Infections trigger a natural reaction from the immune system, we call this reaction a fever. This occurs when the body’s core temperature exceeds 100.5º Fahrenheit, making it challenging for bacteria and viruses to multiply, thus enabling the body to counter infections. Interestingly, cannabinoids, such as those found in marijuana, serve as immunomodulators—they can either stimulate or suppress the immune system.
This makes the relationship between marijuana and body temperature regulation quite intriguing. The primary psychoactive constituent of cannabis, Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), can influence body temperature in various ways. Nonetheless, most studies suggest that significant changes in body temperature due to marijuana are likely only when consumed in exceptionally high doses.
If you are interested in marijuana as a form of alternative medicine please feel free to give us a call or visit us at one of our locations. We are proud to offer same-day medical cards in Florida.
Is Smoking Marijuana With a Fever Dangerous?
At this point, studies that have specifically investigated the effects of smoking cannabis while suffering from a fever, cold, or flu don’t exactly exist. However, it’s plausible to assume that marijuana could potentially alleviate some symptoms while worsening others.
Both illnesses and cannabis impact the respiratory system. Contracting viruses like influenza or rhinovirus, responsible for the common cold, can lead to symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, nasal congestion, and sore throat. As these symptoms predominantly affect the nose, throat, and lungs, medical professionals generally advise against habits like smoking when experiencing them.
Though cannabis smoke contains carcinogens, research findings on its effect on the lungs are inconclusive. Some studies suggest potential harm to the lungs from cannabis use, while others hint at possible benefits from inhaling cannabis.
Cannabis may also intensify symptoms like dehydration, fatigue, dizziness, and nausea. There’s also the possibility of cannabis interacting with certain medications that might be used to alleviate cold or flu symptoms.
It’s crucial to remember that while colds and flu share similarities, they vary significantly in severity, and the medications and remedies used to treat them are different.
Can Smoking Weed Alleviate a Fever?
Due to limited research, it wouldn’t be accurate to say that smoking can alleviate a fever. However, many turn to consuming marijuana to help cope with the uncomfortable aspects of being sick. Some research even suggests that in certain individuals, smoking marijuana can even lower body temperature.
Can Smoking Weed Cause a Fever?
A study published in Drug and Alcohol Dependence demonstrated that THC tends to decrease the body temperatures of laboratory animals. This occurrence of THC-induced hypothermia is attributed to the activation of cannabinoid receptors in the central nervous system. However, it’s worth noting that the lab animals in this study only exhibited clinical hypothermia after receiving the highest doses of THC.
Although marijuana can influence body temperature, these alterations are usually minor. Cannabis affects different individuals in varied ways—some may experience cold shakes after its use, while others might feel warm. It’s unlikely that significant changes in body temperature to result from lower THC doses.
Marijuana Use and Cold/Flu Symptoms
Although using cannabis during a bout of cold/flu won’t act as a cure, some evidence suggests it may alleviate certain symptoms. Studies indicate that it possesses anti-inflammatory properties, which are increasingly being harnessed in the medical field as cannabinoids evolve from herbal concoctions into strictly regulated prescription drugs.
Inflammation is the culprit behind symptoms like sore throat, nasal congestion, and fever during a cold. It’s believed that marijuana could potentially ease these discomforts.
Furthermore, the analgesic benefits of cannabis might help soothe the acute body aches typically associated with colds or flu.
Potential Benefits of THC While Sick
Although it is not recommended to smoke while experiencing any chest/lung-related sickness, there may be some benefits of using marijuana while experiencing another type of sickness. As always, please consult your medical doctor. Potential benefits of smoking weed while sick include:
- Pain relief
- Anti-inflammatory properties
- Relief from restlessness or sleeplessness
Potential Risks of THC While Sick
Keep in mind that no studies have been conducted on the use of cannabis while suffering from a cough, cold, or flu. Furthermore, research on the medicinal usage of cannabis is also limited.
Moderate evidence suggests that smoking cannabis can result in certain side effects. However, this list might not be exhaustive due to the scarcity of comprehensive research.
Worsened Chest Congestion and Cough
Per a 2017 review, long-term cannabis smoking is linked with persistent coughing and increased production of phlegm.
If you’re suffering from a cough, cold, or flu, the use of cannabis could potentially exacerbate your respiratory symptoms due to the irritation caused by marijuana smoke in the throat and airways.
Alternative methods of use, like vaporization, typically do not have the same impact on the respiratory system.
Interaction With Cold/Flu Medication
When on flu medication, it’s also important to consider the potential interactions that might occur when combining cannabis with either over-the-counter or prescribed medicine. Similar to many flu medications, cannabis has a sedative effect.
Therefore, for example, mixing marijuana and NyQuil or similar medication could heighten the feeling of drowsiness and impact cognitive function.
Tips For Using Marijuana While Sick
If you’re considering using cannabis while having a cold due to its potential benefits, it might be more beneficial to consume it in ways that don’t involve inhaling smoke and heat as these can irritate. Here are some alternative methods to use marijuana:
Edibles: Consuming cannabis-infused food items can provide the benefits of CBD, THC, and other cannabinoids, without the adverse effects associated with smoking.
Topical Application: Applying cannabis-infused topicals directly to the skin can be beneficial for relieving muscle aches and fatigue, making it a viable alternative to smoking when unwell.
Cannabis Tinctures: These are oils derived from cannabis extracts. They usually come with a dropper, along with a recommended dosage to be placed under the tongue.
Cannabis-infused Drinks: Combining the comforting properties of tea with the symptom-alleviating attributes of cannabis can result in a soothing weed tea. This can be a superior alternative, especially when dealing with a fever.
Vaporizers: High-quality vaporizers can eliminate carcinogens found in smoke, offering a healthier alternative to traditional cannabis smoking.
Have More Questions? Give Us a Call
Cannabis Doctor X – Medical Marijuana Doctor provides the highest quality and most cost-effective medical marijuana evaluations in Florida. Please visit us at any of our Florida medical marijuana clinic locations, or give us a call to speak to one of our doctors.
