Alcohol abuse can affect your body in many ways, leading to immediate effects and other long-term consequences. These may include slurred speech, slowed reactions, memory loss, or change. But did you know that consumption of all those extra shots of alcohol on a regular basis can negatively impact your eyes as well? This article will lead you through all the possible ways in which extensive alcohol consumption can harm your peepers.
Dry Eyes
Ever wondered why you feel incredibly parched after a boozy night out? It’s because alcohol is a diuretic, meaning it causes frequent urination that leads to depleting your body fluid levels at a quicker rate. This ultimately results in dehydration which also extends to your eyes, stimulating the dry eye syndrome symptoms like itchiness and a burning sensation.
To avoid any of these side effects, it is advised to keep up your water intake between all those special cocktails. Also, if you wear lenses, make sure to only invest in quality lenses that don’t dry out your eyes. Now, you can even buy contacts without prescription at different online optical stores.
Blurred or double vision
After a heavy drinking session, you’re sure to soon experience blurred vision. This is because alcohol adversely affects the peripheral vision that allows you to see objects all around you in a type of tunnel conception. As a result, you may have double vision and a slower pupil reaction.
While at it, understand that driving under influence is quite risky given you can’t react promptly, recognize objects, or estimate distances. Hence, if you plan to enjoy a few bevies on the weekend, make sure to arrange for a safe way to get yourself home.
Eyelid Twitching
Eyelid twitching is yet another common effect of heavy alcohol consumption. This annoying spasm of eye movement is known as myokymia caused by a muscle in the eye. It impacts the reaction time of the pupils and often leads to trouble focusing.
The problem usually eases down as soon as the alcohol wears off and isn’t the cause of concern. However, if it lasts for more than 2 weeks, it is best to consult a doctor as there can be other factors contributing to the severity of the situation.
Redness in the eyes
Red or bloodshot eyes are an indicator that you went a bit overboard with your alcohol intake. Alcohol reduces the oxygen in your red blood cells, causing the tiny blood vessels in your eyes to distend. This allows more blood to flow through them, giving your eyes a red appearance.
Here, you can use an eye drop to settle down the discomfort. Or you can try some home remedies like placing a cold compressor or a frozen spoon on closed eyes. The cold temperature will help constrain the blood vessels and bring the redness down.
Takeaway:
The more you consume alcohol, the closer you are to developing serious health problems. Thus, if you do enjoy drinking alcohol, just try to have it in moderation.
Also, while consuming alcohol, it is best to have a glass of water between drinks to keep yourself hydrated. Plus, avoid drinking on an empty stomach to lessen the effects of alcohol.