Many states are legalizing recreational use of marijuana, and most have legalized its medical use to some extent, including Texas. State lawmakers recently decriminalized possession of small amounts – and might have made it legal to grow. All of that reflects a general trend toward the acceptance of marijuana for medical and even recreational use. It also means availability is easier, and more people likely will suffer long term side effects of marijuana use.
With more marijuana in our communities, more people are suffering from effects of chronic use. The longer the chronic use continues, the more likely the user will suffer long term side effects of marijuana. Serenity Light Recovery offers effective residential addiction treatment program TX families have grown to trust through years of good service.
Relatively Unknown Risks
Marijuana only recently has become legal to use medicinally, and only a handful of states have legalized it for recreational use. The federal government continues to outlaw its growth, sale, possession, and use. That means publicly funded studies of marijuana and its potential ill effects on chronic users is relatively scarce when compared to many other drugs. While society generally regards marijuana as harmless for adults, there are risks for heavy users. Fortunately, a substance abuse treatment center in Houston can help those struggling with addiction.
Short Term Issues with Chronic Use
The most common way to use marijuana is to smoke it, either as a joint, in a pipe or a water pipe – commonly referred to as a “bong.” Many also prefer using vaping devices to use more potent concentrates, like oil and wax products with very high THC levels. Many people who engage in chronic use by smoking at least once per day – and usually much more often – suffer short-term health effects. Those can include:
- Breathing problems caused by constant smoke inhalation, including bronchitis and asthma
- Increased heart rate that might trigger a heart attack
- Nausea from Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome, which can cause vomiting and dehydration requiring medical attention
Marijuana use generally is considered harmless by many, especially those who enjoy smoking it. Recent advancements and black-market dealings have created the potential for death. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently warned the public to avoid buying concentrates and vaping products from street sources. The street products are not tested and affirmed as healthful, unlike those sold in state-approved dispensaries.
Signs of Long Term Side Effects of Marijuana
Like any drug, marijuana has addictive properties. About 10 percent of users become addicted to it, and that could become more common with the increased availability of stronger strains and concentrates. Signs of the long-term side effects of marijuana include:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Insomnia
- Loss of appetite
- Memory loss
Other potential marijuana long term side effects might impact the brain in ways yet not fully understood. Studies have not shown whether or not long term effects are truly lasting on adult users after they cease use for a period of time. The only certainty is that long term use is linked to delusions, hallucinations and fractured thinking. That means it is harder for those heavily engaged in smoking pot to focus and complete daily tasks than when sober.
Learn How Serenity Light Recovery Can Help
Marijuana long term side effects don’t have to ruin your life or that of someone you know. Serenity Light Recovery in Angleton offers many great addiction treatment programs in Houston to help with marijuana dependency. These programs include:
- Residential addiction treatment program
- Medical detox program
- Aftercare program
- Intensive outpatient program
If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction or substance abuse, help is available. You can call Serenity Light Recovery toll-free at 855.658.6109 and learn more about the effective solutions we have to help. We have a long history of helping Texas families overcome addiction and improve their lives.
