Introduction
Marijuana has been used for centuries for its medicinal and recreational properties, but did you know that it can also have some surprising side effects? According to experts, marijuana can have a range of unexpected effects on the body, from increased appetite to improved sleep. In this article, we’ll explore the surprising side effects of marijuana, as well as the potential risks associated with its use. We’ll also provide some tips on how to safely use marijuana and minimize the risk of any unwanted side effects. So, if you’re curious about the potential benefits and risks of marijuana, read on to learn more!
Surprising Side Effects of Marijuana, Say Experts — Eat This Not That
Marijuana has been used for centuries for medicinal and recreational purposes, but experts are now warning of some surprising side effects that can come with its use. While marijuana has been found to have some positive effects, such as reducing pain and anxiety, it can also have some negative consequences. Here are some of the surprising side effects of marijuana, according to experts.
1. Increased Risk of Mental Health Issues
One of the most concerning side effects of marijuana is the increased risk of mental health issues. Studies have found that people who use marijuana are more likely to experience depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. Additionally, marijuana use has been linked to an increased risk of developing psychosis, which is a mental disorder characterized by delusions and hallucinations.
2. Impaired Cognitive Function
Another surprising side effect of marijuana is impaired cognitive function. Studies have found that marijuana use can lead to decreased memory, attention, and problem-solving skills. Additionally, marijuana use has been linked to an increased risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
3. Increased Risk of Addiction
Marijuana use can also lead to an increased risk of addiction. Studies have found that people who use marijuana are more likely to become dependent on the drug and experience withdrawal symptoms when they try to quit. Additionally, marijuana use has been linked to an increased risk of developing other substance use disorders.
4. Increased Risk of Respiratory Problems
Marijuana use can also lead to an increased risk of respiratory problems. Studies have found that people who use marijuana are more likely to experience coughing, wheezing, and other respiratory issues. Additionally, marijuana use has been linked to an increased risk of developing chronic bronchitis.
5. Increased Risk of Cardiovascular Problems
Finally, marijuana use can also lead to an increased risk of cardiovascular problems. Studies have found that people who use marijuana are more likely to experience an increased heart rate, high blood pressure, and other cardiovascular issues. Additionally, marijuana use has been linked to an increased risk of developing heart disease.
While marijuana has been found to have some positive effects, it is important to be aware of the potential side effects that can come with its use. If you are considering using marijuana, it is important to talk to your doctor about the potential risks and benefits. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of addiction and seek help if needed.
Marijuana, also referred to as weed, pot, dope, or cannabis, is the dried flowers and leaves of the cannabis plant. “It contains mind-altering (e.g., psychoactive) compounds like tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, as well as other active compounds like cannabidiol, or CBD, that are not mind-altering,” explains the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Marijuana is used for many reasons, some recreational and others medicinal. However, no matter what you are using it for, there can be side effects, explains Niket Sonpal, MD, NYC Internist and Gastroenterologist, Faculty Member Touro College of Medicine. Read on to learn about the surprising side effects of marijuana. Read on—and to ensure your health and the health of others, don’t miss these Sure Signs You’ve Already Had COVID.
One potential short-term negative effect of marijuana is a lowered reaction time. “Slower reaction times may occur due to the THC, the main psychoactive in marijuana. It’s believed that the thalamo-cortico-striatal circuit network in the brain (portion related to the perception of time) contains many receptors that bind with THC,” explains Dr. Sonpal. “When this binding happens, your internal clock speeds us, thus leading you to feel as if everything has slowed down around you.”
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While marijuana has a calming effect on some people, others experience severe anxiety. “Someone may experience increased feelings of anxiety because high THC levels cause the brain to receive more cannabinoids than usual. This over-stimulates the amygdala, which causes some people to feel anxious,” says Dr. Sonpal.
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Using marijuana not only makes the heart beat faster, but could also lead to increased risk of stroke and heart disease, says the CDC. However, they do point out that most of the scientific studies linking marijuana to heart attacks and strokes are based on reports from people who smoked it. “Smoked marijuana delivers THC and other cannabinoids to the body, but it also delivers harmful substances to users and those close by, including many of the same substances found in tobacco smoke, which are harmful to the lungs and cardiovascular system.”
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Per the CDC, marijuana affects brain development. “When marijuana users begin using as teenagers, the drug may reduce attention, memory, and learning functions and affect how the brain builds connections between the areas necessary for these functions,” they explain. “Marijuana’s effects on these abilities may last a long time or even be permanent. This means that someone who uses marijuana may not do as well in school and may have trouble remembering things.”
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A potential short-term positive effect? Marijuana may help you sleep better. “Marijuana acts as a sleep aid because the THC’s sedative effects lengthen the time spent in deep sleep and shorten the amount of time it takes to fall asleep,” explains Dr. Sonpal.
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A potential long- term negative effect is increased risk of prescription opioid abuse, states Dr. Sonpal. “Research has suggested that individuals who use marijuana may be more likely to misuse opioids than nonusers,” he explains.
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Dr. Sonpal also reveals that s potential long-term positive effect of marijuana is that it can treat chronic pain. “THC in marijuana reduces pain perception and pain signaling by interacting with the body’s cannabinoid receptors, thus relieving pain,” he says. And to get through this pandemic at your healthiest, don’t miss these 35 Places You’re Most Likely to Catch COVID.