If a person experiences an allergic reaction to marijuana, they could experience the same types of allergy symptoms as with pollen, bee stings, or other common allergens. You may develop skin rashes or hives or difficulty breathing and throat problems. For many people, these reactions do not depend on how they come into contact with marijuana. This means they could have allergic reactions if they smoke it, eat it, or even touch it. Not all experts agree on exactly what causes allergic reactions, but anyone experiencing a reaction should seek immediate medical attention.
The signs of an allergic reaction to marijuana are similar to some of the same types of allergic reactions to other allergens. Common skin problems include itching, rashes, and hives. People have also reported wheezing, a sore and swollen throat, and sinusitis. Extreme cases include nausea and vomiting, chest tightness, and anxiety attacks and intestinal cramps. Some patients have even reported flu-like symptoms, including body aches, chills, and fatigue.
Smoking marijuana might not be the only way to experience an allergic reaction. Some people have reported reactions to touching the plant. People who use marijuana in other ways have also reported allergic reactions. For example, a person who injects liquids or eats food with marijuana in it may experience an allergic reaction.
Some experts believe that this type of allergic reaction is not entirely surprising, given that marijuana is a plant and plants are allergens for many people. Others speculate that the reaction is not actually caused by the marijuana, but rather by whatever chemicals are used to grow it. Since some people use pesticides and other chemicals while growing marijuana, some people may have a reaction to these chemicals.
Whenever a person experiences any type of allergic reaction to an unknown substance, or for an unknown reason, they should seek medical attention. Smoking marijuana can make a person hesitant to seek medical treatment, but like other types of allergic reactions, one to marijuana can become dangerous. While some allergy symptoms go away on their own, others require prescription medication. Skin rashes can go away within a few hours, for example, but chest tightening and shortness of breath can be life-threatening.