High Eyes: Causes, Symptoms, & How to Get Rid of It

“High eyes” is a common term for when the eyes appear red, swollen, or tired. This condition can be triggered by smoking, allergies, lack of rest, dehydration, or long hours spent in front of screens. While usually harmless, it can cause discomfort and affect daily activities. 

This article details the causes of high eye redness, its symptoms, the impact of other drugs on eye appearance, and practical strategies to reduce redness and discomfort. 

High Eyes

“High eyes” is a condition where the eyes appear red, puffy, or irritated. It happens when the small blood vessels on the surface of the eyes expand. Common triggers include smoking, allergies, fatigue, dehydration, and extended screen use [1].

This condition is also known as tired eyes, bloodshot eyes, or red eyes. Though not typically a serious medical concern, it can be socially uncomfortable or disruptive. In most cases, adequate rest, hydration, and soothing eye drops are effective remedies.

What Are High Eyes?

“High eyes” refers to the red, glassy, or irritated appearance of the eyes, often associated with smoking cannabis, lack of sleep, allergies, or dryness. This can be accompanied by puffiness, watering, or a heavy feeling in the eyelids. While the condition is usually temporary, it can create the impression that you are unwell or indicate irritation that requires simple treatment.

Why Do Eyes Get Red When High?

One of the most common signs of being high on cannabis is red or bloodshot eyes. This occurs due to changes in blood flow and potential irritation. The redness itself is not dangerous, but it can be uncomfortable and make a person appear fatigued.

Key reasons include:

• Expansion of the tiny blood vessels in the eyes.

• A drop in overall blood pressure caused by cannabis compounds like THC.

• Direct irritation from smoke exposure.

• Dryness or dehydration can worsen the redness.

Why Can’t I See Properly When High?

It is common to experience vision changes while high because cannabis affects both the eyes and the brain’s ability to process visual signals [2]. This can result in temporary vision impairment, light sensitivity, or difficulty focusing. Some people may also have trouble judging distances or seeing clearly in bright or dim light. These effects are temporary, but it is crucial to avoid driving or operating machinery until your vision returns to normal.

Do Your Eyes Hurt After Being High?

Yes, your eyes can feel sore after getting high. Smoke is a direct irritant that can make the eyes feel itchy or watery, contributing to discomfort. However, any pain is generally mild and short-lived.

Applying lubricating eye drops, drinking plenty of water, and resting your eyes can provide relief. If the pain persists, it is best to consult a doctor to rule out other possible causes.

Why Do Eyes Get Shiny When High?

When high, eyes can appear shiny or glassy because cannabis alters moisture levels and blood flow [3]. The tear glands may become more active, creating a wet or glassy look. At the same time, changes in the eye’s blood vessels contribute to this glossy appearance. Though harmless, shiny eyes can be a noticeable sign of use. Staying hydrated and using eye drops can help reduce this effect.

What Happens To Eyelids When High?

The eyelids can become heavy and droopy, creating a sleepy appearance. This occurs because cannabis relaxes muscles and slows down bodily responses. Sometimes, slight puffiness or swelling can also be seen around the eyelids due to changes in blood flow. These effects are temporary, but they can make the eyes look tired or less alert until the high wears off.

Eyes on Drugs

Many drugs can strongly affect the way the eyes look and function. Certain substances change pupil size, cause redness, or make the eyes appear glassy and unfocused [4]. Some drugs may even lead to blurred vision, dryness, or unusual eye movements. These changes are often temporary but can signal the body’s reaction to a substance. In some cases, repeated use may contribute to long-term eye health issues.

Common effects include:

• Red or bloodshot eyes

• A glassy or shiny appearance

• Enlarged or constricted pupils

• Droopy eyelids or a tired look

• Blurred or hazy vision

What Other Drugs Can Cause Stoned Eyes?

Besides cannabis, many other drugs can cause the eyes to look “stoned.” Alcohol often causes redness and a fatigued appearance. Opioids and sedatives can lead to droopy or heavy eyelids. Stimulants, such as cocaine, can change pupil size, altering the eyes’ appearance. Certain prescription medications, like antihistamines, can also make the eyes appear glassy and dry.

Do Edibles Make Your Eyes Red?

Yes, edibles can make your eyes red, just like smoking cannabis. The THC in edibles lowers blood pressure, causing the tiny blood vessels in the eyes to expand [5]. This expansion leads to the classic red or bloodshot look. Because edibles take longer to metabolize, the redness may last for several hours. While not harmful, red eyes can feel uncomfortable. Using lubricating drops and staying hydrated can help.

What Causes Pupils To Change Size?

Pupil size changes naturally in response to light, emotions, and certain substances. Pupil size is controlled by two muscles in the iris: one that constricts the pupil (sphincter) and one that widens it (dilator) [6].

Drugs, stress, or excitement can affect these muscles, resulting in abnormally large or small pupils. Certain medical conditions affecting the eyes or nervous system can also cause changes in pupil size. These changes are usually temporary but can sometimes indicate underlying health conditions.

How Long Do Eyes Stay Dilated After Drug Use?

The duration of pupil dilation depends on the type and amount of drug used, but it often lasts for several hours. Stimulants like cocaine and amphetamines tend to cause longer-lasting dilation, while the effect from cannabis or opioids is generally milder and more brief.

In most cases, the pupils will return to their standard size once the drug’s effects wear off. Dilation that lasts an unusually long time could be a sign of an ocular or neurological issue that requires medical attention.

Why Can I See Better When High?

Some individuals report a perception of clearer or sharper vision while high. This is because certain substances can temporarily change how the brain and eyes process visual information. Cannabis, for example, might enhance contrast sensitivity for some users. However, these effects are subjective, temporary, and do not improve the physical health of the eyes.

This perceived enhancement may be due to:

• Heightened sensitivity to contrast, color, or light.

• A temporary shift in focus or depth perception.

• Changes in brain-eye communication that make visual details seem more prominent.

• A reduced blink rate can briefly make images appear steadier.

Red Eyes from Weed

Red eyes are a hallmark effect of using cannabis. The primary cause is THC, which lowers blood pressure and expands blood vessels in the eyes, creating a bloodshot look. Cannabis can also cause other effects, such as eyelid tremors and ptosis (drooping), which contribute to a heavy-lidded or tired appearance [7].

Side effects may also include dry, itchy, or glassy eyes. These changes are temporary and not harmful, but they are a visible sign of cannabis use. Staying hydrated and using lubricating eye drops can help alleviate some of the redness and irritation.

Why Does Weed Make Your Eyes Red?

Cannabis makes your eyes red because its main active ingredient, THC, lowers your overall blood pressure. This causes the small blood vessels and capillaries in your eyes to dilate, or widen. Increased blood flow through these widened vessels is what creates the noticeable redness. Other factors that can worsen redness include dryness, irritation from smoke, and a reduced blink rate.

Can Pupil Size Show if Someone Is High on Weed?

Yes, pupil size can sometimes be an indicator of cannabis use, but it is not a definitive sign. Cannabis typically causes a mild relaxation or slight enlargement of the pupils.

Key points to consider:

• Cannabis causes less dramatic changes to pupil size compared to stimulants like cocaine.

• Many factors, including lighting, emotions, and other drugs, influence pupil size.

• Pupil size alone should not be used to determine if someone is intoxicated.

• Other signs, like red eyes or slowed movement, provide more substantial indications.

How Long Does Marijuana Affect Your Eyes?

The effects of cannabis on the eyes typically last for a few hours, depending on the dose, method of use, and individual metabolism. Redness, dryness, and a glassy appearance usually develop within minutes of smoking and can persist for 2 to 6 hours. When cannabis is consumed as an edible, these effects may last longer because THC is absorbed more slowly.

Does Cannabis Have Any Lasting Effects on the Eyes?

For most users, cannabis does not have lasting effects on the eyes. Temporary changes like redness, dryness, or slight pupil dilation usually disappear once the drug wears off. However, chronic or heavy use may contribute to ongoing eye irritation or worsen existing conditions, so it is important to monitor your eye health over time.

Can Marijuana Cause Macular Degeneration?

No, there is no scientific evidence to suggest that marijuana directly causes macular degeneration. While some early research has explored whether cannabis has any protective qualities for eye health, the results are far from conclusive.

Things to know:

• Marijuana and macular degeneration: There is no proven causal link.

• Potential protective effects: Some studies have suggested potential benefits, but research is limited.

• Irritation from smoking: Smoke from any source, including cannabis, can still make eyes dry or red.

• Importance of check-ups: Regular eye exams are the best way to maintain long-term eye health.

How to Get Rid of Stoned Eyes Fast

To quickly reduce the appearance of bloodshot, glazed, or droopy “stoned” eyes, you can try several remedies.

• Use Eye Drops: Lubricating eye drops (artificial tears) can soothe dryness and reduce redness.

• Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is good for your overall health and helps keep your eyes from feeling dry.

• Apply a Cool Compress: Placing a cool, damp cloth or chilled spoons over your eyes can help reduce puffiness and feel refreshing.

• Rest Your Eyes: Resting in a dim, low-stimulation environment can help your eyes recover more quickly.

If redness or discomfort persists, seeing a doctor is essential to rule out other eye conditions.

How Long Does It Take For Red Eyes to Go Away After Being High?

Redness associated with being high typically begins to fade after a few hours as the effects of cannabis wear off. For most people, the redness is most noticeable after a high dose and usually subsides within 2 to 6 hours.

Using eye drops, drinking water, and resting can help speed up recovery. If you consumed edibles or a particularly high dose, the redness might last longer. If redness does not fade within a day or is accompanied by pain, you should see a doctor.

How to Get Rid of Stoned Eyes Fast Without Eyedrops

If you prefer not to use eye drops, you can focus on other remedies. Staying well-hydrated by drinking water is an excellent first step. Applying a cool compress or splashing your face with cold water can help reduce redness and puffiness. Finally, resting your eyes in a dark, quiet room allows them to recover naturally.

How to Get Rid of Stoner Eye Bags

To combat puffiness or bags under the eyes, place cold spoons or a cool compress on the area to reduce swelling. Ensuring you are well-hydrated and well-rested also helps the skin recover. Avoiding salty foods and smoke can also prevent further puffiness and irritation.

How Do You Get Rid of High, Puffy Eyes?

First, reduce swelling by applying cold compresses to your eyelids. Drinking plenty of water helps flush out toxins and keeps your eyes hydrated. Resting in a cool, dimly lit room can also promote healing. Additionally, avoiding smoke and excessive screen time will help reduce further irritation and puffiness.

FAQs

Why Don’t My Eyes Get Red When I Am High?  

Some people do not experience red eyes after smoking cannabis. This may be due to factors like low THC potency, high tolerance, or adequate hydration, which reduce blood vessel dilation. A lack of redness does not indicate lower intoxication, as other signs like impaired coordination may still be present.

What Are Signs That Someone Is High?  

Signs of intoxication include red, glassy, or droopy eyelids, slow speech, inappropriate giggling, increased appetite, and impaired coordination. While red eyes are a common indicator, eye exams cannot definitively confirm marijuana use.

Why Can’t I See When I’m High?  

THC disrupts visual processing in the brain, leading to temporary blurriness or difficulty focusing. These effects can cause light sensitivity and impaired depth perception, making tasks like driving challenging. These issues typically resolve as the high fades.

Do Eye Drops Affect Your High?  

Eye drops do not alter cannabis intoxication. They reduce redness by constricting blood vessels but do not affect THC’s psychoactive effects. Users can relieve eye discomfort while remaining high.

Why Do My Eyes Feel Weird When I’m High?  

Marijuana can reduce tear production, causing dryness or heaviness in the eyes. This temporary discomfort can be alleviated with hydration or artificial tears, although chronic use may increase irritation.

How Do You Get Rid of High Eyes Naturally?  

Try:  

• Cold Water Splash: It constricts blood vessels to reduce redness.  

• Rest: Spending time in low light minimizes irritation.  

• Hydration: Drinking water helps improve moisture levels in the eyes. 

Get Treatment for Drug Addiction at District Behavioral Health

Marijuana misuse, leading to high eyes, may co-occur with treatable substance abuse issues like cocaine or benzodiazepines, requiring professional help. District Behavioral Health Group offers comprehensive, evidence-based treatment for addiction and mental health disorders, tailored to individual needs. Our nationwide recovery network ensures a clear, supportive path to recovery. 

Our programs include:

• Medication-Assisted Detox: Medically supervised detox with FDA-approved medications for safe withdrawal.

• Crisis Intervention & Stabilization: Immediate support to stabilize mental health crises.

• Inpatient & Residential Programs: 24/7 care with therapy and structured routines in a healing environment.

• Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP): Full-day intensive therapy without overnight stays.

• Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP): Part-time therapy balancing structure and daily life.

• Outpatient Programs (OP): Flexible therapy to sustain recovery independently.

Call our team at (888) 707-6073 to learn about our addiction and mental health recovery programs.

Sources
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5938896/

[2] https://www.healthline.com/health/weed-eyes

[3] https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/hallucinogens

[4] https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/medical-marijuana-glaucoma-treament

[5] https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321231

[6] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK381/

[7] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5938896/