Why does weed give you red eye?

Red eyes can be linked to body chemistry and the quality and quantity of the weed you have smoked. To body chemistry, but does it also depend on the amount or quality of the cannabis consumed?

Once it is in your system, THC works to lower blood pressure. This, in turn, causes blood vessels and capillaries to dilate, increasing blood flow to the eyes and reducing levels of intraocular pressure. This increase in blood flow also creates visible redness.

 Glaucoma is an eye condition where the pressure in the eye increases. Because of this effect, cannabis has been touted as a possible treatment for some sufferers of Glaucoma. Left untreated long-term Glaucoma can be seriously detrimental to eyesight. 

The cause for the reddening of the eyes after smoking cannabis is related to why the plant is famous as a treatment for glaucoma. 

Contrary to popular belief, it is not the smoke that makes your eyes red. It is THC. This is why you can experience Red eyes regardless of how you ingest cannabis.

However, it is also possible to be allergic to cannabis or smoke, which can induce eye redness. It is unlikely that you would only be allergic to cannabis smoke. It is generally the case that you would be allergic to all types of smoke, including tobacco and incense.

How to Prevent Red Eye.

Suffering with red eyes from cannabis may be harmless, but it is not ideal, especially if you do not wish people to know what you have been up to. Whilst it is difficult to stop it from happening altogether, here are a few tips on how to minimise eye redness. 

• Eye drops. You can now buy specially formulated products to tackle and reduce eye redness.
• Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water can help alleviate dryness throughout your body and keep your eyes healthy.
• Leave them be. Try and remember that ultimately, red eyes are not harmful to your health. If you are worried about the unwanted attention they may bring, make sure you have sunglasses near. Alternatively, reserve your smoke sessions for times when you can relax in the privacy of your own or a friend's home.