Side effects of cannabis
It's important to note that the severity and likelihood of experiencing side effects can vary widely depending on factors such as individual sensitivity, dosage, consumption method, and frequency of use. Additionally, many of these side effects are temporary and subside once the effects of cannabis wear off. If you experience persistent or severe side effects, it's advisable to consult a healthcare professional.
Short-term Memory Impairment: Cannabis use can temporarily impair short-term memory, making it difficult to retain new information or recall recent events.
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Impaired Motor Coordination: Cannabis can affect motor skills and coordination, leading to slower reaction times and decreased coordination, which may impair activities such as driving or operating machinery.
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Altered Perception: Cannabis use can alter perception, leading to changes in sensory perception, time distortion, and altered perception of space.
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Dry Mouth and Eyes: Cannabis can cause dry mouth (cottonmouth) and dry eyes due to a reduction in saliva and tear production. This can be alleviated by staying hydrated and using eye drops.
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Increased Heart Rate: Cannabis use can cause a temporary increase in heart rate, which may be concerning for individuals with heart conditions or hypertension.
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Anxiety and Paranoia: In some individuals, particularly those prone to anxiety or paranoia, cannabis use can exacerbate these symptoms, leading to feelings of anxiety, paranoia, or panic.
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Psychological Dependence: Although less common than with other substances, some individuals may develop psychological dependence on cannabis, experiencing cravings or compulsive use despite negative consequences.
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Depersonalization or Derealization: In rare cases, cannabis use may induce feelings of depersonalization (feeling disconnected from oneself) or derealization (feeling disconnected from reality), particularly at higher doses or in susceptible individuals.