Research has indicated a connection between certain compounds found in cannabis and an increased risk of heart failure, atrial fibrillation, and heart attacks. Regular weed use can alter heart function, potentially leading to complications such as cardiac disease.

Scientific studies have shown that cannabis use can elevate the risk of cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks.

Weed consumption can cause an immediate increase in heart rate and blood pressure, putting a strain on the circulatory system.

Over time, this can result in a decline in cardiac health. Additionally, the smoke inhaled while using cannabis introduces harmful chemicals into the body, further damaging the lungs and cardiovascular system.

This dispenseroO.club article explores the relationship between cannabis and heart health, the effects of cannabis consumption on the heart, and ways individuals can maintain their cardiovascular health.

Is there a correlation between cannabis and heart health?

Cannabis use can lead to heart health issues. Research has shown that daily cannabis users are approximately 34% more likely to develop coronary artery disease (CAD) compared to non-users.

Compared to those who reported never using cannabis, studies have found that daily cannabis users have a 34% higher risk of heart failure.

These studies also suggest that individuals who develop heart failure due to cannabis use often initially develop CAD, which eventually leads to heart failure.

What is the impact of cannabis on the heart?

Cannabis vapour may contain polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, which are compounds known to cause cancer.

Immediately after consuming weed, individuals typically experience an increase in pulse rate and blood pressure. These effects can elevate the risk of coronary events and increase the heart’s workload.

Smoking cannabis, especially when combined with tobacco, can further exacerbate the risk of coronary artery disease (CAD) and other cardiac complications.

Potential Risks

Individuals with pre-existing conditions that make them susceptible to cardiac disease or failure, such as diabetes or high cholesterol levels, may face heightened risks from cannabis use.

Most people smoke cannabis, often mixing it with tobacco. Like tobacco smoke, cannabis smoke can introduce numerous harmful substances into the body. This can lead to various complications in the cardiovascular system and the airways.

Read more on the duration of THC’s presence in the human body

Three major risk factors for the development of cardiac disease are high cholesterol, tobacco smoking, and high blood pressure, regardless of an individual’s age.

Potential Advantages

Cannabis can be used therapeutically to alleviate a variety of physical and mental conditions, including:

• Pain management
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Epilepsy
• Inflammatory bowel disease and inflammatory bowel syndrome
• Cancer and nausea associated with cancer treatment
• Multiple sclerosis
• Insomnia
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

However, trusted sources indicate that cannabis can have numerous adverse effects. It is recommended that individuals only use cannabis when prescribed by a physician and strictly follow their medical advice.

The effects of smoking on the heart

Smoking significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular disease by introducing various harmful compounds into the body. These compounds raise the likelihood of developing several ailments, including cancer and coronary artery disease (CAD).

The chemicals in tobacco cause the walls of the arteries to become sticky, allowing fatty materials to adhere and form clogs. This can disrupt blood flow, leading to potential blockages in the arteries that supply blood to the heart. Such blockages can result in heart attacks, which are life-threatening and can also lead to other heart conditions like atrial fibrillation or heart failure.

Moreover, smoking heightens the risk of blood clotting, increases blood pressure, and elevates heart rate. These factors collectively place a substantial burden on the cardiovascular system, significantly increasing the risk of cardiac events.

Read more on Weed Vs. Booze: Which one is less harmful to your health?

Achieving an optimal heart health

Individuals can implement several measures to optimise their cardiovascular health, including:

• Physical Exercise: Engaging in 75 minutes of vigorous exercise or 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly can enhance cardiovascular and heart health.
• Weight Management: Obesity increases the risk of cardiac conditions. Maintaining a moderate weight can reduce the heart’s workload.
• Balanced Diet: Consuming a variety of fruits and vegetables and limiting sugary, oily, and deep-fried foods can help maintain low cholesterol levels and prevent artery clogging.
• Refraining from Smoking: Smoking is a known risk factor for heart disease. Quitting smoking reduces the risk of CAD and provides numerous health benefits. This applies to both cigarette and cannabis smoking.
• Managing Other Health Conditions: Treating underlying conditions like diabetes, high cholesterol, and hypertension can reduce the risk of coronary artery disease (CAD).

Summary

Cannabis use can increase heart rate and blood pressure, potentially leading to coronary artery disease and other cardiac issues with prolonged use. Numerous studies have shown a correlation between cannabis use and an elevated risk of heart failure.

Smoking cannabis introduces toxic chemicals into the body, increasing the risk of heart disease, strokes, and heart attacks.

Read more on understanding the impact of cannabis vs nicotine on human body

 

Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using any THC product.