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DHA Omega-3 & Retinitis Pigmentosa

Mar 6, 2011 | By Kay Rockwell

Retinitis pigmentosa is an eye disease that often runs in families and typically begins in childhood. This condition damages the photoreceptors in the retina, the tissue lining the back of your eye, and as these photoreceptors die, vision gradually worsens. Photoreceptor damage is often permanent, and doctors do not have any known treatments or medications to prescribe for this condition. However, some research indicates that nutrients such as DHA omega-3 may help slow progression of the disease.

Diagnosis

Many people with retinitis pigmentosa lose vision at such a rate that they are legally blind by around age 40. Symptoms may include poor night vision, loss of side vision or loss of straight-ahead vision. Doctors can detect retinitis pigmentosa through testing and an eye examination. The eye doctor will test the vision in each eye, including side vision, to determine any changes. She will dilate both pupils and use a special microscope called a slit lamp to examine the front and back of both eyes, including the retinal tissue. Based on symptoms and findings from the examination, the doctor can determine the presence of this condition.

DHA

DHA, also known as docosahexaenoic acid, is a type of omega-3 fatty acid found in food sources that include fatty fish such as salmon and sardines, as well as seaweed. Supplements such as fish oil capsules also provide DHA. This omega-3 might offer some benefits to many health conditions, and research indicates a possible benefit for retinitis pigmentosa. In 2004, Eliot L. Berson, M.D., and colleagues evaluated the benefits of DHA use on slowing down the progression of retinitis pigmentosa. The study determined that a diet rich in DHA omega-3 fatty acids may have a beneficial effect for people with this disease. However, the National Eye Institute has not made any treatment recommendations based on this or any other DHA and retinitis pigmentosa study.

Treatment

Doctors do not have any effective way to treat retinitis pigmentosa, but vitamin A may help. The National Eye Institute reported in 1993 that 15,000 international units of vitamin A might help slow down the progression of the disease, but that a total intake of 18,000 IU, combining diet and supplements, had the greatest effect. High doses of vitamin A could cause side effects, so consult your doctor prior to starting a vitamin A regimen.

Considerations

If you or a family member has any changes in vision, contact your eye doctor immediately. Early diagnosis, coupled with starting DHA, vitamin A or both, could help slow down the disease process. You should not begin using supplements such as DHA without first talking with your doctor.

References

Article reviewed by Christine Brncik Last updated on: Mar 6, 2011

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