The use of marijuana is a controversial topic in the United States today. Many researchers feel that marijuana has great medical benefits, while others feel that it has no medical benefits that supersede any conventional drug and has great harm associated with its use. There are several side effects and risks associated with the use of marijuana.
Anxiety
Marijuana may decrease anxiety in very low doses. However, moderate, heavy or chronic usage increases anxiety in those who already suffer from the disease, and creates the disease in otherwise healthy individuals. Anxiety may become so severe that panic attacks may result. People who suffer from panic attacks report the feeling of doom and the feeling that they are dying.
Mental Impairments
Marijuana impairs many areas of the brain and mental function. Users of the drug may have difficulties in performing activities that require concentration such as work or school functions, cooking and driving. Concentration and the ability to effectively communicate are also dampened. Short-term memory is greatly affected, and with chronic or excessive use long-term memories may be forgotten as well.
Paranoia
While not always the case, marijuana often produces feelings of paranoia while under the influence of the drug. The user may feel that she is going to be caught by police, that someone is after her or that she is dying. This symptom usually resides after the effects of the drug wear off, however, with excessive or chronic use this may become a chronic symptom as chemical imbalances in the brain develop.
Cardiovascular Damage
Marijuana is a stimulant that increases heart rate. The normal heart rate for adults is between 60 and 100 beats per minute. A person under the influence of marijuana may experience a heart rate over 100 beats per minute. As a result, the user may experience heart palpitations often described as feeling like the heart is skipping a beat. If the user has pre-existing cardiac disorders, the drug may aggravate them further.
Decreased Central Nervous System Response
While marijuana is classified as a stimulant, it suppresses the central nervous system. Symptoms that may be experienced from central nervous system suppression are drowsiness, fatigue, decreased respiration rate and slurred speech.
