You might be familiar with meth mouth and other physical effects of methamphetamine addiction, but what’s less commonly discussed are meth eyes. The reality is, meth (also called crystal meth) can impact your eyes and vision, both in the short and long term. Recognizing meth addiction early is crucial so that treatment can be started as soon as possible, as these eye issues are just one of the many harmful consequences of the addiction. Read on to discover:
- What do your eyes look like on meth?
- What does meth do to your eyes long-term?
- How to heal the effects of meth on eyes.
How Does Meth Affect the Eyes?
Heavy and continuous use of methamphetamine can lead to various eye problems, often called meth eyes. These issues arise because meth can constrict blood vessels, reducing blood flow and oxygen to many body parts, including the eyes.
Effects of meth on the eyes include:
- Enlarged pupils: Meth can cause the pupils to dilate, making them look very large, even in bright environments. This happens because meth affects the nervous system, leading to an increase in neurotransmitters that control the eye’s iris muscles.
- Dry eyes: Meth use can reduce tear production, leading to dry and irritated eyes. This chronic dryness can damage the cornea and conjunctiva, increasing the risk of infections and discomfort.
- Changes in eye appearance: With long-term use, meth can alter the appearance of the eyes of a meth user, making them look sunken or bulging due to changes in blood flow and weakened eye socket tissues.
- Nystagmus (uncontrolled eye movements): Meth can cause nystagmus, where the eyes move rapidly and uncontrollably, affecting coordination and vision.
- Blurred vision: Those who use meth may experience blurry vision, making it difficult to focus on objects. This can increase the risk of accidents and impact daily activities.
In addition to these effects, meth abuse can lead to meth eye discharge, characterized by unusual eye secretions from eyes on meth. This discharge, which may be watery, sticky, or pus-like, can worsen eye irritation and infection.
How to Get Rid of Meth Eyes
Treating meth eyes involves addressing both the immediate symptoms and the underlying cause, which is methamphetamine use.
Cease meth use
The most fundamental step is to stop using meth. This prevents further damage and allows the body to start recovering. Seeking professional help for addiction treatment can streamline this process.
Medical evaluation
Consult an eye specialist or healthcare provider for a comprehensive eye examination. They can assess the extent of the damage and recommend appropriate treatments.
Hydration and nutrition
Proper hydration and a nutritious diet can aid the body’s healing process, including the recovery of eye health.
Artificial tears
For dry eyes, over-the-counter artificial tear solutions can provide relief and help maintain eye moisture.
Rest your eyes
Reducing screen time and ensuring adequate sleep can help alleviate eye strain and promote healing.
Follow prescribed treatments
If a doctor prescribes medication or treatment for conditions like nystagmus or corneal issues, follow these recommendations diligently.
Sunglasses for protection
Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from UV light and reduce glare, which can be uncomfortable for sensitive eyes.
Supportive care
Engaging in supportive therapies, such as counseling and support groups, can expedite overall recovery from methamphetamine addiction, indirectly benefiting eye health.
Regular eye check-ups
Regular follow-ups with an eye care professional can help monitor recovery and address any ongoing issues.
Healthy lifestyle choices
Adopting a healthy lifestyle, including avoiding smoking and reducing alcohol consumption, can further support the healing process.
Keep in mind that recovery from meth eyes depends on the severity of the condition and the duration of meth use. Patience and consistent care are key to managing and improving eye health.
FAQs
Does meth make your eyes look red?
Yes, meth use can cause redness in the eyes, often resulting from increased blood pressure and reduced sleep.
Can meth cause eye infections?
While meth doesn’t directly cause eye infections, its use can lead to behaviors that increase the risk of infection, such as poor hygiene or rubbing the eyes with dirty hands.
Does meth dilate your eyes?
Meth use leads to dilated pupils due to its stimulant properties on the central nervous system.
What causes meth eye discharge?
Meth eye discharge can be due to a combination of factors such as dehydration, lack of sleep, and potential eye irritation or infection aggravated by drug use.
Get Treatment for Meth Addiction at Ohio Recovery
If you or someone you care about has been affected by meth blisters or meth eyes, you might consider engaging with evidence-based treatment for stimulant use disorder at Ohio Recovery Centers.
By choosing outpatient treatment at our rehab in Cincinnati, OH, you can fulfill your daily obligations while participating in therapy alongside peers facing similar issues.
There are no medications to treat meth addiction, so you will access talk therapies, motivational therapies, counseling, family therapy, and holistic treatments as you tackle the psychological side of stimulant use disorder. When you are ready to take action against stimulant abuse, call 877-679-2132 for effective and evidence-based treatment.