Retinitis Pigmentosa

Retinitis Pigmentosa refers to a group of diseases which cause a slow but progressive vision loss. In each of them there is a gradual loss of the light-sensitive retinal cells called rods and cones. Most forms of RP are inherited or genetic, though its signs do not necessarily appear in every generation.

Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) is a group of genetic disorders that affect the retina's ability to respond to light. RP often runs in the family and the degree of vision varies from person to person. A person with RP experiences a decrease in the night vision which goes on to loss of side vision and may eventually result in blindness. Till date there is no cure for RP.

Learning more about your family history may help you and your doctor to make informed decisions about treatment and eventually a cure for RP. In some cases, RP may be associated with other health problems, such as hearing loss. People with RP may also develop other treatable eye diseases, such as glaucoma and cataract.

Symptoms

• Night blindness 
• Loss of peripheral vision 
• Symptoms usually start during young adulthood, although RP may be seen at any age.
• The symptoms described above may not necessarily mean that you have retinitis pigmentosa. However, if you experience one or more of these symptoms, contact your eye doctor for a complete exam.

For people with reduced vision due to Retinitis Pigmentosa, video magnifiers can help. They can provide both the magnification and the extra contrast and brightness to help with reading and other tasks. For those who have lost most or all their sight, screen reading software is recommended.

Since retinitis pigmentosa usually begins in childhood, when people are still learning methods for reading, Braille is also a good solution.

The following assistive devices may help if you have been diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa:

JAWS Screen Reading Software is for computer users whose vision loss prevents them from seeing screen content or navigating with a mouse.

TOPAZ Desktop Video Magnifiers allow you to read magazines and letters, view family photos, write checks, or engage in your favourite hobby, all in the comfort of your home or office.

The information provided on this site is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.