Seeking Relief after Smoking Weed: Identifying Symptoms and Next Steps

Many people use cannabis recreationally or medicinally, but unexpected side effects can sometimes follow after smoking. If you've smoked weed and now find yourself with a red spot in the back of your throat or a sore throat, you might be concerned. Here, we'll explore the signs of cannabis-related throat irritation, discuss whether a visit to the doctor is necessary, and provide natural remedies to help soothe your symptoms.

When You Should Be Concerned

It's important to note that mild throat irritation after smoking cannabis is relatively common and can often clear up on its own. However, if your symptoms persist or worsen, it may be necessary to seek medical advice. If your throat irritation, red spot, or soreness continues for several days or worsens, it is recommended that you consult a healthcare provider.

Understanding the Causes: What Can Go Wrong?

There are a few reasons why you might experience throat irritation after smoking cannabis:

Sharing Blunts: Saliva can carry harmful bacteria and viruses, which can cause throat irritation. Contaminated Cannabis: Mold, fungi, or other contaminants can irritate the throat when inhaled.

While cannabis can help with certain symptoms like inflammation and vomiting by suppressing immune responses, it may also make the throat more vulnerable to irritation if not used in conjunction with immune-boosting foods or beverages. Additionally, smoking can irritate the throat and hinder the effectiveness of antibiotics and other treatments if they are being used.

Natural Remedies for Sore Throat

There are several natural remedies that can help soothe a sore throat after smoking cannabis. These methods are reported to provide relief without the need for medical intervention in most cases:

Gargling with Glycerin: Start by dissolving one tablespoon of glycerin in a small amount of warm water and gargle several times a day, including morning and night. Glycerin can help soothe the throat and provide relief.

Avoid Irritants: Refrain from consuming strong black tea, spicy or oily foods, cold drinks, alcohol, and cigarettes. These can exacerbate throat irritation.

Rest and Hydration: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Warm tea with honey and lemon can also help soothe a sore throat.

Contacting a Local Chemist or Pharmacy

If you are concerned about your symptoms, it is advisable to speak to a local pharmacist or chemist. They can provide advice on soothing throat discomfort and recommend over-the-counter remedies. While it is generally fine to manage your symptoms with these natural methods, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen.

Pro Tips and Extra Information

Certain cannabinoids and terpenes have antibacterial properties, which might be promising for future research. However, they are not effective in preventing all bacterial infections when inhaled directly. If you are a skeptic or have further questions, feel free to reach out for a detailed and comprehensive answer.