What is a potential complication of untreated glaucoma?

Blindness is a potential complication of untreated glaucoma due to the progressive damage that this condition causes to the optic nerve. Glaucoma is often associated with elevated intraocular pressure, which, if left unaddressed, can lead to irreversible vision loss. The optic nerve is critical for transmitting visual information from the eye to the brain; when it becomes damaged—often due to prolonged pressure—it can result in a gradual loss of peripheral vision, eventually leading to complete blindness.

Other potential options might seem plausible, but they do not directly relate to the primary consequences of untreated glaucoma. Hearing loss and infections are not typical complications associated with this eye condition, and decreased intraocular pressure would not be a complication but rather a desired outcome in maintaining eye health. Therefore, recognizing blindness as a major risk emphasizes the importance of early detection and treatment of glaucoma to preserve vision.