Retinitis Pigmentosa Symptoms

Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) affects the retina — the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye.
Symptoms often begin subtly and progress gradually, but they can dramatically impact independence and quality of life.

Dr. Andy Rosenfarb explains that the variability of RP symptoms is one of the clearest signs that RP is not just genetic. Environmental, immune, and lifestyle factors strongly influence how quickly and severely symptoms develop

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Early Symptoms of RP

The first signs often appear in adolescence or early adulthood:

• Night Blindness: Trouble seeing in dim light or at night.
• Slow adaptation: Difficulty adjusting when moving between light and dark environments.

Night blindness occurs because RP first damages the rod cells, which are responsible for vision in low light.

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Mid-Stage Symptoms

As RP progresses, the following symptoms appear:

• Tunnel Vision: Peripheral vision narrows, making it harder to navigate or notice objects off to the side.
• Increased Light Sensitivity (Photophobia): Bright light may feel overwhelming.
• Clumsiness or accidents: From difficulty perceiving surroundings.

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Advanced Symptoms

• Progressive Peripheral Vision Loss: Tunnel vision becomes more pronounced, leaving only central vision.
• Cone Cell Involvement: Later stages affect cones, leading to reduced color and central vision.
• Possible Severe Vision Loss: While some patients lose most functional vision, many retain some central vision into later life.

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Why Symptoms Vary

Even patients with the same genetic markers can experience RP differently.
This supports Dr. Rosenfarb’s view that autoimmunity, epigenetics, and lifestyle factors play key roles in disease progression.

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How Symptoms Affect Daily Life

• Night blindness limits driving at dusk or night.
• Tunnel vision makes it difficult to navigate crowds.
• Light sensitivity interferes with work or outdoor activities.
• Progressive loss creates emotional and psychological stress.

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Holistic Support for RP Symptoms

While conventional medicine has few solutions, Dr. Rosenfarb uses a holistic approach to support patients:

Acupuncture

Improves blood flow, reduces inflammation, and supports retinal function.

Functional Medicine

Addresses gut health, autoimmune triggers, and systemic inflammation.

Nutrition & Herbal Therapy

Provides antioxidants and essential fatty acids to protect photoreceptors.

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Next Steps

If you or a loved one are noticing symptoms of RP:

• Learn about causes of RP.
• Explore the autoimmune connection.
• Schedule a Telehealth consultation with Dr. Rosenfarb to discuss supportive treatment.

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