Why Your Eyes Get Droopy When High
Cannabis affects your eyes in several ways. THC causes blood vessels to dilate, lowering blood pressure and potentially leading to droopy, red eyes. The parasympathetic nervous system is also activated, causing the eyelid muscles to relax. Read more from Healthline to learn what cannabis does to your body.
1. Stay Hydrated Before and During Use
Dehydration can worsen droopy eyes. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after consuming cannabis to maintain hydration levels and minimize this effect.
2. Use Eye Drops Strategically
Over-the-counter eye drops can help reduce redness and provide moisture. Look for:
- Redness-reducing eye drops (with vasoconstrictors)
- Lubricating drops for dry eyes
- Apply 15-20 minutes before social situations
3. Cold Compress Technique
Cold temperatures constrict blood vessels and reduce swelling:
- Wrap ice in a clean towel
- Apply to closed eyes for 5-10 minutes
- Alternatively, use cold spoons from the freezer or chilled cucumber slices
4. Caffeine to Combat Droopiness
Caffeine can counteract drowsiness and help keep your eyes more alert:
- Drink coffee or tea
- Try caffeine eye creams (apply 30 minutes before needed)
- Green tea bags (chilled) placed on the eyes work as both a caffeine source and a cold compress
5. Choose Your Strains Carefully
Different cannabis strains produce different effects:
- Sativa strains typically cause less drowsiness than Indicas
- Look for strains lower in THC and higher in CBD
- Research strain effects before use
6. Timing Matters
Plan your consumption strategically:
- Allow 2-3 hours between use and social events
- Morning or early afternoon use gives more recovery time
- Consider microdosing for more manageable effects
7. Eye Exercises to Keep Alert
Simple exercises can help maintain muscle tone in your eyelids:
- Blink rapidly for 30 seconds
- Look up and down, then side to side
- Gently massage around the eye area to stimulate circulation
When to Just Embrace Sunglasses
Sometimes prevention isn't possible or convenient:
- Quality sunglasses are a reliable backup plan
- Choose styles that cover sufficient eye area
- Wear caps so your eyes are less visible
- Consider transition lenses for indoor/outdoor versatility
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Why do my eyes get droopy when I’m high?
THC lowers blood pressure and dilates blood vessels, which increases blood flow to the eyes. This can relax the eyelid muscles and make your eyes appear droopy or heavy. The parasympathetic nervous system is also activated, which promotes relaxation.
2. Do edibles make your eyes droopy?
Yes, edibles can cause droopy or heavy eyes just like smoking or vaping. Since edibles deliver THC through digestion and the liver, the effects often feel stronger and last longer, which can increase the likelihood of experiencing eye heaviness or redness.
3. Why does weed make eyes heavy?
Cannabis activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which relaxes muscles, including those around the eyelids. Combined with THC’s sedative effects, this makes your eyes feel heavy or harder to keep open. Strain type and dosage also play a role in determining the intensity of this effect.
4. Does every cannabis strain cause droopy eyes?
Not necessarily. Indica strains are more likely to cause drowsiness and droopy eyes, while sativa strains tend to be more energizing. Strains higher in CBD and lower in THC may also produce fewer droopy-eye effects.
5. Will tolerance reduce droopy eyes over time?
For many users, yes. Frequent cannabis consumers may notice that their eyes don’t get as droopy or red as when they first started using, although individual responses vary.
Is Droopy Eyes Common?
Droopy eyes are a common side effect, but can be managed with these techniques. Remember that individual results may vary, and it's always best to consume responsibly and in appropriate settings.
