Retinitis Pigmentosa

Retinitis Pigmentosa

The term retinitis pigmentosa (RP) refers to a set of degenerative genetic diseases that gradually kill off the light-sensing cells (rods and cones) of the retina, eventually causing blindness. It is a relatively rare genetic disorder, affecting only 1 in 4,000 people. Retinitis pigmentosa can be difficult to adapt to without proper support. Although there is currently no cure for RP, regular visits with your eye care professional are important to monitor the progression of the disease, adapt to the condition, and become aware as new RP treatments are available.

Symptoms of Retinitis Pigmentosa

Although there are variations dictating how a person inherits and develops retinitis pigmentosa, this condition is usually characterized by the following symptoms:

  • Poor and narrowing peripheral (side) vision.
  • Difficulty seeing or driving in dimly-lit conditions. This is often called “night blindness.”
  • As the disease progresses, vision may narrow to just a small, central vision field or “tunnel vision.”
  • Difficulty discerning colors.
  • Problems reading or doing intricate work due to deficiencies in the central field of vision, which often disappears first.

The progression of the disease can vary significantly depending on whether the condition is inherited as a dominant or recessive trait. Regular testing by your eye care professional is very important if you have RP for two reasons:

  1. Eye exams and vision tests can give you an idea of how your condition is progressing so that you can be aware of and prepare for any adaptations you need to make as your vision declines.
  2. With modern technology, there are currently efforts under way to provide treatments to slow the progression of RP, or to create solutions that simulate the behavior of healthy retina cells. Your eye care professional can inform you of any developments that might be able to make a positive impact in the quality of your life as you live with this condition.

If you or a loved one suffers from any of these symptoms, please contact your eye care professional today for an appointment.

Locations

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Hours of Operation

Our Regular Schedule

Central Avenue Office

Monday:

10:00 am-7:00 pm

Tuesday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Wednesday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Thursday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Friday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed

Arrowhead Road Office

Monday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Tuesday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Wednesday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Thursday:

10:00 am-7:00 pm

Friday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed

Testimonials

See What Our Patients Say!

  • "Theobald is an amazing Eye Care Clinic. The Doctors are so knowledgeable and professional. They are also fun to talk to. I absolutely love Dr. Teresa. She has been my primary eye doctor for several years. I couldn’t be happier with the clinic or their staff. Everyone there is friendly and easy to work with. The eye glass selection is great too."
    Jessica P.
  • "Just wanted to shout out to Theobald Eye Clinic-what an awesome staff you have at the Arrowhead office. My dad brought my uncle, Warren, in to get his prescription for his glasses filled this afternoon. Everything was easy and quick. Everyone is amazing. Love this staff. Very caring and kind."
    Shellie G.
  • "I've really never had a detailed discussion of my eyes before this visit. I was amazed and answered many questions i have had. I felt very comfortable and I'm confident I've found a doc who can be part of my health plan going forward. I had lots of help choosing some cool reading glasses as well!"
    Paul S.
  • "We LOVE Dr. Theobald and all the office staff. We have been going here for 6 years. You can tell they truly care about you."
    Anne M.
  • "I hate picking out glasses and I was so relieved when the staff here made it so easy! They really know how to help you pick glasses that are the right shape for your face so you always look your best. They are not only knowledgeable but have a great selection of glasses to pick from! I could not be happier with the pair they helped me pick out and it was a relief to feel confident in my choice after I left! Thank you Theobald family eye care!"
    Mandi J.
  • "Always a great experience for my entire family. Great selection of frames also."
    Steve S.
  • "We have been seeing Dr. Theobald for about 6 years now and they always treat us very good and take good care of our eyes!"
    Sarah W.
  • "Everyone here is EYEmazing! Accommodating, caring, thoughtful, friendly, kind and knowledgeable. A ++ with kids and adults! We will be back for our next check up! 🕶"
    Alana W.
  • "The Dr's and staff are very helpful and professional. My family has been going here for 8+ years and I recommend them to everyone. They also have a great selection of eyewear for any style."
    Heather B.
  • "I was blown away by the professionalism and courtesy of the staff! highly recommend to everyone!! Thank you so much for giving me and my kid's such amazing service! We can't wait to come back again!"
    Mary M.