This is What It Feels Like to Have Marijuana Side Effects — Eat This Not That

By Ghuman

Introduction

Marijuana is a popular recreational drug that has been used for centuries. While it is known to have many positive effects, it can also have some negative side effects. In this article, we will discuss the various marijuana side effects and how to manage them. We will also provide tips on how to eat healthy while using marijuana, so that you can enjoy the benefits without the negative consequences.

This is What It Feels Like to Have Marijuana Side Effects

Marijuana is a popular recreational drug, but it can also have some unpleasant side effects. While the effects of marijuana vary from person to person, some of the most common side effects include dry mouth, increased heart rate, and anxiety. In some cases, marijuana can also cause paranoia, dizziness, and nausea.

Dry Mouth

One of the most common side effects of marijuana is dry mouth. This is caused by the active ingredient in marijuana, THC, which binds to receptors in the salivary glands and reduces saliva production. This can lead to a feeling of dryness in the mouth, as well as a feeling of thirst.

Increased Heart Rate

Another common side effect of marijuana is an increased heart rate. This is caused by the release of adrenaline, which is triggered by the THC in marijuana. This can lead to a feeling of anxiety and can be dangerous for people with pre-existing heart conditions.

Anxiety

Marijuana can also cause feelings of anxiety. This is caused by the release of cortisol, which is a hormone that is released in response to stress. This can lead to feelings of panic and can be especially dangerous for people with pre-existing anxiety disorders.

Paranoia

In some cases, marijuana can also cause feelings of paranoia. This is caused by the release of dopamine, which is a neurotransmitter that is associated with pleasure. This can lead to feelings of fear and can be especially dangerous for people with pre-existing mental health conditions.

Dizziness and Nausea

Marijuana can also cause feelings of dizziness and nausea. This is caused by the release of serotonin, which is a neurotransmitter that is associated with relaxation. This can lead to feelings of disorientation and can be especially dangerous for people with pre-existing medical conditions.

Eat This Not That

If you are experiencing any of the side effects of marijuana, it is important to take steps to reduce your risk. Eating a healthy diet and avoiding processed foods can help to reduce the risk of experiencing side effects. Additionally, drinking plenty of water and avoiding alcohol can help to reduce the risk of experiencing side effects.

Many people find marijuana beneficial, either for recreation or relief from a medical condition. But some people have a less pleasant experience with cannabis. Marijuana can cause side effects, which can range from unpleasant to risky for health. This is what it may feel like to experience some of the most common side effects of marijuana. Read on to find out more—and to ensure your health and the health of others, don’t miss these Sure Signs You’ve Already Had COVID.

Woman suffering an anxiety attack alone in the night
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Smoking marijuana involves inhaling, well, smoke, and that can irritate your lungs. “Research shows that smoking marijuana causes chronic bronchitis and marijuana smoke has been shown to injure the cell linings of the large airways, which could explain why smoking marijuana leads to symptoms such as chronic cough, phlegm production, wheezing, and acute bronchitis,” says the American Lung Association.

Asian young woman feeling discomfort as suffering from heartburn holding chest with closed eyes and sitting with folded legs on couch at home.
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THC, the main ingredient in marijuana, can raise heart rate by 20 to 50 beats a minute, causing a feeling that your heart is racing. This may last for several hours. “Marijuana can make the heart beat faster and can make blood pressure higher immediately after use,” says the CDC. “It could also lead to increased risk of stroke, heart disease, and other vascular diseases.” Researchers think THC may cause inflammation in blood vessels, damaging them.

Woman has a Migraine and headache after wake up in the morning.
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“There’s no question that marijuana can produce short-term problems with thinking, working memory, executive function, and psychomotor function,” says Harvard Medical School. The reason: THC attaches to receptors in the brain that are responsible for those vital abilities, including the hippocampus, amygdala, and cerebral cortex, essentially taking them over.

young woman with nausea in all denim outfit sitting on bed
Shutterstock / New Africa

Marijuana is infamous for increasing appetite and causing “the munchies,” but some people might experience the opposite effect. People with cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) can experience stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting, sometimes severe, after using cannabis. Health experts estimate 2.7 million Americans have the condition. According to the Cleveland Clinic, you have a higher risk of developing CHS if you use marijuana at least once a week.

Woman looking into distance.
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Cannabis helps some people relax and unwind. It can make others anxious and panicky. Marijuana may cause anxiety, paranoia, and even panic attacks, says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Several studies have linked marijuana use to increased risk for psychiatric disorders, including psychosis (schizophrenia), depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders,” says the National Institutes of Health. If you have a mood disorder, you might want to talk with your doctor before using marijuana. And to protect your life and the lives of others, don’t visit any of these 35 Places You’re Most Likely to Catch COVID.

Michael Martin

Michael Martin is a New York City-based writer and editor whose health and lifestyle content has also been published on Beachbody and Openfit. A contributing writer for Eat This, Not That!, he has also been published in New York, Architectural Digest, Interview, and many others. Read more