EFFECTS OF SUBSTANCE ADDICTION ON YOUR SIGHT

Excessive use of alcohol and drugs induces many side effects which includes: nausea, changes in mood, aggression, agitation, sleepiness and the likes. All these side effects are strong indication that intoxication is in play. When they occur frequently in an individual, and other changes are observed in some parts of the body such as the eyes, hair, skin, teeth and nose, then it is very clear that alcohol and drugs are being abused.

The change in the conventional colour of the eye and its motion as well, can display intoxication. Eyes which re bloodshot are a strong symptom of intoxication from many drugs and alcohol, and this occurs because there is an expansion of the blood vessels which are present in the eyes.

Other drugs could cause water to drip out of the eyes, or the eyelids could become heavy, and the pupils might experience change in size. As a matter of fact, pupils which have a pinpoint structure show that there is an overdose of opioid use.

When vision damage is in play at the early stage, the brain most times tries to make up for this. However, if the abuse continues for a long time, then medical treatment is needed for the addict, in order to prevent eventual damage of the eyes.

If there are changes in the eye which is as a result of intoxication, there may be measures in place to ensure that it is not obvious. However, having red bloodshot eyes, is a common symptom of being intoxicated with marijuana. Hence, people try to cover this up by using eye drops so that it does not become observable.

Nonetheless, when there is a change in the size of the pupil, and there are changes in the movements of the eye, then it would be hard to hide. When an individual is hooked on addiction for a long period of time, there are strong indications that adverse health problems could set in.

The following points are possible effects of substance abuse on the eyes:

• Macular degeneration which occurs with age
• Cornea damage
• Dry eyes syndrome
• Endophthalmitis
• Glaucoma
• Lesions
• Maculopathy
• Ocular bone damage
• Constant changes in the movement of the eye
• Retinal vascular occlusive disease
• Toxic cataracts