Prevention Strategies for Retinitis Pigmentosa

Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) cannot always be avoided, but progression is not entirely out of a patient’s control.
Dr. Andy Rosenfarb emphasizes prevention as a critical piece of care:

“We can’t change the genes, but we can change how they express. If we reduce stress and inflammation, we can slow RP down and give people more years of usable vision.”

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Why Prevention Matters in RP

• Genetics provide predisposition, but autoimmunity and epigenetics drive progression.
• Addressing triggers early can delay vision loss.
• Prevention empowers patients to take active steps in their own care.

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Lifestyle Strategies

• Exercise regularly to improve circulation and lower inflammation.
• Manage stress with qigong, meditation, or breathing practices.
• Protect sleep to regulate hormones and immune function.
• Avoid smoking and toxins that damage blood vessels and retina.

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Nutritional Strategies

• Antioxidants: Lutein, zeaxanthin, glutathione, and vitamin C/E protect against oxidative stress.
• Omega-3s (DHA): Critical for nerve and retinal health.
• Enzymes (nattokinase, serrapeptase): Reduce clotting and improve microcirculation.
• Anti-inflammatory diet: Whole foods, low sugar, high in greens and healthy fats.

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Stress Reduction

Dr. Rosenfarb frequently warns that unmanaged stress accelerates vision loss:

• Raises cortisol and blood pressure
• Triggers inflammation
• Weakens immune regulation

Calming the nervous system is as important as supplements or acupuncture in slowing RP.

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Holistic Therapies for Prevention

Acupuncture

Improves retinal circulation and lowers inflammation.

Functional Medicine

Repairs gut health, balances immunity, and addresses systemic risk factors.

Herbal Support

Calms immune overactivity and supports vascular health.

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Conventional vs Holistic Prevention

• Conventional medicine: Focuses on genetic counseling and monitoring.
• Holistic approach: Offers proactive strategies to slow RP through lifestyle, nutrition, and therapies that support the retina.

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Next Steps

If you or a loved one has RP:

• Learn about supplement options.
• Explore natural treatments.
• Schedule a Telehealth consultation to create a personalized prevention plan with Dr. Rosenfarb.

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