Smoking Weed While Sick: Will It Make Your Flu or Cold Better?

Hey there,

I understand you’re feeling under the weather and you’re curious about whether smoking weed could help alleviate your symptoms or potentially speed up your recovery.

It’s not uncommon for someone to consider lighting up a joint to alleviate the discomfort associated with being ill. But is it the right decision?

In this article, we will explore the implications of smoking weed while dealing with an illness.

What Happens When You Smoke Weed While Being Sick?

When you smoke weed, you’re introducing these active compounds into your body – Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and Cannabidiol (CBD).

THC is the psychoactive compound that induces the “high” feeling, while CBD is non-psychoactive and known for its potential therapeutic properties. Both compounds interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system but elicit different effects, as per this study.

On a healthy day, they can induce relaxation, alter sensory perception, and potentially ease pain and anxiety.

However, if you’re under the weather, especially with respiratory issues like a cold or the flu, the smoke can irritate your throat and lungs, potentially causing further discomfort.

Additionally, the psychoactive effects of THC can alter your sense of well-being, which the symptoms of your illness might complicate.

Related: Does Coughing While Smoking Weed Get You Higher?

Is It Safe to Smoke Weed While Being Sick?

To clarify: No strong evidence exists that smoking weed will inherently worsen your sickness – so the safety in this scenario isn’t black and white.

If you have a mild cold, smoking weed might provide temporary relief from certain symptoms like body aches or sleeplessness. However, if you’re dealing with a severe respiratory illness, the smoke might exacerbate your symptoms.

Also, chronic or long-term use while sick can have different implications compared to one-off use.

Recommended: How Can You Smoke Weed Without Coughing?

What are the Potential Risks and Downsides?

Smoking weed while sick can come with certain risks.

The smoke can irritate your airways, worsening cough or causing shortness of breath.

There’s also the potential risk of harmful interactions if you’re taking over-the-counter medicines along with smoking weed.

Long-term cannabis use can potentially lead to conditions like Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome, which includes symptoms like repeated bouts of vomiting and ongoing nausea.

Also Read: Does Showering While High Make You Sober?

What are Alternatives to Smoking Weed When You Have a Cold or Flu?

If you want to experience the potential benefits of cannabis without the drawbacks of smoking, consider alternatives like edibles, oils, or tinctures.

These consumption methods don’t involve inhaling smoke, making them possibly more suitable when you’re dealing with respiratory issues.

However, these methods also come with their own considerations like delayed onset time (for edibles) or dosage control (for oils and tinctures).

Also Check: What’s the Difference Between Consuming Edibles and Smoking Weed?

In Conclusion: Is It Bad to Smoke Weed While Sick?

While cannabis might offer temporary relief from certain symptoms, it’s essential to understand that smoking weed while sick isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution.

Everyone’s body reacts differently to cannabis, especially when the immune system is already working hard to fight off an illness. Your body needs time, rest, and proper nutrition to recover fully.

If your symptoms persist or worsen, it’s important to seek medical attention. It’s always best to consult a healthcare provider and make informed decisions about your health.

We hope this gives you a better understanding of the topic. If you have any more questions, feel free to ask.

Stay safe, and we hope you feel better soon!

Additional Questions About Getting High While Sick

Do you get cured if you smoke cannabis while being sick?

No, smoking weed does not cure the common cold, flu, or any other illnesses. It may potentially alleviate some symptoms but should not be seen as a cure.

Also Check: Why Do I Randomly Smell Weed?

But does it alleviate symptoms?

Some people report symptom relief such as reduced body aches, improved sleep, and increased appetite. However, these effects can vary widely from person to person.

Recommended: How Do You Describe Weed Taste?

So does it make the illness worse?

Smoking weed when you’re already ill can potentially exacerbate certain symptoms, especially if you’re dealing with a respiratory illness. The smoke can irritate your airways and could make symptoms like coughing or difficulty breathing worse.