Marijuana is no longer beyond reach. In fact, you can even get a medical marijuana evaluation online. So access is not a problem in the case of marijuana. And with legalization (only under state law), a lot of people have started using it for one purpose or another. But, while most people find puffing a joint, therapeutic, others may actually have an allergic reaction. Yes, you can be allergic to marijuana.
There are different symptoms and causes. Keep reading to find out if you are allergic to marijuana and if there are any alternatives.
Symptoms
Before concluding that you are allergic to ‘marijuana’, it is important that you are aware of its general effects on the body. While a euphoric feeling is normal, watery eyes can be a sign of an allergic reaction. Also, overdosing on marijuana can lead to nausea or vomit. So, be sure that you are on the right dose.
However, if you experience certain symptoms appearing every time you consume marijuana, it’s possible that you are allergic. Here are some common symptoms.
While these symptoms are still on the mild side, some people might need immediate medical attention or it can turn fatal. There are cases of people showing symptoms like heavy breathing, unconsciousness, swollen tongue, and bluish skin. If you or anyone near you is experiencing these symptoms, take them to the nearest hospital as soon as possible. They are possibly suffering from an anaphylactic shock. If not checked immediately, the person can have heart failure, coma, or even death.
If any of these symptoms show up after you consume marijuana, then it is important that you identify the cause. Because sometimes, it is not actually marijuana but other allergens that can be the cause of your symptoms.
Your marijuana can grow mold if not stored or cured in good conditions. In most cases, it is this mold that is the main culprit behind allergic reactions rather than the plant.
Alternative: If you are allergic to mold, consider buying your marijuana from a reputed place. Or avoid consuming it raw or smoking. Rather cook it into an edible or buy a processed product.
Your marijuana allergy could also be due to the pollen produced by the plant. Increased exposure to pollen can increase your sensitivity and make you susceptible to allergies.
Alternative: You can avoid contact with pollen by consuming marijuana in edible forms like concentrates and food recipes.
There are chances that if you have an allergy to a certain type of food or proteins, then you will be allergic to marijuana as well. Some examples of such foods are bananas, tomatoes, almonds, peach, and apples.
This cross-reactivity happens because marijuana and the food that I just mentioned have similar proteins. So, antibodies activated by these food types also activate when you come in contact with marijuana. And you start having an allergic response.
Alternative: If your symptoms are severe, avoid marijuana altogether. Otherwise, try using a different type or method of consumption and see if it works.
If you show any of these symptoms and have existing allergies. It is better to contact your doctor before continuing the use of marijuana. To avoid this all together it is always advised to get a medical marijuana evaluation from licensed doctors. As they can give you a better understanding of this miracle drug.