What are the long-term effects of smoking weed?
In this article, we will find out the 7 effects of smoking weed. Smoking weed is bad for your health, which is why we advise you to avoid it. Choose the path of a healthy life, think soberly and adequately.
Effects of long term weed smoking
Respiratory system: It contains the same cancer-causing chemicals which are present in tobacco. This increases the risk of chronic respiratory disease and lung cancer in heavy cannabis users. There is an increased incidence of emphysema of the lungs resulting in the formation of air-filled bullae. Chronic abuse of marijuana results in lowering of the efficacy of immune cells in the lungs, resulting in a higher risk of lung infections.
Reproductive system: Chronic weed smokers have reduced sperm count in semen. It is associated with a reduction in testosterone levels in the blood. In females, it affects the menstrual cycle by reducing gonadotropic hormones. It increases the risk of infertility in both sexes. There is also an increased incidence of testicular cancer in chronic weed smokers. Non-seminomatous germ cell tumors of the testis have been reported. It is probably related to the presence of cannabinoid receptors in the testis and also in these tumors.
Pregnancy and lactation: The use of cannabis for many weeks during pregnancy was found to result in a reduction in the length of gestation, though it did not affect the birth weight of the child. Exposure of infants to tetrahydrocannabinol present in breast milk was found to delay motor development at one year of age. This study was conducted at the Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle.
Intelligence: A reduction in academic performance has been reported in college students after chronic abuse of marijuana. Cannabis can produce impairment in the higher cognitive functions like memory, attention, and organization. There is also an impairment of the ability of the brain to integrate complex information.
Psychiatric illness: There is a higher incidence of psychiatric impairment in people after prolonged use of weed. It may result in psychosis, manifesting as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. An anxiety disorder may also occur, which is characterized by the occurrence of panic attacks, which are based on ill-defined and disorganized fears. The appearance of anxiety symptoms is dose-dependent. Chronic use is also associated with mood disorders presenting with depression.
Sleep disorder: Sleep disorders have been reported in chronic smokers of weed. It reduces REM or ‘Rapid eye movement’ part of sleep which is associated with dreams. It resolves after cessation of its use.
Amotivational syndrome: It is characterized by a reduction in persistence to perform a task. The person loses interest, becomes apathetic, and lacks energy and drive. There is an impairment of motivation and social performance.
Chronic weed smokers are at increased risk of many diseases or disorders listed above. The majority of these addicts are young teens, who lose control and require proper guidance and protection. Positive support from family and friends is required for treatment and prevention of failures. Hopefully, these 7 long-term effects of smoking weed are enough to keep you from smoking weed.