Yo! My name is Andy and this is my eye care blog. Your eyes are so important but it can be easy to take them for granted. I know that I didn't think twice about my eyes until I started to have problems with my vision. I kept getting headaches and I had trouble focusing on things. I went to see my doctor who referred me to an optometrist. The eye specialist did some tests and asked me some questions. He then said that my regular use of screens was straining my eyes. Since following the advice given to me, my eyes have been much healthier.
Patients who have retinitis pigmentosa usually have a hard time capturing clear images from the field of vision. The condition affects the photoreceptor cells which are located in the retina. When the condition is left untreated, the vision of the patient declines because of the death of the rods and cones in the eye. The death of all the rods and cones in the retina can lead to complete loss of vision. Knowing the symptoms of the condition and the possible treatments will help you have an easier time managing it.
Signs that you could have RP
One of the common signs of RP is the inability to see in dim light, which happens due to the death of the rod cells. The symptom also includes having a hard time adjusting your vision when transitioning from light to darkness. Other symptoms include reduced eye sensitivity to colour and progressive loss of vision. You should visit a qualified optometrist for the appropriate tests and proper diagnosis of the condition.
Available treatments for the condition
RP is a hereditary disease, which means that there is nothing you can do to protect yourself from getting it. However, you can deal with the condition by maximising your remaining vision and making sure that your vision is as close to normal as possible. The available treatments for the condition include telescopic and magnifying lenses which are offered by optometrists. There are many other assistive technologies which help patients with visual impairment to adjust and cope with different stages of vision loss resulting from RP. Visiting an optometrist is, therefore, the first step towards complete recovery.
Retina implants for RP
This is another treatment alternative which is being explored for possible effectiveness in treating RP. The treatment involves implanting an electronic microchip which helps the remaining cells of the retina to visualise an image. The image which is created by the microchip is passed down the optic nerve and into the brain. Even though the image may not be clear and natural, it helps the person with the condition to see better than they otherwise would.
The best person to perform a diagnosis for RP is an optometrist. The experts will perform the right diagnostic tests to determine whether you have the condition or not. They will also come up with a suitable treatment and vision management plan depending on the amount of damage your retina has already suffered.
Share20 February 2018
