Retinitis pigmentosa

Retinitis pigmentosa is a group of inherited retinal conditions in which night vision and the peripheral visual field gradually decline. The rate varies greatly. Sudden flashes, many new floaters, a dark curtain or rapid loss of vision are not part of ordinary gradual RP and are eye emergencies.

• Difficulty seeing in dim light and darkness, and slow adaptation from light to dark.
• Bumping into people or objects outside the central visual field.
• Provide good lighting without glare and clear contrast at stairs, edges and doorways.
• Keep walking routes clear and use mobility training, a white cane or other aids if needed.
• Make an appointment for gradually worsening night vision, bumping into things to the side or RP in the family.
• For urgent GP care outside normal opening hours, call HAP 9252. Call Ambulance 912 only for an immediately life-threatening situation.