Have you ever noticed your eyes appear red and bloodshot following cannabis consumption? Or have you noticed “stoned eyes” or “high eyes” repeatedly in someone you love? If someone is using cannabis, weed eyes-red eyes – are a common and recognizable side effect.
While recreational cannabis use is legal in many states and countries today, noticing this common side effect in someone you love (or yourself) can be concerning. So, what should you know? Why do red eyes occur with cannabis use? This article explores why this happens and when it’s a cause for concern.
Causes of Red Eyes from Cannabis Use
Many mistakenly assume that the redness of “high eyes” occurs due to the smoke from a marijuana joint or device. But, surprisingly, this is often not what’s happening. Even those who consume edibles can experience red eyes. So, what’s going on?
According to various research, this redness comes down to cannabis’s vascular effects. The active ingredient in most marijuana is called tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). This is the compound that gives way to its psychoactive effects. However, it doesn’t just cause you to feel “high.” When THC attaches to cannabinoid receptors in the eyes, they dilate (or widen) the blood vessels and capillaries. This leads to increased blood flow and, consequently, redness of the eyes.
As mentioned above, this effect happens no matter the method of consumption—red eyes can happen when you smoke, vape, or eat marijuana products.
Duration of Red Eyes
Red eyes are a common and noticeable sign of marijuana use, which can feel embarrassing, especially if it’s your first time experiencing this effect. But rest assured, it doesn’t last forever.
Typically, redness peaks about 30 minutes after vaping or smoking, lasting up to four to six hours. The exact time depends on the individual and the amount of THC consumed. And luckily, there are a few ways to reduce this side effect a bit quicker.
Effective Methods to Alleviate Red Eyes Quickly
For many, the redness of high eyes isn’t just an aesthetic problem. Many people find their eyes become dry as well. This is thought to be from the binding of THC to cannabinoid receptors in the tear glands of the eye – and, inevitably, this can make the redness in your eyes worse. So, here are a few ways you can reduce stoned eyes.
Over-the-Counter Eye Drops
Over-the-counter eye drops have the opposite effect of THC. Instead of increasing blood flow to the eyes, leading to increasing redness, eye drops constrict the blood vessels. As a result, this can significantly decrease red eyes caused by cannabis consumption.
However, even though these are available over the counter, following the product instructions is always essential. This means avoiding overuse of the drops if the recommended dosage doesn’t help significantly reduce your red eyes. Consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or experience adverse effects.
Hydration
The body is 60% water. Water helps our body flush out excess compounds and waste, so we’re often told to stay hydrated when sick. Yet, maintaining proper hydration can also help alleviate dry eyes and reduce redness associated with cannabis consumption. It’s thought drinking more water can help flush out the THC from your system.
At the same time, balance is key. Surprisingly, it’s possible to overdo it with water consumption. When consumed in excess, water intoxication can occur and can be fatal. While this isn’t meant to scare you, use common sense when maintaining hydration. It’s not recommended to chug back liters of water at any time!
Cold Compress
Beyond eye drops and hydration, there’s another effortless way to combat red eyes. Applying a cold compress or chilled items, like cucumber slices, over your eyelids for five to 10 minutes can reduce redness and puffiness. This works by decreasing the dilation of the blood vessels.
Reducing or Avoiding Cannabis Use
Inevitably, the easiest way to avoid and prevent red eyes is by reducing or eliminating cannabis use. It may also help to select marijuana strains with lower THC content since this may lessen the severity of red eyes.
Preventive Measures
If you frequently experience red and dry eyes from cannabis consumption, it can help to be prepared. For instance, you may want to consider using eye drops before cannabis use or immediately after. As mentioned above, selecting cannabis products with lower THC levels may also help you thwart this side effect.
When to Seek Medical Attention
If your red eyes persist beyond six to eight hours after cannabis use, there may be more going on. For example, this could indicate an infection requiring consultation with a healthcare provider. If pain accompanies redness, this could also be a cause for concern.
While cannabis use was once considered helpful for eye conditions like glaucoma, this is no longer the case. Although eye redness itself is generally harmless (unless it persists or is accompanied by pain or irritation), frequent cannabis use may affect your visual acuity. Recent research indicates that cannabis slows the activity of retinal ganglion cells, potentially impacting how quickly your eyes perceive and process visual information. While more research is needed, it’s essential to consider the potentially harmful effects of using cannabis before partaking.
How United Recovery Project Can Help
At United Recovery Project, our team is committed to helping individuals overcome substance abuse and addiction. We further aim to provide accurate and reliable information for individuals seeking information and support related to substance use and associated health concerns.
If you’re concerned about your personal use or a loved one’s use of marijuana, reach out to one of our team members today. Our consults are 100% confidential, and we can answer any questions you have about cannabis use and its effects. Call us now at 888-960-5121 for more information or assistance, or use our online form. If you’re still unsure, we encourage you to explore our treatment programs or learn more about our facilities.
