Alcohol can cause blood vessels to dilate, leading to increased blood flow in some areas while constricting vessels in others. When alcohol enters your system, it can disrupt these functions in various ways. From altering blood flow to affecting the cellular integrity of retinal cells, the repercussions can be profound.
Alcohol effects on skin health
And they remain enlarged even in bright conditions where they should contract. And this is why, when you drink, you might notice you’re much more sensitive to bright lights. Getting treatment for alcohol use disorder can result in brighter and clearer eyes. Dove Recovery programs can help you reverse the symptoms of alcohol eyes by treating the root of the problem.
Signs & Symptoms of Alcohol Abuse
One of the reasons this occurs is because alcohol use can make the blood vessels in your eyes swell or even burst. Dry eyes are a common symptom from any type of alcoholic beverage, including wine. Not only can alcohol cause you to be dehydrated, which strains your eyes, but alcohol can also slow down your eyes’ natural reflexes.
Early detection and treatment are crucial in preventing vision loss and complications. In the case of alcohol and eye infections, here we also have an instance in which liquor intake indirectly has a negative effect on eye health. Alcohol can impair the immune system and reduce the body’s ability to fight off bacteria and diseases, including those affecting the eyes. Excessive alcohol consumption increases the risk of developing cataracts. That’s a common eye condition where the eye’s lens becomes cloudy and obscures vision. Cataracts are relatively more common in heavy drinkers than in moderate or non-drinkers.
Alcohol & 6 Effects It Has On Your Eyes
If you find yourself consuming alcohol frequently or in large quantities, it may be time to reassess your relationship with it. Dry eye disease (DED), also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca, is a chronic condition characterised by insufficient tear production or compromised tear quality. Tears play a crucial role in maintaining eye comfort and health by lubricating the eyes, washing away debris, and preventing infections. Alcohol consumption can disrupt this delicate balance by affecting tear composition and production. Alcohol weakens the immune system and disrupts DNA repair, potentially increasing skin cancer risk.
Possible long-term effects on eyes
Alcohol can contribute to inflammation and oxidative stress within the retina, both of which are known risk factors for AMD. This disruption may not only result in less overall REM sleep but can also lead to a rebound effect in the second half of the night, with an increase in REM sleep. This can cause symptoms similar to REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD), where individuals act out their dreams due to incomplete muscle paralysis during REM sleep. Alcohol consumption has a profound effect on sleep, particularly on the Rapid Eye Movement (REM) stage, which is essential for restful sleep and cognitive functions like memory and learning.
Furthermore, heavy drinking may lead to nutritional deficiencies that can adversely affect retinal health. For example, a lack alcoholic eyes: the impact alcohol has on your eyes of essential nutrients like vitamins A, C, and E can impair the retina’s ability to function optimally. If you notice a glassy appearance in your eyes or a loved one’s, it may be a sign of alcohol use disorder.
- This short-term reduction is often dose-dependent, meaning a greater amount of alcohol consumed can lead to a more significant, albeit temporary, drop in IOP.
- Sustained alcohol exposure can contribute to oxidative stress and potential damage to the eye’s drainage system, which plays a role in regulating IOP.
- Whether you’re dealing with heavy alcohol consumption or questioning the effects of moderate alcohol consumption, it’s worth taking a closer look—literally and figuratively.
Prevention & Treatment of Alcohol Eyesight Damage
John’s key responsibilities include maintaining the day-to-day operations from both a clinical and housing perspective. John’s goal is to monitor every department to ensure proper policies and procedures are in place and client care is carried out effortlessly. John joined Amethyst as a behavioral health technician where he quickly developed strong personal relationships with the clients through support and guidance.
At our treatment centers in Scottsdale, Arizona, we provide a safe, supportive space where healing begins. Taking that first step toward help is a powerful move toward lasting recovery. Contact our team today to explore your options for a healthier, alcohol-free life.
Your New Life Starts Here
For heavy drinkers and those with an alcohol use disorder, the remaining alcohol leaves the body via breath, sweat, and urine. The calories contained in alcohol are commonly referred to as ‘empty calories’, meaning they hold no nutritional value for the body. This means the body adds these calories onto the ones consumed via food every time we drink, which can often put people way over their calorie limit if they drink excessively. Our bodies also prioritize getting rid of alcohol as it is a toxin and can’t be stored like carbohydrates, proteins, or fats. This slows metabolism as the body prioritizes getting rid of alcohol calories, leading to weight gain.
- This can lead to the development of conditions that impair vision, such as cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, and ocular surface disease.
- Dry eye disease (DED), also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca, is a chronic condition characterised by insufficient tear production or compromised tear quality.
- This can cause permanent vision loss, including changes in colour perception and reduced visual acuity.
- Alcohol consumption has a profound effect on sleep, particularly on the Rapid Eye Movement (REM) stage, which is essential for restful sleep and cognitive functions like memory and learning.
Addressing any underlying issues related to alcohol use is crucial not only for your overall health but also for preserving your vision. By taking proactive steps toward recovery and prioritizing your eye health, you can work toward minimizing any potential damage caused by alcohol. After drinking, the glassy appearance of the eyes is due to the dilation of blood vessels, making them look more prominent and giving a shiny, glazed look.
Because alcohol causes blood vessels to become leaky, eye puffiness and swelling can occur. However, this is often a momentary effect that goes away after alcohol leaves your system. While bloodshot eyes from alcohol are common, interestingly, alcohol doesn’t just have short-term effects on the eyes. Below, we outline both the short-term and long-term effects related to alcohol and the eyes.