred vision, halos around lights, nausea, and vomiting.

The distinction of periocular pain is crucial here, as it reflects not just discomfort but a significant and acute response to the pathophysiological changes occurring in the eye. This type of pain is often sharp and can be debilitating, prompting urgent care needs. Understanding this pain characteristic is vital for proper assessment and management in a clinical setting.