Medicinal use of Cannabis is growing, owing to its healing abilities. Many people in Florida are turning towards Cannabis to find relief from symptoms of chronic pain, stress, anxiety, tremors and others. Recent studies and patient testimonials have shown that it can cause relaxation, improve sleep and overall anxiety; however, effects vary between different people. Cannabis can impact people differently, and it can cause some unwanted side effects in some people. Hence, the Florida Medical Marijuana program stipulates that every patient see a state-certified doctor before using any form of Cannabis.
This article talks about how and does weed causes panic attacks, what causes them, warning signs, and useful ways to stop them. It also gives details on the qualifying conditions for MMJ Card in Florida, and how you can get Marijuana products from, especially for Florida patients who are looking into medical marijuana through the dispensaries in Florida.
Schedule your appointment today for Medical Marijuana Card in Florida with My Florida Green’s certified doctors.
What is a panic attack?
A panic attack is a sudden wave of strong fear or discomfort that lasts for a few minutes. It can have both physical and mental symptoms, such as:
- Heart racing or tightness in the chest
- Feeling dizzy or short of breath
- Shaking, sweating, or trembling
- A feeling of losing control or impending doom
- Derealization: not being able to connect with reality
Panic attacks are not life-threatening, but they can be very scary. If they happen after someone has used cannabis, they might be afraid to use it again. Hence, it is important to take medicinal Marijuana with the guidance of an expert.
Can weed cause panic attacks?
Many patients are curious to know about the details of weed causing panic attacks. The fact is that yes, it can cause a panic attack in some patients if it is taken in large quantities without consulting a doctor. Cannabis has the potential to impact the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which controls mood, stress, and how we feel. The ECS works with two main chemicals in weed:
- THC (tetrahydrocannabinol): This gives a “high” in some patients, increases heart rate and overstimulates the brain’s fear centers.
- Cannabidiol (CBD): This helps manage anxiety and calmness, and it can also help balance out THC to some extent.
Some people may feel very anxious or panicked when THC levels are too high or when the THC-to-CBD ratio is off. Hence, it is not recommended to take any Cannabis product without asking an expert. Only a Certified Medical Marijuana doctor can understand which strain of weed can be safely consumed.
How and why does Marijuana induce panic in some people?
Marijuana can induce very different effects and reactions in people; a dose or strain which works for one person can cause side effects in another. Hence, it needs to be taken carefully with proper guidance. Some main reasons that it may cause panic in some people include:
1. High THC content
Strains that have a lot of THC and not much CBD can overstimulate receptors controlling emotions. This can make some people anxious, scared, paranoid, and can also lead to a panic attack.
2. Low tolerance
People who are new to cannabis or don’t have a high tolerance for THC may have strong reactions to small amounts.
3. Genetic and Psychological Elements
People who have had anxiety, panic attacks, or trauma in the past may be more likely to have marijuana panic attacks because their nervous system is already very sensitive to stress.
4. Eating edibles
Some people take more than they should because edibles, tinctures, and concentrates can give them a lot of THC that takes longer to kick in. The high can be very strong and make you feel panicked once it “kicks in.”
There can be many other reasons also for Cannabis to cause panic attacks in some patients. The main thing to remember is that it should not be taken in large amounts, especially Marijuana with high THC content. To understand which strain to use, you must consult with an experienced Marijuana doctor.
Who is most at risk of panic attacks with Marijuana?
Anyone can feel panic after using cannabis, but some things make it more likely:
- People who are new to the site or who haven’t been there in a while.
- People who already have anxiety or panic disorders.
- People who smoke high-THC strains without balancing them with CBD.
- People who use cannabis when they are stressed out or in unpredictable situations.
- People who mix weed with alcohol, caffeine, or other stimulants.
For people with PTSD, generalized anxiety, or chronic stress, picking the right strain and getting medical supervision are very important.
How to take Marijuana safely?
The most important thing is to always take Marijuana with the guidance of an expert. You must also remember the following:
1. Start slow and low
Use small amounts, especially when trying a new strain or method, like edibles. Give the effects time to kick in before you eat more.
2. Find a balance between THC and CBD
Marijuana with less CBD and more THC can cause problems. Look for strains that have a good balance of THC and CBD, or try products that are high in CBD to help with anxiety.
3. Stay hydrated and grounded
If you start to feel anxious, drink water, eat something, and focus on breathing slowly. Touching cool surfaces and focusing on your breath are two physical grounding techniques that can help calm racing thoughts.
4. Always talk to a doctor who is certified to give marijuana
If you live in Florida and use medical cannabis, you should see a doctor who is certified by the state and can recommend the right strain, dose, and form for your health issue.
5. Buy from licensed dispensaries
To make sure the potency and purity are always the same, only buy from licensed dispensaries in Florida. Licensed dispensaries have products which are correctly labelled with THC and CBD content, tested in labs and free from contamination.
How can you buy high-quality products from Florida Dispensaries?
Once you have completed Marijuana certification and have received your Medical Marijuana Card, you can legally buy Cannabis from licensed dispensaries. Some popular choices are:
- Trulieve
- Curaleaf
- Verano’s MÜV
- Cannabis Care in Fluent
- Wellness at Surterra
- Sanctuary Cannabis in Naples
These dispensaries sell products that have been tested in a lab and have clear THC/CBD ratios. This helps lower the risk of weed causing panic attacks because of bad dosing.
Some important points to avoid side effects when taking Marijuana
Cannabis can be very useful as a therapeutic agent, but it doesn’t work for everyone. For some people, the same plant that helps with pain and anxiety can also cause short-term panic or fear if not used carefully. The key is to know your body, make smart choices, and use it responsibly.
Yes, weed can make you have panic attacks, especially if you use it without the recommendation from an experienced doctor or if the THC levels are high. However, you can avoid panic attacks if you take Marijuana responsibly. You should choose balanced strains, start slowly, and talk to a certified medical professional to avoid marijuana panic attacks.
