Pot, or marijuana, is the most commonly abused drug in the United States, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. Pot contains a chemical called THC, which, when smoked, gets into the lungs, blood stream and brain. Long-term use of the drug can have serious effects on the body and brain.
Heart Problems
One of the possible permanent effects of pot is heart problems. People who smoke marijuana, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, often experience an increased heart rate, which can last for many hours. This happens every time they smoke pot. During this time, they are at a greater risk of having a heart attack, which can lead to permanent heart and health problems. Additionally, the NIDA reports that people who smoke pot regularly, especially those who are older, have an increased risk of developing problems with their heart rhythm. A study by The Canadian Medical Association also reports that such heart conditions may be seen in people who use marijuana on a regular basis for medical reasons. In other words, heart problems can occur even when marijuana is ingested in other ways besides smoking.
Lung Damage
The National Institute on Drug Abuse also reports that long-term use of pot can lead to lung damage. This is because marijuana smoke, like cigarette smoke, contains carcinogens. The NIDA points out that people who smoke pot tend to hold the smoke in their lungs for longer than the average cigarette smoker, which can damage lung cells. While there is currently no direct evidence (due to lack of research in the area) that smoking pot causes lung cancer, the NIDA reports that people who smoke marijuana demonstrate the same respiratory problems as cigarette smokers. These include lung infections and respiratory illnesses. This problem is not apparent in populations who ingest marijuana in other ways.
Confused Thinking
There is a link between pot use and cognitive problems, or trouble with thought processing, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. People who smoke marijuana long-term may have more trouble focusing and solving problems. This can permanently affect many aspects of life, including performance at school and work. Cognitive problems associated with marijuana use can occur in people who use marijuana in other ways besides smoking it.
Mental Health Problems
Perhaps one of the most controversial permanent effects of pot is that of mental health problems. A recent study in Current Pharmacological Design reports there is much evidence pointing to a relationship between the long-term effects of smoking pot and increased susceptibility to mental illnesses, such as schizophrenia. However, the study also points to the benefits of marijuana use for this population. The Canadian Medical Association reports that people who are predisposed to psychosis (such as having a family history) may be more vulnerable to developing a permanent condition after using marijuana than someone who doesn't. Mental health problems may also occur in people who use marijuana for medical purposes, or who ingest it through means other than smoke.
Member Comments