Retinitis PigmentosaThis condition is characterized by degeneration of the retina and the choroid, usually involving an abnormal development of excess pigment. It is hereditary, with a variety of patterns of inheritance and development. The pattern of development most frequently observed is as follows: At approximately age ten or twelve, the youngster begins to experience some difficulty in seeing at night and in poorly lighted area. The visual field also begins to narrow, although it may not be noticed at first. The visual loss is progressive, so that the individual usually becomes legally blind by young adulthood and slowly loses more and more vision thereafter. Many adults with retinitis pigmentosa have a very tiny field of vision in which they see well under a good light but which is so small as to be of little use. Total blindness often results. There may or may not be additional problems, such as cataracts. There is no known treatment. These are a very few of the eye disorders which may result in blindness. As we said earlier, we urge you to consult an eye specialist for any medical questions or problems. The American Action Fund for Blind Children and Adults is happy to answer any questions about blindness and how to function competently as a blind person, but we are not involved in medical research to prevent eye disease or to restore vision and therefore are not in a position to answer your questions of a medical nature. If you, a family member, or a friend discover that you have an eye condition
that may result in blindness, we urge you to contact us for information
about how to continue functioning well in your situation. Blindness need
not keep you from doing the things you want to do. You will likely need
to take a little time to learn to do things in a different way, but there
are many services and many people who are willing to help you learn. |