Red eyes are a common sign of cannabis use. Whether you’ve smoked it or consumed THC through edibles, you might notice redness in your eyes. Though it’s not harmful, it can feel uncomfortable and make you feel self-conscious. Here’s why it happens and how you can reduce or avoid red eyes after using cannabis. Find more info about weed delivery mississauga
Why Does Cannabis Cause Red Eyes?
Cannabis causes red eyes due to THC, the active compound in cannabis, which lowers your blood pressure. This makes the blood vessels in your eyes dilate, causing them to appear more noticeable. Contrary to what some might think, it’s not the smoke that irritates your eyes but rather the effect of THC itself, whether consumed by smoking or in other forms like edibles.
While red eyes aren’t dangerous, they can be uncomfortable or embarrassing.
How to Avoid Red Eyes
Cannabis contains THC and CBD, two key compounds. THC is responsible for the red-eye effect. If you want to avoid this, you can opt for cannabis strains that are lower in THC and higher in CBD. These strains produce a milder high and might not cause as much redness. However, if you use cannabis for medical reasons, consult your doctor before switching strains.
Home Remedies for Red Eyes
If your eyes turn red after consuming cannabis, you can try these remedies to reduce the redness faster:
- Cold Compress: Applying a cold compress over your eyes can help reduce redness. The cold constricts blood vessels, making them less visible. Soak a clean cloth in cold water and apply it to your eyes for 5-10 minutes.
- Artificial Tears: Over-the-counter eye drops, such as Rohto or Visine, can relieve red eyes. These drops contain ingredients that constrict blood vessels, reducing the redness. They also help with dryness and irritation.
- Tinted Contacts or Sunglasses: If you need a quick fix, wearing sunglasses or tinted contacts can help hide red eyes. Tinted contacts, which cover the whites of your eyes, can be an option if you’ll be indoors where sunglasses might seem odd.
Can Cannabis Affect Eye Health?
While cannabis was once thought to help with eye conditions like glaucoma, recent studies suggest long-term use could harm your eyes. Over time, cannabis can affect how quickly your eyes process visual information. Regular users should see an eye doctor annually to ensure their vision remains healthy.
Conclusion
Red eyes from cannabis are a common side effect caused by THC. While not dangerous, they can be annoying. You can reduce redness by choosing low-THC cannabis, using home remedies like eye drops or cold compresses, or simply covering your eyes with sunglasses or contacts. However, long-term cannabis use may affect eye health, so regular eye checkups are recommended.