special subjects
Marijuana
Symptoms of Marijuana Intoxication
Marijuana causes immediate and sometimes long-term symptoms. Marijuana slows brain activity, producing a dreamy state in which ideas seem disconnected and free-flowing. It is mildly psychedelic, causing time, color, and spatial perceptions to distort and be enhanced. Colors may seem brighter, and sounds may seem louder. The sense of euphoria and relaxation is called a high. Marijuana generally relieves tension and provides a sense of well-being. The sense of exaltation, excitement, and inner joyousness (a high) seems to be related to the setting in which the drug is taken—such as whether the person is alone or in a group and what the prevailing mood is. Coordination, reaction time, depth perception, and concentration may be impaired for 24 hours after marijuana use, so driving or operating heavy equipment is dangerous during this time. Other effects include an increased heart rate, bloodshot eyes, increased appetite, and dry mouth. These effects usually last 4 to 6 hours after inhalation. Some people, especially those who have not used marijuana before, experience anxiety or feel panicky or paranoid. Marijuana may worsen or trigger psychosis (loss of contact with reality) in people with Schizophrenia . People who use large quantities of marijuana for a long time may develop breathing problems such as Bronchitis Wheezing Coughing Increased phlegm Abdominal pain and cyclic vomiting syndrome However, people who smoke marijuana do not develop obstructive airway disease, even those who smoke daily. There is no evidence of increased risk of head and neck or airway cancers, as there is with tobacco. Recent studies suggest that marijuana use begun in adolescence can lead to cognitive impairment and changes in the brain. Cannabinoid hyperemesis is a recently described syndrome in which long-time users of marijuana have alternating bouts of nausea and vomiting. The syndrome usually resolves within 48 hours. Taking hot baths provides some relief and is the biggest clue for doctors to diagnose the condition. Some studies show that women who smoke marijuana are less likely to conceive. Those who become pregnant may have smaller babies than nonusers, but the effect seems small. Delta-9-THC passes into breast milk, but no harmful effects have been detected in babies. Nonetheless, women who are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding are advised not to use marijuana. Men who smoke marijuana frequently have a reduced sperm count, resulting in a possible decrease in fertility. Marijuana is eliminated from the body slowly over several weeks, so withdrawal symptoms tend to be mild. After a few weeks of heavy, frequent use, abruptly stopping causes symptoms that begin about 12 hours later and last up to 7 days. Symptoms include Insomnia Irritability Depression Nausea Loss of appetite 