Living in Las Vegas means facing dry air, desert winds, and high temperatures, all of which can take a toll on your eyes. If you’ve noticed your eyes feeling gritty, irritated, or tired, especially after a day spent outdoors or in front of a screen, you might be experiencing Dry Eye Syndrome. At Optiluxe Optometry, we’re here to to help you find lasting relief and protect your vision.
 

What Is Dry Eye Syndrome?

Dry Eye Syndrome, also known as dry eye disease, occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. Tears are essential for maintaining the health of the eye’s surface and providing clear vision. When this delicate balance is disrupted, it can lead to inflammation, discomfort, and long-term damage if left untreated.
 

Common Causes of Dry Eyes

Dry Eye Syndrome can have many underlying causes. Some of the most common include:
 

• Aging: Tear production tends to decline with age, making dry eyes more common in older adults.
• Environmental factors: Wind, smoke, dry climates, and air conditioning can increase tear evaporation.
• Prolonged screen time: Reduced blinking while using digital devices can lead to dryness.
• Contact lens wear: Long-term wear can disrupt the tear film and contribute to discomfort.
• Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD): When the oil-producing glands in the eyelids become blocked or inflamed, the tear film becomes unstable and evaporates too quickly.
• Blepharitis: Chronic inflammation of the eyelids can interfere with the proper functioning of tear glands and lead to persistent dryness and irritation.
• Medical conditions: Autoimmune diseases like Sjögren’s syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, or thyroid disorders can interfere with tear production.
• Medications: Antihistamines, decongestants, antidepressants, and certain blood pressure medications may cause dryness as a side effect.

Recognizing the Symptoms

Dry Eye Syndrome can present in a variety of ways. Some of the most commonly reported symptoms include:
 

• A stinging, burning, or scratchy sensation
• Redness or irritation
• Blurry vision, especially after reading or using screens
• A feeling of something being "in your eye"
• Sensitivity to light
• Excessive tearing
• Discomfort when wearing contact lenses

Treatment Options for Dry Eye Syndrome

At Optiluxe Optometry, we customize your dry eye treatment plan based on the underlying cause and severity of your symptoms. By identifying the specific factors contributing to your discomfort, we can recommend the most effective solutions for lasting relief.
 

For many patients, artificial tears provide a simple yet effective way to relieve mild dryness. These over-the-counter lubricating drops help replenish moisture and soothe irritated eyes. In more persistent cases, we may prescribe medications designed to reduce inflammation and stimulate the body’s natural tear production.
 

When tear drainage is contributing to the problem, punctal plugs may be recommended. These tiny inserts are placed in the tear ducts to help retain natural tears on the surface of the eye, improving comfort and moisture levels.
 

Eyelid hygiene is also a critical part of managing dry eye, especially when inflammation or debris along the eyelid margins contributes to symptoms. We may recommend daily cleansing routines or in-office treatments to help keep the eyelid area clean, reduce bacterial buildup, and support healthy meibomian gland function.
 

Finally, lifestyle modifications can also make a significant difference. We may suggest strategies like taking regular breaks from screens, using a humidifier indoors, and shielding your eyes from wind and dry air to help manage symptoms and prevent flare-ups.
 

Find Dry Eye Relief at Optiluxe Optometry

Dry Eye Syndrome is a chronic but manageable condition. Left untreated, it can interfere with your quality of life and damage your eye health over time. With the right diagnosis and a personalized treatment approach, you can find long-lasting relief.
 

If you're experiencing symptoms of dry eyes, schedule a consultation at Optiluxe Optometry to find the right treatment for your needs. Visit our office in Las Vegas, Nevada, or call (702) 466-1010 to book an appointment today.