When Weed Attacks! The (Very) Common Side Effects of THC and (Very) Easy Tips to Handle Them
Any cannabis user knows the three ways their experience can go: feeling very little effect, finding just the right “high,” or in some cases – too much! At Cannabicity in Schenectady, your local budtenders can help avoid the outliers and find your cannabis sweet spot, with the aid of some time and experimentation. But let’s talk about what happens when the hit doesn’t go the way you’d hoped.
Common Side Effects of THC
THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the primary psychoactive compound found in cannabis. While it offers numerous therapeutic benefits, it can also cause some side effects. Understanding these six common side effects and knowing how to manage them can enhance your experience and ensure responsible use.
1. Dry Mouth (or “cottonmouth”)
Dry mouth is a frequent side effect of THC use. It occurs because THC interacts with the endocannabinoid receptors in the salivary glands, reducing saliva production.
What to Do:
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. You’re going to be thirsty for a little while.
Chew sugar-free gum or suck on hard candy to stimulate saliva production.
Avoid caffeine and alcohol, as they can exacerbate dry mouth. Plus, it’s not recommended to mix other stimulant or depressant effects with cannabis!
2. Red Eyes
Red eyes are caused by THC-induced dilation of blood vessels and capillaries in the eyes, leading to increased blood flow and—you guessed it—redness.
What to Do:
Use over-the-counter eye drops designed to reduce redness.
Stay hydrated, as it can help alleviate this symptom.
Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from bright light and reduce redness.
3. Increased Heart Rate
Some users experience an increased heart rate after consuming THC. This can be unsettling, especially for those with heart conditions.
What to Do:
Sit down and relax in a comfortable environment.
Practice deep breathing exercises to help calm your heart rate.
Consider using lower doses of THC in the future to minimize this effect.
4. Paranoia and Anxiety
High doses of THC can sometimes lead to paranoia and anxiousness, especially in inexperienced users or those prone to anxiety
What to Do:
Find a calm, safe place to relax. Your friends might be some help in this regard, or you may choose to identify this outlet beforehand.
Engage in calming activities such as listening to music or meditating.
Use CBD-rich strains or products, as CBD can counteract the anxiety-inducing effects of THC.
5. Dizziness and Lightheadedness
Some users may feel dizzy or lightheaded after consuming THC, particularly when standing up quickly.
What to Do:
Sit or lie down until the dizziness passes.
Drink water and eat a light snack to stabilize your blood sugar levels.
Move slowly when changing positions to avoid sudden dizziness.
6. Short-Term Memory Impairment
Short-term memory impairment is a common side effect of THC, affecting your ability to recall recent events or information.
What to Do:
Use THC in a safe environment where you don’t need to remember important information.
Consider using strains with a balanced THC-to-CBD ratio, as CBD can mitigate some of the cognitive effects of THC.
Limit your THC intake to avoid significant memory issues.
Always consult with a healthcare professional before using THC for medicinal or recreational purposes, especially if you are new to its use or have underlying health conditions. Use cannabis responsibly and in accordance with local laws and regulations.
Conclusion
While THC offers numerous benefits, being aware of its common side effects and knowing how to manage them can protect and enhance your experience, and ensure safe and responsible use. Remember to start low, go slow, and prioritize your well-being.