Effects Of Marijuana On The Human Body
Chris Channing
Perhaps more so than with any other illegal drug, side effects resulting from marijuana use can vary widely. What side effects are felt is chiefly determined by the user's tolerance to tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, the active ingredient of marijuana plants. As with many other mind altering drugs, a user's state of mind before using the drug plays a large part in the quality of the experience, as well as what side effects are experienced.
Short-Term Side Effects
People who use marijuana do so chiefly to experience a change in their perception, increase their relaxation, and to feel good in general. While consuming marijuana is usually reported to be a pleasureful activity by most users, harsh experiences known as "bad trips" can occur. While under the influence, a user's mind may seem more active, resulting in creative thoughts. Time distortion while high on marijuana may take place, leaving users feeling as though hours take place in the course of a few minutes. Dramatically increased enjoyment of everyday activities often takes place, making boring pastimes much more tolerable to the marijuana user. Short term memory is inhibited rather noticeably. Feelings of paranoia or of being in danger can occur with low doses, and at higher doses, particularly those consumed orally, users of the drug may go into panic attacks.
The physical effects experienced with marijuana can also vary widely. Although the main reason some people use the drug is for relaxation purposes, many other changes in behavior and appearance might take place. In some cases, relaxation can lead to lethargy and unwillingness to do much of anything. Marijuana is a powerful appetite stimulant, resulting in the use of the term "munchies". This has led to marijuana being prescribed to people who have trouble holding down their food, usually chemotherapy patients. Marijuana also numbs the sense of touch, and some stronger varieties of the cannabis indica species are used as painkillers both recreationally and as a prescription.
Some types of marijuana are even prescribed to people who have trouble eating as a result of chemotherapy. Marijuana can also be used as a painkiller, and many of the stronger strains of cannabis indica are prescribed for that exact same reason. Other physical side effects caused by use of marijuana are bloodshot eyes, lightheadedness, and a decrease in overall coordination.
Long-Term Effects
After prolonged marijuana use, many changes in a marijuana user's overall mood, and, in some cases, mental health can occur. After periods of frequent use, a user's memory, both short and long-term, is affected tremendously. Marijuana users may find themselves desiring to use more and more if they are unable to get high as their tolerance to THC rises.
After marijuana use has been put to a stop, certain withdrawal symptoms may occur. Most common is boredom with everyday life while sober. Difficulty sleeping may also occur, as marijuana is used by some as a sleep aid. Some studies have shown that marijuana users are more likely to be mentally unhealthy, developing problems as extreme as psychosis, than people who do not use marijuana.
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