Why Cannabis Causes Red Eyes and How to Alleviate It

Red eyes after using cannabis are a common issue many people experience. But why does this happen, and what can you do about it? Let's break it down in a straightforward way. Why Does Cannabis Cause Red Eyes? The main reason cannabis causes red eyes is due to THC, the compound in cannabis that makes you feel high. When you consume cannabis, THC lowers your blood pressure, causing your blood vessels and capillaries to expand. This includes the small blood vessels in your eyes, leading to increased blood flow and making them look red. Here’s How It Works:

1. THC and Blood Pressure: THC causes your blood pressure to drop, which makes your blood vessels expand. This is called vasodilation.
2. Eye Blood Vessels: The blood vessels in your eyes expand, letting more blood in and making your eyes look red.
3. Any Method: It doesn’t matter if you smoke, eat, or vape cannabis. If it contains THC, it can cause red eyes.

1. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water. Dehydration can make redness worse, so staying hydrated helps.
2. Use Eye Drops: Over-the-counter eye drops designed to reduce redness can work wonders. They help constrict the blood vessels in your eyes, reducing the redness.
3. Cold Compress: Applying a cold compress to your eyes can help reduce redness and puffiness. The cold causes the blood vessels to constrict.
4. Lower THC Strains: Opt for cannabis strains with lower THC levels. Strains higher in CBD are less likely to cause red eyes.
5. Moderation: Using less cannabis can reduce the severity of red eyes. If you’re prone to redness, try cutting back a bit.
6. Alternative Methods: If smoking causes too much redness, try edibles or tinctures. They can still cause redness, but it might be less intense.