'Bumping' into objects could be first sign of genetic eye condition retinitis pigmentosa

How do people get retinitis pigmentosa?

The RNIB explains: “From your parents or other relatives, as a result of a mutation in one of the genes involved in creating a healthy retina.

“There are many forms of inherited retinal dystrophy (IRDs), retinitis pigmentosa is the most common of which.

“They don’t all share the same characteristics but most forms of these inherited conditions affect night vision and peripheral vision first, though some can affect central vision first.

“Peripheral vision is what helps us see things to the side of us and helps to detect movement and avoid obstacles.