While it is rare, some people are allergic to cannabis and may experience adverse reactions if they smoke, eat, or touch the substance. These allergies go beyond recreational marijuana and can include hemp-seed, which crops up in many foods and cosmetic products.
It’s important to be aware of the symptoms of a marijuana allergy before dabbling in THC or CBD products for the first time.
What Are the Symptoms of Marijuana Allergies?
Those who use marijuana for the first time and notice strange physical symptoms may immediately assume a negative THC reaction is to blame, but the culprit could be an underlying allergy.
Allergic reactions to marijuana are sometimes critical, with cases of anaphylaxis typically arising from exposure to hempseed. However, many reactions are mild and cause symptoms similar to other food or environmental allergens, such as:
- Skin irritation and rashes
- Respiratory issues such as wheezing, shortness of breath, and other asthmatic symptoms
- Sneezing and runny nose
- Swelling and watery, itchy eyes
- Headaches and general malaise
The cannabis-induced rash, sometimes called marijuana contact dermatitis, is the most common symptom in those allergic to marijuana.
Who Is at Risk of Marijuana Sensitivity?
These symptoms may appear if someone who is allergic ingests marijuana through smoking or eating an edible. They can also arise with exposure to hempseed, which tends to result in more severe reactions. Some people in the southwestern states experience cannabis sensitization symptoms when the airborne dissemination of cannabis pollen begins.
Others may experience cross-reactivity with plants that share allergens or proteins with cannabis, including tomatoes, peaches, and hazelnuts. If you have an existing allergy to any of these plants, it’s vital to avoid cannabis products to prevent a reaction.
How Is It Diagnosed and Treated?
If you think you’re allergic to marijuana, visit a doctor before continuing to use any cannabis products.
Diagnoses of cannabis allergy largely rely on patient history and an examination of symptoms. Allergy tests involving traditional prick methods can be useful for predicting sensitivities, but they are not standardized and may not always offer reliable results.
Treatment options for cannabis allergies largely focus on avoidance. This is especially important for those allergic to hemp seeds, given the risk of anaphylaxis. Antihistamines can help treat the symptoms of mild reactions, and prescribed creams may soothe persistent rashes.
It is critical to seek medical advice if you experience recurrent or severe symptoms of cannabinoid hypersensitivity. While a cannabis allergy is often nothing to worry about, it can be dangerous if your sensitivity includes hemp seeds. If you’re having trouble breathing beyond mild lung irritation from vaping or smoking, seek emergency medical help immediately.
Some people only experience reactions to certain forms of cannabis and may be able to enjoy other products without a noticeable reaction. Always consult a medical professional first before trying new substances, medically or recreationally.
Learn More About the Effects of Cannabis
If you are new to cannabis products, it might be helpful to consult your local dispensary about the effects of the drug so you know what to expect. Smoking or ingesting too much can cause issues such as coughing, nausea, anxiety, and altered heart rate that may feel scarily like an allergic reaction. It’s important to be prepared and understand the difference between allergy symptoms and common reactions.
Call Cannabis & Glass at (541) 907-1234 or visit our location in Ontario, Oregon, to learn more about the different kinds of cannabis products and get advice on the appropriate dosages for beginners. Our friendly experts can advise you on what normal reactions may include and provide top-quality cannabis, smoking devices, and storage containers.
If you are allergic to marijuana, steer clear of CBD and THC products.
