High eyes, more commonly described as red eyes, are a known side effect of cannabis use. This symptom can occur whether a person smokes cannabis, consumes THC edibles, or uses other marijuana products. If you’re looking for quick relief, over-the-counter lubricating eye drops and staying hydrated are two of the fastest ways to help reduce redness.
This page explains why weed makes your eyes red, the symptoms to look for, and effective ways to reduce or prevent it. It also covers when red eyes might indicate something more serious and how to seek professional support if needed.High Eyes
Red eyes are a clear indicator of cannabis usage. Also known as high eyes, weed eyes, and marijuana eyes, this symptom can occur regardless of whether a person smokes cannabis or consumes THC via edibles or another method. Although they are not fundamentally dangerous, cannabis’s impact on the eyes can be unpleasant and a source of embarrassment and self-consciousness. If you’re concerned about having stoner eyes or seeing them in someone close to you, here’s some insight into what causes them and how to get rid of high eyes.What Are High Eyes?
High person eyes or stoned eyes are terms used to describe the look of an individual’s eyes following the use of specific substances, especially marijuana. Red, bloodshot eyes may be a clear indication of recent cannabis consumption, regardless of whether a person is using marijuana recreationally or taking prescribed medical marijuana with professional guidance. The bloodshot appearance occurs due to the dilation of blood vessels in the eyes, causing a reddish hue. Additionally, the eyelids can seem droopy or heavy, giving the impression that the individual is relaxed or tired. Generally, eye redness from cannabis use reaches its peak about 30 minutes after vaping or smoking marijuana. This redness can persist for up to four to six hours. However, the exact duration varies based on the person and the quantity of THC used.Why Do Eyes Get Red When High?
Although some individuals might think that smoking marijuana leads to redness in the eyes because of the irritation caused by the smoke, this isn’t true. Your eyes get red when high because THC lowers blood pressure and dilates the tiny blood vessels in your eyes, increasing blood flow and making them appear red. High eyes are the result of the vascular effects of cannabis. The primary component in most cannabis is known as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). This is the substance responsible for its psychoactive effects. However, THC doesn’t just make you feel “stoned”. When THC binds to cannabinoid receptors in the eyes, it dilates the blood vessels and capillaries (tiny blood vessels) present in the eyes when you’re high, making them more prominent. The reason cannabis causes these vessels to enlarge is that the THC in cannabis reduces blood pressure once it enters the bloodstream [1]. In other words, it expands the blood vessels in your body, allowing increased volumes of blood to flow more freely. The level of redness depends on the THC levels in the marijuana product and personal sensitivity. Some individuals may show significant redness with minimal THC usage, while others might display only a slight effect despite taking large amounts [2].Why Can’t I See Properly When High?
As discussed, lowered intraocular pressure (eye pressure) that causes red eyes is a common side effect of marijuana use. This affects the ability of the eyes to control the light entering them, which results in blurry vision, dry eyes, and other issues that may adversely affect vision. Moreover, the prolonged use of marijuana can increase a person’s risk of experiencing long-term negative impacts on their eye health, including the development of ocular diseases, photosensitivity, vision impairment, and others [3].Do Your Eyes Hurt After Being High?
No, a high person’s eyes generally don’t hurt. Although red eyes can impact vision, ocular pressure, and an individual’s eye blood vessels, red eyes themselves do not typically cause pain. However, symptoms associated with red eyes due to marijuana use, such as dryness, may cause irritation or mild discomfort, but these symptoms can be easily managed.Why Do Eyes Get Shiny When High?
Eyes can appear shiny or glassy when high because substances like alcohol or cannabis affect the central nervous system, reducing its ability to regulate normal functions such as blinking. Besides redness in the eyes and blurry vision, this glossy look can occur after heavy use of these substances. In some cases, shiny or glassy eyes may also be a defensive response to irritants caused by drug use. Intoxication can sometimes make the eyes seem as though they have lost their natural luster. During recovery from drug use, the eyes may appear still, or devoid of life. Some individuals may stare blankly or have completely unfocused eyes, which can further emphasize the shiny appearance.What Happens to Eyelids When High?
When you’re high, THC can affect the muscles and tissues of the eyelids, sometimes causing tremors, redness, or swelling. Besides the eyes, the eyelids are also influenced by THC present in the body. The most prevalent sign of cannabis use on the eyelids is eyelid tremors, although redness and swelling are frequently observed as well. Eyelid drooping, or ptosis, has also been observed in marijuana users, although the exact mechanisms are incompletely understood.Eyes on Drugs
Besides marijuana, other drugs can also impact a person’s eyes and vision in different ways. This largely depends on how these drugs interact with the body, including their effects on blood vessels, tear production, and the nervous system.What Other Drugs Can Cause Stoned Eyes?
Red eyes can also be caused by the following substances:- Marijuana
- Cocaine
- Alcohol
- Benzodiazepines
Do Edibles Make Your Eyes Red?
Edibles contain THC, which for many users can cause red eyes. THC is known to cause eye redness, elevated heart rate, and alterations in blood circulation due to its effects on bodily systems. So, whether it’s from vaping or eating edibles, any form of marijuana can still affect your eyes.What Causes Pupils to Change Size?
Pupils adjust their size to regulate the amount of light entering the eye’s receptors. However, individuals using drugs — including THC — may develop dilated, constricted, or pinpoint pupils because their eyes may fail to react properly to variations in light exposure. This is because drugs influence the nervous system, including ocular receptors, and can interfere with the body’s automatic responses. As a result, pupil size may remain either dilated or constricted regardless of lighting conditions. Prolonged dilation can also make the eyes more sensitive to light.How Long Do Eyes Stay Dilated After Drug Use?
The duration of eye dilation after drug use depends on the specific drug consumed and the time it stays in an individual’s system. The impact of drugs on an individual’s eyes can last as long as the substance remains in their system. For some individuals, this period can last a few hours, whereas those using substances such as alcohol might still show signs of alcohol use in their eyes for as long as 24 hours.Why Can I See Better When High?
Some individuals claim that their vision improves while they are intoxicated. However, this is just an effect of their altered perception as a result of being ‘high’. Any form of drug intoxication leads to a negative impact on eyesight in the long run and cannot make a person see more clearly.Red Eyes from Weed
In this section, we’ll discuss in detail the effects of weed on the eyes.Why Does Weed Make Your Eyes Red?
Using marijuana causes red eyes because of the THC, which affects an individual’s blood pressure and heart rate. By dilating blood vessels and enhancing blood circulation, the body struggles to regulate the volume of blood supplied to the eyes, which makes the blood capillaries more prominent. This results in redness in the eyes. Moreover, some individuals might observe that their eyes become red even if they don’t smoke marijuana but consume it through other means, like edibles. This indicates that it’s not solely the smoke responsible for red eyes, but instead how THC interacts with the body.Can Pupil Size Show if Someone Is High on Weed?
Yes, the size of pupils can be a sign that someone has consumed marijuana, and can also indicate the use of other substances. Most often, red eyes and the size of pupils are the initial indicators that family and friends observe in an individual who is using drugs.How Long Does Marijuana Affect Your Eyes?
Cannabis can have quite noticeable effects on a person’s eyes right after consumption and while the individual remains under its influence. However, these signs often disappear within a day without any long-lasting effects. Typically, the impact of marijuana on the eyes goes away after approximately three to four hours.Does Cannabis Have Any Lasting Effect on the Eyes?
The prolonged use of marijuana may lead to long-term effects on an individual’s vision. The reduction in visual processing, slowed contrast sensitivity, and reduced motion perception are all documented long-term effects of cannabis use. Moreover, the long-term use of cannabis can also impact an individual’s eye health by damaging the optic nerve. Nonetheless, additional research is required to fully understand the impact of prolonged cannabis use on eye health.Can Marijuana Cause Macular Degeneration?
Macular degeneration is one of the major causes of blindness, particularly among elderly individuals. Nonetheless, the use of marijuana might lead to macular degeneration in young adult users [4]. This is because marijuana has been observed to accelerate the decline of blood vessels in the eyes, potentially leading to the earlier onset of macular degeneration compared to non-users.How to Get Rid of Stoned Eyes Fast
Dealing with or hiding stoned and bloodshot eyes after consuming marijuana can be troublesome, particularly when you’re in public or among family and friends. That said, there are a few methods to reduce the redness and help your eyes return to normal.- Using a cold compress can help constrict blood vessels in your eyes, lessening redness. Simply dip a clean washcloth in cold water, squeeze it out, and place it over your closed eyes for 10 minutes.
- Keep away from smoky or dusty settings, as they can intensify redness and irritation.
- If you frequently get red eyes after using marijuana, try opting for products with lower THC levels to minimize the effect. You might also see this as an opportunity to take a break from marijuana usage or stop using altogether, which would prevent the problem entirely.
- Select appropriate eye drops formulated for alleviating redness. They usually include components such as tetrahydrozoline that narrow blood vessels in your eyes and lessen redness.
- Although eye drops are beneficial, frequent use can lead to your eyes relying on them. Follow the guidelines on the package and use them in moderation.
- If you use contact lenses, make sure the eye drops you select are designed specifically for use with contacts.
How Long Does It Take for Red Eyes to Go Away After Being High?
The time it takes for red eyes to resolve can vary based on the specific drug used, the potency of the drug strain, and additional health factors like hydration levels. Although many signs of red eye may disappear in a few hours, some can take longer to resolve, and the drug might still be affecting your brain and bodyHow to Get Rid of Stoned Eyes Fast Without Eyedrops
If you don’t have eye drops or simply don’t want to use them, there are alternative methods to reduce eye redness naturally:- Drinking plenty of water can aid your body in recovering more quickly. Water helps eliminate THC from the body and can decrease eye redness while enhancing comfort.
- Avoid consuming caffeinated or sugary beverages, as they may lead to dehydration and worsen the problem.
- Closing and resting your eyes can help reduce discomfort. This will help the eyes recover from fatigue or dehydration.
- Avoid intense lighting since this will make the redness and irritation worse. Remain in a dimly lit space as your eyes heal.
- Place metal spoons in the fridge for 5 minutes. After chilling, rest the rounded sides on your closed eyes. Just like a cold compress, this will help lower eye temperature and aid in narrowing blood vessels to minimize redness.
- Consume foods rich in vitamin C. Vitamin C supports healthy blood vessels. Oranges, strawberries, or bell peppers are all good sources of Vitamin C and can help maintain overall eye health and lessen redness gradually.
How to Get Rid of Stoner Eye Bags
Applying a cold compress and resting can help reduce stoner eye bags. The cool temperature narrows blood vessels and decreases inflammation, making the puffiness under the eyes less apparent. In addition, keeping your head slightly elevated with pillows while sleeping can prevent fluid from accumulating beneath the eyes. You can also gently massage the area under the eyes to stimulate circulation and help drain excess fluid, further reducing puffiness.How Do You Get Rid of High, Puffy Eyes?
Swollen eyes are a frequent sign of drug and marijuana consumption, though it is manageable. Using a cold compress, ensuring adequate sleep, and avoiding further drug use are essential for reducing eye puffiness. However, if symptoms remain, you can always arrange an appointment with an eye doctor for a thorough examination to better understand how drug use might be impacting your eyesight and eye health.FAQs
Why Does Weed Make Your Eyes Water?
Using weed can make your eyes water for several reasons. Smoke or vapor can irritate the eyes, triggering extra tear production, while THC may also interact with receptors that regulate tearing [5]. In some cases, cannabis causes dry eyes, prompting the body to overcompensate with excessive tearing.Why Do My Eyes Not Get Red When I Smoke?
Not everyone gets red or high eyes when using marijuana. Though it is a frequent side effect, personal responses differ based on aspects such as tolerance, genetics, cannabis strain, and general health. Some people build a tolerance to the effects of THC with consistent use and some inherently have reduced sensitivity in their eye blood vessels.What Are Signs That Someone Is High?
Some common signs that a person is high include enlarged pupils, bloodshot or glassy eyes, loss of coordination, aggressive behavior, trembling, and paranoia.Why Can’t I See When I’m High?
Redness, dryness, and a glassy appearance, often paired with dilated or constricted pupils, can make it harder to see when you’re high.Do Eye Drops Kill Your High?
No, eye drops cannot kill the effects that THC or other drugs have on your brain. However, they can help reduce eye-related problems associated with being high.Why Do My Eyes Feel Weird When I’m High?
THC leads to vasodilation in the eyes, or the expansion of blood vessels, resulting in enhanced blood flow that can cause the eyes to look red and bloodshot. Moreover, THC may hinder the brain’s ability to process visual information, which could result in a sensation of eye strain and changed spatial awareness.How Do You Get Rid of High Eyes Naturally?
You can get rid of high eyes naturally by using a cold compress, avoiding intense light, allowing them to rest, and avoiding prolonged drug use.Can Eye Doctors Tell If You Smoke Weed?
If you’ve smoked marijuana shortly before an eye exam, your eye doctor might observe indicators like redness, dryness, or slightly enlarged pupils. However, these signs wouldn’t definitively suggest marijuana use. Eye specialists are educated to concentrate on the well-being of your eyes instead of forming opinions about lifestyle choices or substance use.Get Help for Drug Addiction at California Detox
If you or someone you care about needs support in overcoming addiction, contact California Detox today. We address a wide variety of addictions at our upscale rehabilitation center in Laguna Beach, California. Our personalized inpatient treatment approach provides a safe, structured environment where you can focus entirely on recovery without the distractions of everyday responsibilities. We understand that each addiction is different, which is why all our treatment plans are tailored to meet each patient’s specific needs. California Detox offers:- Motivational therapies
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