Can cannabis dehydrate you? This article explores the common side effect of dry mouth and whether it is a sign of dehydration. Read on to learn whether you need to worry about dehydration when using cannabis to treat your pain.
There are plenty of people out there who believe that marijuana causes dehydration. After all, dry mouth and dehydration are two conditions that can be commonly observed together. But is this really the case? Before we get into the nitty-gritty, it’s important to understand that dry mouth and dehydration are not necessarily connected. However, it is still worth finding out for sure: can marijuana dehydrate you?
What is Dehydration?
According to the Mayo Clinic, “Dehydration happens when your body doesn’t have enough water and other fluids to perform its regular processes because you use or lose more fluid than you consume. Dehydration will occur if you don’t replenish lost fluids.”
We lose fluids every day through breathing, sweating, weeping, urinating, defecating, and salivating. The body loses fluids at a higher rate when we work out or become ill and experience fever, profuse sweating, vomiting, and diarrhea, which can result in dehydration.
Symptoms of dehydration in adults include:
- Confusion
- Dark urine
- Drowsiness
- Cool, dry skin
- Dry or sticky mouth
- Severe thirst
- Fainting
- Tiredness
- Headache
- Seizures
- Sleepiness
- Reduced vision
- Thirst
- Super-dry skin
- Heat injury
- Irritability
- Low energy
- Reduced frequency of urination
- Muscle pain
- Rapid breathing
- Fast heartbeat
Can Cannabis Dehydrate You? Dry Mouth and Cannabis
Can cannabis dehydrate you? While there is no evidence that marijuana causes dehydration when used in moderation, it’s important to pay attention to your body when using medical marijuana to treat an illness or health condition. Dry mouth is a common side effect for many who use cannabis to treat their pain and other conditions, but it is not necessarily a sign of dehydration. Heavy marijuana users may develop a condition known as cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome.
Does cannabis make you feel thirsty? For many patients, the answer is yes. That question was the subject of a 2019 survey published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, which found that dry mouth was one of the most common side effects. “The most commonly endorsed acute adverse effects were increased calmness, improved sleep, desire to eat, more creative thoughts, and dry mouth,” the survey concludes. “The most commonly endorsed withdrawal symptoms were irritability, insomnia, and anxiety.”
Around 63% of survey respondents reported symptoms of dry mouth during cannabis use, compared to 82% reporting improved sleep in the physiological effects category. The results were based on self-reported data and indicate what we commonly call cottonmouth and decreased saliva secretion causing it.
The THC in cannabis attaches to two cannabinoid receptors, CB1 and CB2. Both CB1 and CB2 play a role in mediating the psychological effects of THC (cannabinoids). In this case, the THC sends a message to slow saliva production, which causes dry mouth.
Is it a Cannabis Hangover or Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome?
Some marijuana users describe feeling “hungover” the day after using marijuana, which can feel comparable to a late night of consuming alcohol. Some of the most common symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Brain fog
- Lethargy
- Dry mouth
- Dry eyes
- Headache
- Nausea
Dry eyes anddry mouth are more often side effects of marijuana use than a sign of dehydration. When THC exposure occurs, the salivary glands temporarily cease production, which causes the dry mouth sensation.
However, Marijuana may also produce diuretic effects for daily long-term users. Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome is known to cause nausea, vomiting, and sometimes diarrhea, which could lead to dehydration. If you experience symptoms of cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, talk to your doctor.
How To Deal With Dehydration And Dry Mouth
Whether you are using medical marijuana to treat your pain symptoms or another condition, water is pivotal for maintaining good health. Without water, your body can’t regulate the heat it produces, and it’s much more susceptible to heat-related health problems.
Of all the severe health risks Americans face, dehydration is by far one of the worst. With 75% of Americans chronically dehydrated, a huge number of people have no idea they’re in danger. This often goes undetected yet carries many serious health consequences, such as increased blood viscosity and an increased chance of forming blood clots.
The Mayo Clinic advises men to drink 15.5 glasses of water daily, compared to 11.5 cups for women. Water is lost through breathing, urination, bowel motions, and even perspiration. Fortunately, eating replenishes our stockpiles by providing enough water.
Did you find yourself in a tough spot where you needed medical marijuana but didn’t have the required Mississippi card? Check out our blog to learn more about getting your Mississippi Medical Marijuana Card.
We’re Here to Help!
Can cannabis dehydrate you? For most patients, dehydration is not a cause for concern, but a qualified medical marijuana provider can help you determine how to stay hydrated while treating your health condition.
At Pause Pain & Wellness, we understand the potential of medical marijuana as an alternative to traditional pain medications and other drugs. Our team of pain management providers know the benefits of using medical marijuana to manage pain. If you’re interested in trying medical marijuana as an alternative to traditional pain medications, contact Pause Pain & Wellness at 833-940-5060 or [email protected]. We would be happy to discuss your options and help you find the best solution for your needs.