Usher syndrome is a condition that is inherited from your parents. It causes hearing and vision loss. Vision loss happens because of an associated disease called retinitis pigmentosa. This is when light-sensitive cells in the retina die, causing blindness over time. Treatment can include learning Braille and how to use low-vision devices and techniques.

There is no cure for Usher syndrome or retinitis pigmentosa. But gene therapy clinical trials are underway for both conditions. Gene therapy improves vision at night and in dimmer light. It is already approved for one type of retinitis pigmentosa caused by the RPE65 gene. Ask your doctor about genetic testing. This tells you which genes cause your condition. Knowing this information may allow you to take part in clinical trials and seek an approved therapy in the future.

If you have any questions about your eyes or your vision, speak with your ophthalmologist. He or she is committed to protecting your sight.