How does maurijuana affect the body?
Effects on the Brain
- Impaired memory and learning. Marijuana can temporarily impair memory and learning, especially when used heavily. This is because it interferes with the communication of nerve cells in the hippocampus, a brain region involved in memory formation and consolidation.
- Altered perception and mood. Marijuana can alter perception, mood, and behavior. It can produce feelings of euphoria, relaxation, and sociability, as well as anxiety, paranoia, and impaired judgment. These effects are thought to be due to the interaction of THC with the brain's reward system, which is involved in pleasure and motivation.
- Increased risk of mental illness. Some studies suggest that marijuana use may increase the risk of developing mental illnesses such as schizophrenia and psychosis, especially in people who are already at risk for these disorders. However, more research is needed to confirm this association.
Effects on the Cardiovascular System
- Increased heart rate. Marijuana can increase the heart rate by 20 to 50 beats per minute, which can be dangerous for people with heart disease. This effect is thought to be due to the activation of the sympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the body's "fight or flight" response.
- Increased risk of heart attack and stroke. Some studies suggest that marijuana use may increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes, especially in people who use it heavily and/or have other risk factors for these diseases. However, more research is needed to confirm this association.
Effects on the Respiratory System
- Bronchitis and other respiratory problems. Marijuana smoke contains many of the same harmful chemicals as tobacco smoke, and it can cause bronchitis, emphysema, and other respiratory problems.
- Increased risk of lung cancer. Some studies suggest that marijuana use may increase the risk of lung cancer, but the evidence is not as strong as it is for tobacco smoke. More research is needed to confirm this association.
Effects on the Reproductive System
- Male reproductive problems. Marijuana use can lower sperm count and motility, and it can also cause erectile dysfunction.
- Female reproductive problems. Marijuana use can disrupt the menstrual cycle and it may also increase the risk of infertility.
Other Effects
- Weight gain. Marijuana can increase appetite, and it can lead to weight gain. This is thought to be due to the activation of the CB1 receptors in the brain, which are involved in regulating hunger and satiety.
- Increased risk of accidents. Marijuana use can impair coordination and judgment, which can increase the risk of accidents, such as car crashes and falls.
- Addiction. Marijuana is not as addictive as some other drugs, such as heroin and cocaine, but it can still lead to addiction. People who use marijuana heavily may develop a tolerance to the drug, which means that they need to use more and more of it to get the same effects. They may also experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop using marijuana, such as anxiety, irritability, and insomnia.