Cannabis use, a topic of increasing relevance, raises questions about its safety and long-term effects. While 33 states have legalized it for medical purposes and 11 for recreational use, there remains uncertainty about its overall impact on health.
Harvard Health emphasizes the importance of using cannabis safely. If smoked, it should not be held in the lungs for more than a second or two to avoid lung irritation. Alternative methods like under-the-tongue tinctures, edibles, topical products, or dry herb vaporizers are suggested to reduce lung inflammation. Moreover, users are advised not to drive for at least four hours after consumption.
The cognitive effects of long-term cannabis use are also a concern. A study highlights a decline in IQ and processing speed in long-term users, indicating potential cognitive impairments. This decline seems more pronounced with frequent usage, suggesting a possible causative relationship.
Anesthesiologists warn about the implications of cannabis use before surgery. Regular users may require higher anesthesia doses, leading to complications like decreased blood pressure and delayed awakening. Additionally, other side effects could lead to serious complications during anesthesia.
Despite the potential medical benefits, there are risks associated with cannabis use. It can have cardiac and lung effects, potentially leading to bronchitis or rapid heart rate. There’s also a risk of addiction and adverse effects on mental health, including anxiety and panic attacks at high dosages. Particularly for teenagers, the use of cannabis can be especially hazardous.
Withdrawal from cannabis may not be straightforward, with symptoms including aggression, irritability, anxiety, insomnia, anorexia, depression, restlessness, headaches, vomiting, and abdominal pain. These symptoms underscore the challenges faced by those trying to reduce or cease usage.
Memory impairment is another concern associated with marijuana use. THC, marijuana’s main psychoactive component, impacts memory by attaching to receptors in critical brain regions for memory formation, such as the hippocampus, amygdala, and cerebral cortex. However, the extent to which long-term use affects memory, especially for medical purposes, remains a subject of ongoing research.
While there is growing familiarity with cannabis, many questions about its safe use and potential addiction persist. As research continues, it becomes increasingly important to approach cannabis use with caution and awareness of its possible health implications.
For more detailed information, you can refer to the articles from Harvard Health, Psychiatry, Harvard Gazette, and Go Ask Alice!.