How to Get Rid of Red Eyes from Weed

If youre a cannabis enthusiast you may have experienced the infamous red eye effect after indulging in your favorite strain. While red eyes are a common side effect of marijuana use they can be uncomfortable and sometimes embarrassing especially if you need to interact with others who may not be aware of your cannabis consumption.

In this article well explore the causes of red eyes from weed and provide you with some effective methods to alleviate this symptom.

Chris Dorcey

Inheal Editor

Post date

April 20, 2024

Time to read

5 mins 31 secs

Key Takeaways

Red eyes from weed are caused by the dilation of blood vessels due to the presence of THC
Over-the-counter eye drops cold compresses and staying hydrated can help alleviate red eyes
Adjusting your environment choosing low-THC strains and practicing good eye hygiene can also help minimize redness
Consuming cannabis in moderation and using eye drops preemptively can help prevent red eyes
If you need to be in a professional or public setting after consuming cannabis plan accordingly to avoid any awkward situations

What Causes Red Eyes from Weed?

The primary reason behind red eyes after consuming cannabis is due to the presence of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) the main psychoactive compound in marijuana. THC lowers blood pressure which causes the blood vessels and capillaries to dilate including those in your eyes. This dilation increases blood flow to the eyes making them appear red or bloodshot.

Its important to note that red eyes are not necessarily an indication of being high. Some people may experience red eyes even with low doses of THC while others may consume large amounts without any noticeable redness. Factors such as individual physiology tolerance and the specific strain of cannabis can all play a role in the severity of red eyes.

Methods to Get Rid of Red Eyes from Weed

Eye Drops

One of the most popular and effective ways to combat red eyes from weed is by using over-the-counter eye drops. Look for drops that contain tetrahydrozoline or naphazoline which are vasoconstrictors that help shrink the blood vessels in your eyes reducing redness.

Some popular brands include Visine Clear Eyes and Rohto. Be sure to follow the instructions on the packaging and avoid overusing eye drops as this can lead to rebound redness.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water can help flush out toxins from your body and reduce inflammation in your eyes. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day and increase your intake if you feel dehydrated after consuming cannabis.

Cold Compress

Applying a cold compress or ice pack to your eyes can help constrict the blood vessels and reduce redness. Wrap a few ice cubes in a clean cloth or use a gel eye mask and apply it to your closed eyes for 10-15 minutes. Repeat as needed.

Adjust Your Environment

Harsh lighting and dry air can exacerbate red eyes. If possible dim the lights in your room or wear sunglasses to minimize light exposure. If youre in a dry environment consider using a humidifier to add moisture to the air which can help soothe irritated eyes.

Wait It Out

In most cases red eyes from weed will subside on their own within a few hours. If youre not in a rush to be somewhere simply wait it out and let your eyes return to their normal appearance naturally.

Choose Low-THC Strains

If you find that you are particularly prone to red eyes consider opting for cannabis strains with lower THC content. Strains high in cannabidiol (CBD) and low in THC may be less likely to cause severe red eyes.

Practice Good Eye Hygiene

Maintaining good eye hygiene can help prevent and alleviate red eyes. Be sure to remove any contact lenses before consuming cannabis and avoid rubbing your eyes as this can cause further irritation. If you wear makeup remove it before going to bed to prevent any debris from irritating your eyes overnight.

Prevention Tips

In addition to the methods mentioned above there are some preventive measures you can take to minimize the occurrence of red eyes when consuming cannabis:

Use Eye Drops Preemptively

If you know youll be consuming cannabis and want to avoid red eyes altogether consider using eye drops before your session. This can help constrict the blood vessels in advance reducing the likelihood of noticeable redness.

Consume in Moderation

The more cannabis you consume the higher the chances of experiencing red eyes. By consuming in moderation you can reduce the severity of this side effect.

Stay Mindful of Your Surroundings

If you need to be in a professional or public setting after consuming cannabis plan accordingly. Give yourself enough time for the redness to subside or have eye drops on hand to quickly alleviate the symptoms.

Final thoughts

Red eyes are a common side effect of cannabis use but they dont have to be a source of discomfort or embarrassment. By understanding the causes and employing the methods discussed in this article you can effectively manage and prevent red eyes from weed.

Remember to consume responsibly stay hydrated and practice good eye hygiene to keep your eyes healthy and clear. With a little preparation and care you can enjoy your cannabis experience without worrying about unwanted attention due to red eyes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can red eyes from weed cause permanent damage?

No red eyes from weed are temporary and do not cause any lasting damage to your eyes. The redness should subside within a few hours or with the use of eye drops.

Will eye drops for red eyes from weed harm my eyes?

When used as directed over-the-counter eye drops for red eyes are generally safe. However overusing them can lead to rebound redness or irritation. Always follow the instructions on the packaging.

Can consuming edibles cause red eyes?

Yes edibles that contain THC can still cause red eyes as the THC enters your bloodstream and causes the dilation of blood vessels. The onset of red eyes may be delayed compared to smoking or vaping.

Do all cannabis strains cause red eyes?

Not necessarily. Some strains particularly those with lower THC content may be less likely to cause severe red eyes. However individual reactions can vary.

Is there a way to permanently prevent red eyes from weed?

While there is no permanent solution to prevent red eyes from weed consuming in moderation using eye drops preemptively and choosing low-THC strains can help minimize the occurrence and severity of this side effect.

Disclaimer

The statements on this blog are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent any disease. FDA has not evaluated statements contained within the blog. Information on this website or in any materials or communications from Inheal is for educational/informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your healthcare provider before making any healthcare decisions, correct dosage or for guidance about a specific medical condition.

by Chris Dorcey

A connoisseur of cannabis creativity and true contemplation with more than 20 years of experience, Chris extracts deep thoughts from getting lightly baked and shares his wandering mind. He blends cuisine and cannabis culture into nutritious, delicious recipes and insights for other hemp lovers.