At which stage does retinitis pigmentosa start affecting vision the most?

Retinitis pigmentosa primarily affects peripheral vision before central vision, making this stage particularly critical in the progression of the disease. Individuals typically begin to experience difficulties with their peripheral and night vision as the photoreceptors in the peripheral retina (rods) deteriorate first. This leads to symptoms such as tunnel vision, where the field of view narrows.

As the condition progresses, it may subsequently affect central vision and color perception, but peripheral night vision is notably impacted earlier and more significantly. This early loss can lead to challenges in navigating low-light environments and can greatly influence overall mobility and quality of life. Understanding this progression is vital for recognizing the implications of the disease and for proactive management strategies.