It is a common misconception that smoking cannabis directly causes the whites of the eyes to turn yellow. Unlike medical conditions, cannabis use does not lead to yellow eye discoloration. While cannabis can affect eye appearance, these changes are temporary and distinct from yellowing associated with health issues. If someone experiences yellow eyes, it signals an underlying health problem completely unrelated to cannabis.
Cannabis and Eye Appearance
Smoking cannabis frequently causes temporary redness of the eyes, known as conjunctival injection. This occurs because tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a compound in cannabis, lowers blood pressure, which dilates blood vessels throughout the body, including those in the eyes. The expansion of these tiny blood vessels on the sclera, the white part of the eye, leads to the characteristic pinkish-red hue.
Beyond redness, cannabis use can also lead to dry eyes, a common side effect. This dryness can cause discomfort and irritation, though it does not contribute to eye yellowing. The smoke itself from burning cannabis can further irritate the ocular surface, worsening discomfort, dryness, and redness. These changes in eye appearance are transient, resolving within a few hours after cannabis use.
True Causes of Yellow Eyes
Yellow discoloration of the eyes, known as jaundice, indicates a serious medical issue. Jaundice occurs due to a buildup of bilirubin in the body. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced when red blood cells break down. The liver processes bilirubin, turning it into bile, which is then excreted. When the liver cannot process bilirubin efficiently, or if there is a blockage in the bile ducts, bilirubin accumulates, leading to yellowing of the skin and eyes.
Several medical conditions can cause jaundice. Liver diseases, such as hepatitis (inflammation of the liver), cirrhosis (scarring of the liver), and fatty liver disease, impair the liver’s ability to process bilirubin.
Obstructions in the bile ducts, which carry bile from the liver to the small intestine, can also cause bilirubin to back up. These obstructions might be due to gallstones, tumors, or pancreatic issues. Certain blood disorders, like hemolytic anemia, cause a rapid breakdown of red blood cells, producing more bilirubin than the liver can handle.
When to Consult a Doctor
Experiencing yellow eyes is a medical symptom that warrants medical attention. It is a clear sign that something is amiss with the body’s bilirubin processing system, often pointing to issues with the liver, gallbladder, or pancreas. Ignoring this symptom or attempting to self-diagnose can delay proper treatment for a serious condition.
Regardless of any cannabis use, the appearance of yellow eyes should prompt a medical evaluation. A doctor can conduct tests, such as checking bilirubin and liver enzyme levels, to determine the exact cause of the jaundice. Early diagnosis and intervention are important for managing the condition and preventing complications.