Alcohol can affect your eyesight in both the short and long term. Excessive drinking interferes with how the brain and eyes work together, leading to temporary visual disturbances and in some cases, increasing the risk of permanent eye damage.
We all know that drinking alcohol can make you feel tipsy, jolly and cause slurred speech to name just a few effects. Did you know that excessive drinking of alcohol can also have implications for your eyesight and other parts of your body?
Below is a list of the short-term and long-term effects that excessive alcohol consumption can have on your eyesight:
Short Term Effects of Alcohol on Your Eyesight
1. Decreased Visual Performance
Drinking heavily impairs brain function which results in altered vision. This occurs because alcohol slows communication between the brain’s neurotransmitters. This may cause blurred or double vision due to weakened eye muscle control, which is why drivers under the influence have delayed reactions.
2. Slower Pupil Reaction
Alcohol slows the speed at which the iris constricts and dilates in response to different light levels. This can cause temporary blindness and is particularly dangerous when driving, as oncoming headlights may dazzle the eyes.
3. Decreased Contrast Sensitivity
When under the influence of alcohol, it becomes more difficult to distinguish between shades of grey. This is why driving in foggy or low-contrast conditions while intoxicated puts lives at risk.
4. Dry Eyes
A study by Hallym University College of Medicine confirms that drinking alcohol can increase the symptoms of dry eyes.
5. Eye Twitching
Eye twitching (myokymia) can be triggered by excessive alcohol consumption.
6. Migraines
Alcohol consumption can make the eyes more sensitive to light which may trigger migraine headaches.
7. Changes in Eye Appearance
Alcohol dilates blood vessels in the eyes, making you more prone to bloodshot or red eyes.
Long Term Effects of Alcohol on Your Eyesight
1. Increased Risk of Eye Disorders
Numerous studies have shown that heavy drinkers are more likely to develop cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.
2. Impaired Vision Due to Vitamin Deficiency
Heavy drinking can cause liver damage which affects the body’s ability to absorb essential vitamins. Vitamin B1 deficiency may lead to paralysis and weakness of eye muscles, while vitamin A deficiency can cause reduced night vision, thinning of the cornea, dry eyes and retinal damage.
3. Optic Neuropathy
Also known as tobacco–alcohol amblyopia, this condition can develop in excessive drinkers. Damage to the optic nerve can result in a painless but progressive loss of vision.
4. Foetal Alcohol Syndrome
Mothers who drink excessive alcohol during pregnancy may put their babies at risk of vision and developmental difficulties.
Can long-term alcohol use cause permanent vision damage?
Long-term excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of permanent vision damage, particularly when linked to nutritional deficiencies and optic nerve damage. In some cases, vision loss may be irreversible if alcohol misuse continues.
As with all things, alcohol should be consumed in moderation and you should never drink and drive. If you need any assistance with your home eye care needs contact us today.