What is Retinitis Pigmentosa, and how does it affect vision over time?

Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) is a rare, inherited eye disease that affects the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. It causes the gradual breakdown and loss of retinal cells, leading to progressive vision loss.
People with RP typically first notice difficulty seeing at night (night blindness) and a narrowing of their peripheral vision—sometimes described as "tunnel vision." Over time, central vision can also be affected, potentially leading to significant visual impairment or blindness.
While there is currently no cure, regular eye exams and genetic counselling are important for diagnosis and management. New treatments, including gene therapy and retinal implants, are being researched and show promise for the future.