As we age, our bodies become more sensitive to various substances, and Indian hemp is no exception.
For those who are over the age of 50, cannabis can have surprising and often detrimental effects.
Understanding these impacts is important for making informed decisions about its use and safeguarding your health.
According to experts, here are some nasty effects you may likely encounter if you smoke marijuana after you turn 50.
Cognitive impairment
According to experts at Mayo Clinic, cannabis use might worsen existing memory and thinking problems.
“Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a cannabinoid found in cannabis, slows thinking, making it harder to remember things which impacts daily tasks,” Dr. Brent A. Bauer tells Mayo Clinic.
Increased heart rate
Older adults with heart problems should be cautious with cannabis, as THC causes increased heart rate. This puts them at higher risk for a heart attack or stroke. The increased heart rate can also worsen anxiety.
High blood pressure
According to Medical News Today, consuming cannabis may raise blood pressure, which is particularly dangerous for seniors already managing hypertension.
Heightened blood pressure increases cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks and strokes, and complicates the management of existing heart conditions.
Respiratory issues
National Institutes of Health (NIH) notes that smoking cannabis irritates the lungs, leading to chronic bronchitis and other respiratory problems.
For seniors with reduced lung capacity or existing respiratory conditions, this can result in severe breathing difficulties and exacerbate conditions like COPD or asthma.
Balance and coordination problems
Cannabis affects balance and coordination, increasing the risk of falls, according to Medical News Today.
Older adults, especially those with bone density issues such as osteoporosis, are more likely to suffer severe injuries from falls, including fractures and head injuries, which can have long-term consequences.
Mood swings
While cannabis can provide temporary relief from anxiety or depression, it can also cause mood swings and emotional instability. This complicates the management of mental health issues in seniors.
According to Ottawa Public Health, older adults can experience loneliness, isolation, depression or loss. Using cannabis to cope could make mental health challenges worse. Regular use can lead to a cannabis use disorder or dependence.
Paranoia and anxiety
American Medical Association warns that THC heightens feelings of paranoia and anxiety, making it harder for older adults to manage these conditions.
It is particularly concerning for those with a history of mental health issues, as it causes stress and discomfort.
“THC-containing products directly affect the brain. That can increase risk for anxiety or even paranoia and other types of psychosis,” AMA warns.
Interaction with medications
WebMD warns that cannabis interacts with medications commonly prescribed to seniors, including blood thinners, sedatives, and diabetes medications.
“These interactions may cause adverse reactions, reduce drug effectiveness, and complicate the management of chronic conditions,” physicians warn.
Dizziness and lightheadedness
Cannabis use can cause dizziness and lightheadedness, which increases fall risk and related injuries in older adults.
The sensations can be particularly unsettling and dangerous, especially for those with already compromised balance or mobility.
Researchers add that studies found that up to 60 percent of marijuana patients experienced moderate to severe dizziness.
Sleep disturbances
While some use cannabis to help with sleep, it disrupts sleep patterns and causes poor-quality sleep. This results in fatigue and decreased daytime alertness and impacts overall health and daily functioning.
According to Dr. Richard Crabbe, a psychiatrist, “Studies have concluded that marijuana exacerbates sleep disturbances that ultimately lead to insomnia.
“Though cannabis consumption may alleviate specified medical conditions, improving sleep patterns is not among the benefits.
This fact may come as a surprise to numerous medical and recreational consumers who cite sleeping disorders as their means for consumption.”
Appetite changes
Changes in appetite can occur with cannabis use, leading to either overeating or a reduced interest in food. Weight loss or gain can be problematic for seniors, potentially bringing nutritional deficiencies or exacerbating existing health conditions.
Dry mouth and dental issues
Dry mouth commonly results from consuming cannabis. It contributes to dental issues like tooth decay and gum disease. In older adults, compromised oral health can significantly affect overall well-being, heightening the risk of infections and other complications.
Dependency
Older adults can develop a dependency on cannabis, and withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, lack of sleep, and loss of appetite are experienced when trying to quit. The dependency on cannabis complicates other health issues.
Fatigue
Prolonged fatigue from cannabis and chronic tiredness decrease physical activity. Hence, poses challenges for older adults to stay engaged in daily activities.
Impaired motor skills
Impaired motor skills from cannabis use affect the ability to perform everyday tasks safely, presenting particular risks for seniors who need to drive, operate machinery, or navigate their homes without injury.
With reports from Housely.
