What Are Some of the Questions I Should Ask My Eye Doctor?

1. What changes can I expect in my vision?
2. Will my vision loss get worse? How much of my vision will I lose?
3. Will regular eyeglasses improve my vision?
4. What medical/surgical treatments are available for my condition?
5. What can I do to protect or prolong my vision?

Usher Syndrome - Risk Factors

Recent research findings suggest that in some forms of retinal degeneration, prolonged, unprotected exposure to sunlight may accelerate vision loss. Therefore, The Foundation recommends that patients wear sunglasses and brimmed hats or visors when outdoors.

• What is Usher syndrome?
• How is Usher syndrome inherited?
• What treatments are available?
  
• Are there any related diseases?

What is Usher Syndrome?

Usher syndrome is an inherited condition characterized by hearing impairment and progressive vision loss. The vision loss is due to retinitis pigmentosa (RP), a degenerative condition of the retina, and usually appears during adolescence or early adulthood. Balance may also be affected. Symptoms vary from person to person and progress at different rates.

Researchers funded by The Foundation Fighting Blindness (FFB) are studying causes and potential treatments for Usher syndrome and other retinal degenerative diseases. Excellent progress in research has been made recently.