Smoking Too Much Weed? Here’s What Can Happen

Introduction

Many assume that using weed is harmless and poses very little risk to your overall health. Yes, cannabis does not pose the same risks that other substances might, however, it is not harmless. Learn what can happen if you smoke too much weed. It can result in many adverse effects and cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome. An estimated 2.7 million Americans suffer from bouts of cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS). CHS causes vomiting and pain to those who use heavy amounts of weed. Although this condition is rare, there have been increased cases of it as a result of marijuana legalization. Moreover, if you use too much marijuana you may experience increased “white-outs” and hallucinations.

What is Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS)?

CHS is a condition that results in repeated, severe bouts of vomiting. This condition is often only found in long-term weed users who use the drug on a daily basis. CHS is a result of the complex effect marijuana has on your body. Generally, weed has opposite effects on the brain and body. In the brain, marijuana actually helps prevent vomiting (which makes it good for chemotherapy patients). Weed’s effect on the stomach, however, can cause you to experience nausea and vomiting. With repeated weed use, certain brain receptors stop responding to marijuana the same way. This means the brain may stop sending signals to your stomach to not be nauseous. This ultimately can cause CHS. That being said, experts are still trying to pinpoint what exactly causes CHS.

Can You Overdose?

Using too much of any substance is dangerous, even drinking too much water. Smoking too much weed is no different. Although you cannot die from a weed overdose, using too much marijuana can cause many unpleasant side effects. Here are some ways in which using too much weed can negatively affect you:

1. Too much marijuana use resulting in tremors

Using too much weed can cause tremors or shakes. While there are no formal studies discussing tremors caused by weed, many users have said that their weed use has resulted in the shakes.

2. Weed use, at any capacity, can cause paranoia

Paranoia can be a result of weed use. It is well documented that cannabis use can cause paranoia and, if the user is depressed or anxious, the paranoia is more likely to be worse.

3. Weed use causing a “white-out”

Using too much weed can result in a “white-out”. A white-out is a side effect of acute cannabis intoxication. It is called “whiting out” as the color drains from your face followed by vomiting and even temporary unconsciousness. Although the symptoms don’t last particularly long, the experience is distressing and painful.

4. Weed induced psychosis 

Most worrisomely, too much weed use can cause psychosis. Psychosis refers to episodes of hallucinations, delusions, and disturbed thoughts. Those experiencing psychosis also tend to have a lack of insight and self-awareness. Instances of weed-induced psychosis are much more common among younger people and ethnic minorities. Moreover, there has been a reported 2-fold increase in the risk of developing a psychotic disorder in weed users as compared to non-weed users.

5. Marijuana use can cause heart disturbances

Some doctors believe that heart arrhythmias can be caused by weed use. Although it is hard to isolate the cause of heart disturbances if someone is drinking and smoking weed, there is still a risk that weed use can cause issues with your heart. Overall, it is apparent that using weed too much, like anything, has negative effects and potential risks. Much about marijuana is still unknown, so remaining wary of your use is integral in avoiding any risks associated with weed. Like any other substance, the best way to avoid risks and unwanted repercussions is to abstain from use.

Quitting Weed at NuView Treatment Center

If you are interested in quitting weed and require more support, NuView Treatment Center can help make the process as painless as possible. NuView Treatment Center is an outpatient rehab Los Angeles that offers a wide range of treatment programs. NuView offers outpatient addiction treatment that is designed to give you the tools you need to recover from both dependence and addiction. The staff is trained to develop individualized treatment plans for each client and assist with addressing underlying conditions (including mental health disorders) that may be motivating your drug or alcohol use. With assistance from the professionals at NuView, you can begin to develop the necessary skills and tools to cope with life without marijuana. Through NuView’s compassion evidence-based therapeutic methods, you can begin to heal and achieve long-term sobriety.