Is Smoking Marijuana Bad For Your Lungs

It is clear tobacco is bad for the lungs and body, but what about cannabis?

More people are consuming marijuana, and it is taking a toll on the alcohol industry. But while marijuana is healthier than alcohol, what about tobacco? Is smoking marijuana bad for your lungs? There are multiple ways to consume cannabis – gummies, oils, vapes and smoking. Smoking is currently holding on to the most popular way to consume, but new users consider it “old school”.  One key reason is the effort needed to smoke.  Vapes and gummies are easier to use “on the go” and have don’t have the smell. So they are easier in larger social situations. But there is still a faithful core committed to smoking.  And for them, the lung question is important.

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Smoking marijuana damages the lungs and can lead to chronic respiratory issues. Regular marijuana smokers often experience symptoms like chronic cough, increased phlegm production, wheezing, and acute bronchitis. The smoke from marijuana combustion contains many of the same toxins, irritants, and carcinogens found in tobacco smoke.

Interestingly, studies have shown mixed results regarding marijuana’s effects on lung function measures. Some research indicates marijuana smoking is associated with airway inflammation and increased airway resistance. However, other studies have found that low to moderate marijuana use may not significantly impair lung function and may even be associated with increased lung capacity. The reasons for these conflicting findings are not fully understood, but may relate to the bronchodilating and anti-inflammatory properties of some cannabinoids.

Emphysema rates appear higher in marijuana smokers compared to tobacco smokers and non-smokers. Marijuana smoking has been linked to large air pockets forming between or within the lungs, especially in heavy users. However, the evidence for increased risk of lung cancer or COPD from marijuana alone remains inconclusive and requires further research

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While marijuana smoke contains harmful compounds similar to tobacco smoke, there are some key differences. Marijuana is typically smoked less frequently than tobacco, leading to lower overall exposure.

But Marijuana smokers tend to inhale more deeply and hold smoke in their lungs longer, potentially increasing damage.  And additionally, unlike tobacco, marijuana smoke is usually not filtered, which may increase toxin exposure.

Occasional use cases much less harm, so this information is for more for daily consumers, which can lead to other issues.