|
What is Marijuana?
Marijuana , also known as pot, weed, grass or herb, comes from the hemp plant called Cannabis sativa. The leaves and flowers are dried and then smoked or cooked to activate the chemicals and eaten. The most commonly used drug, marijuana's most potent chemical is THC or delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol which has a psychoactive, mind-altering effect.
What are the Symptoms of Marijuana Addiction?
The symptoms of marijuana use are difficult to hide. Symptoms include:
- Silliness and giggling with little reason
- Red and bloodshot eyes
- Lack of short-term memory
- Lack of motivation
- Inability to make sense of basic concepts or conversations
- Drowsiness
- Increased appetite
- Impaired ability to drive or use machinery
- Panic attacks and paranoia
Unlike other substances, marijuana is not physically addictive but users can build a physical tolerance to its active chemicals, needing more and more to reach a certain high or feeling of relaxation. Chronic use is also mentally and emotionally addictive so that users have little interest in doing anything without first using the drug.
The long-term effects of marijuana include hormonal changes in both men and women including infertility, increased cancer risk, heart disease, higher blood pressure, and diminished sexual interest. Men show lower sperm count and decreased testosterone while women show an increase in testosterone.
What are the Symptoms of Marijuana Detox?
Marijuana detox symptoms in chronic users first appear within 24 hours of last usage. The first week to 10 days are the most difficult. Symptoms of detox may last up to a month and they include:
- Mood swings between irritability and anxiety
- Physical tension
- Decreased appetite
Because marijuana addiction is primarily emotional and mental it is especially important that chronic users have professional assistance throughout their detox. Therapy, counseling, and detox centers are just a few ways in which marijuana addicts can find the help and support they need to successfully detox. |
