How To Prevent And Treat Red Eyes From Consuming Or Smoking Cannabis
Red eyes are a common side effect from smoking cannabis due to THC lowering blood pressure. Here’s how to treat and prevent it.
One of the many stereotypes associated with cannabis smokers is that they all have red eyes with droopy eyelids. There is certainly a lot of truth to this association, and red eyes are indeed one of a few dead giveaways that make it remarkably apparent somebody has been smoking weed. Having red eyes isn’t harmful, but it can definitely be a nuisance to some.
Having glazed red eyes whilst smoking bongs and blunts isn’t usually any problem, and it often results in some humour. But it’s a different story when smoking before work or a meeting where you’d rather keep your herbal indulgence secret.
Some people need to medicate with cannabis to get through the day, whereas others find the herb helps to boost their performance and output. However, showing up to work or university with bright red eyes will at best draw unwanted attention, and at worst, trigger intense questioning. Luckily, there are various ways to prevent red eye from setting in, and numerous strategies to treat it when it already has.
PRACTICAL TIPS ON TREATING RED EYES
One way to combat red eyes is to trigger vasoconstriction, a fancy word for forcing your vascular system to close slightly and force blood away from the peripheries and into the core. This is the opposite of vasodilation, where the system opens up and blood flow to the peripheries increases.
STIMULANTS
Stimulants such as caffeine and theobromine can help induce vasoconstriction, meaning a fresh cup of coffee and a few squares of dark chocolate might help to reduce red eyes. This method will also boost your alertness and take the edge off the sedating effects of heavy indica strains.
COLD WATER
Cold water is also an excellent vasoconstrictor, forcing the body to push blood toward the core as part of a survival instinct to protect vital organs against the cold. This doesn’t necessarily mean enduring a cold shower or jumping into an ice bath, although this is extremely invigorating and fun. You can achieve similar effects just by splashing some cold water over your face.
Placing an ice pack across your eyes for a short period of time will also achieve the same effect. Cold cucumber slices work too, and will help to moisturize the area and bring about an overall feeling of freshness.
EYE DROPS
Of course, eye drops can be a helpful counter to red eyes. Formulas such as Open Your Eyes work to soothe and revitalise red eyes using natural products such as chamomile and eyebright.
ROSE WATER AND GREEN TEA
Soaking cotton balls in rose water and placing them on the eyes for around 15 minutes is reported to assist with cases of red eyes. The same practice can also be done with green tea bags soaked in cold water.
If none of these techniques work for you, you could always wear sunglasses. Of course, showing up to the office on a winter morning with sunglasses on will look a little off, but wearing them to outdoor gatherings and events will work in your favour.
WHAT CAUSES RED EYES?
The primary physiological event behind red eyes is caused by the psychoactive cannabinoid THC. THC works to reduce blood pressure, which goes on to cause vasodilation and the expansion of blood vessels and capillaries. This includes the dilation of the ocular capillaries of the eyes, which causes an increased blood flow to the area, exhibiting a red appearance as a result. Regardless of whether THC is smoked or eaten, it will still cause these effects.
CONTRIBUTING FACTORS
Smoking cannabis can cause red eyes in more ways than one. Aside from THC lowering blood pressure, simply getting smoke in the eyes during a session can cause a red appearance, as well as a stinging sensation. Dehydration can also contribute to red eyes, so be sure to pair your spliff with a glass of water or juice.
CAN YOU PREVENT IT?
We have explored ways to treat red eyes, but is it possible to prevent it from occurring in the first place?
Because THC is the main culprit when it comes to red eyes, opting for low-THC strains is a good way around it. Of course, you won’t feel the same high, but high-CBD strains are great for days when you don’t want red eyes, and will still help to induce feelings of relaxation and serenity.
Strains aside, the best form of prevention is timing and planning. If you plan on smoking before a meeting or work day, then be sure to do so well in advance to give your body time to recover and banish the red eyes.
