Retinitis Pigmentosa Symptoms

Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is an inherited, degenerative eye disease that causes severe vision impairment due to the progressive degeneration of cells in the retina. This form of retinal dystrophy manifests initial symptoms independent of age; thus, RP diagnosis can occur anywhere from early infancy to late adulthood.

In the early stages of RP, patients may first notice compromised peripheral vision and problems seeing in dim lighting.  Other retinitis pigmentosa symptoms include:

• Tendency to trip easily
• Loss of night vision
• Bumping into things when lighting is poor
• Reduction in peripheral vision
• Eye fatigue or strain
• Loss of contrast sensitivity
• Glare

As the disease progresses, peripheral vision disappears and blindness often occurs.  Research has shown that supplements (lutein, Vitamin A) and omega-3 fatty acid DHA can slow the disease. If you suspect you may have retinitis pigmentosa, please contact the doctors Associated Retina Consultants in Phoenix at 602-242-4928 or associatedretinaconsultants.com.