Which condition is characterized by blurred vision and eye pain?

Acute angle-closure glaucoma is characterized by a sudden increase in intraocular pressure, which can lead to both blurred vision and significant eye pain. In this condition, the drainage angle of the eye becomes blocked, often resulting in a rapid buildup of pressure that can cause damage to the optic nerve if not treated promptly. The pain is typically severe and may be accompanied by symptoms such as headache, nausea, and vomiting.

Blurred vision occurs because the increased pressure affects the eye's ability to focus properly. The pain is a key indicator that differentiates this condition from others; it is often described as a deep, aching pain. The acute nature of the presentation, along with these symptoms, makes acute angle-closure glaucoma a medical emergency, requiring immediate intervention to lower the intraocular pressure and relieve the symptoms.

In contrast, while other conditions like retinal detachments may also cause blurred vision, they do not typically present with the same degree of eye pain or the acute pressure increase seen in glaucoma. Cataracts generally cause gradual vision changes without acute pain, and myopic degeneration involves vision loss due to changes in the retina rather than acute symptoms associated with elevated intraocular pressure.