Southern Nevada sunshine can be intense, especially in Las Vegas where bright UV exposure reflects off pavement, water, sand, and car windshields. While many people remember sunscreen for their skin, the eyes need protection too. Photokeratitis, sometimes called a "sunburned eye," happens when the clear front surface of the eye is exposed to too much ultraviolet light.
 

What Is Photokeratitis?

Photokeratitis is an irritation or burn of the cornea caused by UV exposure. It can happen after spending time outdoors without proper sunglasses, especially during long days at the pool, on the lake, hiking, golfing, or driving across Southern Nevada.

Symptoms often appear several hours after sun exposure, which can make it easy to overlook the cause at first. While photokeratitis is usually temporary, it can be painful and should be taken seriously.
 

Common Photokeratitis Symptoms

If your eyes feel irritated after a bright day outside in Las Vegas, photokeratitis may be the reason. Symptoms can affect one or both eyes and may include:

• Eye pain, burning, or a gritty feeling
• Redness and watering
• Light sensitivity
• Blurry vision
• Swollen eyelids
• Headache or discomfort when opening the eyes

These symptoms can feel similar to dry eye, allergies, or an eye infection, which is why an eye exam is important if discomfort does not improve or if vision changes are present.
 

How To Recover From A Sunburned Eye

The first step is to get out of the sun and rest your eyes. Avoid rubbing your eyes, since this can make irritation worse. If you wear contact lenses, remove them and switch to glasses until your eyes feel normal again or until our optometrist tells you it is safe to resume lens wear.

Cool compresses may help ease discomfort, and artificial tears can support moisture while the surface of the eye heals. Over-the-counter pain relief may also help, but avoid using any medicated eye drops unless they have been recommended by an eye care professional.

Most mild cases improve within 24 to 48 hours. However, severe pain, ongoing light sensitivity, discharge, or blurry vision should be checked promptly.
 

When To See An Eye Doctor In Las Vegas

Because Southern Nevada has strong year-round sun exposure, recurring eye irritation after outdoor activity should not be ignored. Photokeratitis can usually heal, but repeated UV exposure may increase the risk of long-term eye problems, including cataracts and other damage.

At our Las Vegas eye care centers, we can evaluate the surface of your eyes, rule out infection or injury, and recommend the right treatment for your symptoms. We can also help you choose UV-blocking sunglasses or prescription sunwear for better protection during everyday activities.

For eye discomfort, light sensitivity, or photokeratitis symptoms in Southern Nevada, contact Kopolow & Girisgen Doctors of Optometry in Las Vegas, NV by calling (702) 452-2020.