The Effects of Cannabis Use on Cardiovascular Health

Introduction

Since cannabis is now fully legal in California, it is used more frequently for relaxation, pain relief, or medical treatment. This piece aims to discuss how cannabis and CBD affect heart health, detailing the risks, potential benefits, and considerations for heart patients. The question still remains, what is the effect of cannabis and CBD on heart health? Some studies indicate there are benefits, while others outline serious health complications, especially for those with cardiovascular issues.

Effects of Cannabis on The Cardiovascular System

Cannabis consists of two major compounds: THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). Both interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system but in different manners. Depending on the case, CBD is considered to be therapeutic and non-psychoactive, while THC is a psychoactive compound that is known to cause significant changes in heart rate and blood pressure. Further research is required to fully understand the impact of dosage, frequency, and consumption method on the cardiovascular effects of cannabis.

Effects on Heart Function in the Retail Setting

– Elevation of Heart Rate (Tachycardia): THC has the propensity to increase heart rate significantly, sometimes from 20 to 50 beats per minute faster than normal.

This effect can last for up to three hours, increasing the possibility of palpitations, arrhythmias, and even heart attacks in vulnerable patients.

– Fluctuation of Blood Pressure: The use of cannabis can lead to increased blood pressure, and after some time, it can lower drastically (orthostatic hypotension), causing a person to feel lightheaded, faint, or lose consciousness.

– Reduction of Oxygen Supply: Smoking cannabis as well as tobacco decreases the amount of oxygen that is supplied to the heart. This is extremely dangerous for people suffering from coronary artery disease.

Risks of Cardiovascular Disease in the Future

1. Atherosclerosis Risk: Research has shown that some chronic users of cannabis tend to have more plaque build up in the arteries, which raises their risk for stroke or heart disease.

2. Risk of Myocardial Infarction Heightening (Heart Attack): The use of cannabis is associated with higher chances of a heart attack, especially in younger adults who, with little exception, are considered low risk.

3. Possible Arrhythmia or Sudden Cardiac Events: Constant cannabis use has been associated with increased abnormal heart rhythms frequence and could be fatal for people with heart problems.

4. Substantial Interaction with other Drugs: The use of both THC and CBD can interact with other common cardiovascular medications such as blood thinners, beta-blockers, or statins. amplifying or slowing down the effectiveness of these medications.

Can CBD Help with Heart Health?

Research has been conducted on the potential cardiovascular advantages of CBD, which does not produce psychoactive effects like THC. Some studies suggest that CBD may:

– Lower Blood Pressure: Some studies suggest that CBD could reduce the high blood pressure that is common with anxiety and stress.

– Reduce Inflammation: Chronic inflammation is a leading cause of heart disease, and CBD may assist in reducing inflammation due to its anti-inflamatory properties.

– As an Antioxidant: Some studies suggest CBD may reduce oxidative stress which plays a part in developing cardiovascular diseases.

– Aid in Post-Heart Attack Recovery: Some animal studies showed that CBD may reduce harm to the heart after a heart attack and help the heart function better after a cardiac event. However, there is a lack of human trial data.

Risks of Mixing CBD With Heart Medications

Although there may be benefits, CBD is not risk-free for those using heart medications. Some interactions to keep in mind are:

– Warfarin (Blood thinners): CBD could increase the amount of warfarin in the body which increases the chances of bleeding too much.

– Beta-Blockers: CBD may change how beta-blockers are broken down, impacting heart rate control.

– Statins: CBD might affect the liver enzymes that metabolizes cholesterol lowering drugs which may be harmful.

Risks and Considerations of Cannabis Use for Heart Patients

If you have a heart condition, some aspects of cannabis and CBD use may be not as simple. Here’s what you need to know:

– Always Talk to Your Cardiologist: Never use any medication or supplement that interacts with cannabis or CBD without discussing the matter with your doctor first. This is especially critical in cases of high blood pressure, heart disease, and heart medications.

– Do Not Smoke or Vape: Methods of inhalation are generally harmful to the cardiovascular system. For cannabis product consumption, consider tinctures, edibles, or topical applications instead.

– Monitoring of Blood Pressure and Heart Rate is Essential: Note and report any cardiovascular changes after consumption to your healthcare provider.

– Consider Low-THC High-CBD Strains: If cannabis consumption is imperative, some strains are less harmful when it comes to cardiovascular health compared to others.

– Avoid Dehydration and Stimulants: Taking in dehydrating substances such as caffeine can put more strain on the cardiovascular system.

Conclusion

When it comes to heart health, cannabis and CBD use seems far more complex. While there’s research supporting the potential cardiovascular benefits of CBD, THC active cannabis may not be so forgiving, especially to people suffering from precursory heart conditions.

The usage of cannabis and CBD can be tricky and patients must take care to seek the opinion of a healthcare professional before incorporating either into their routine. Like all research, this field is evolving so make sure to stay up to date with the latest information on science and heart health.