Impotence and Marijuana
Are there long-term consequences to smoking marijuana?
Respiratory problems
A person who regularly smokes marijuana can have many of the same respiratory problems as a person who smokes cigarettes. Possible symptoms include: persistent coughing, symptoms of bronchitis as well as more frequent chest colds and lung problems. The smoke alone in marijuana has been proven to have over 400 different chemicals. Benzyprene, known as a human carcinogen, is included as one of these chemicals. Though THC content is bad enough in marijuana, the amount of tar inhaled by smokers of marijuana as well as the carbon monoxide is 3 to 5 times higher than if one were to be smoking a cigarette. This is most likely caused by the deep inhaling of the drug allowing for deep penetration to the lungs without the use of a filter.
Memory and Learning
Recent research shows that regular marijuana use impairs the ability to learn and to remember information by inhibiting the ability to focus, sustain, and shift attention. One study has also found that long-term use reduces the ability to organize and integrate complex information within the brain.
Also, marijuana impairs short-term memory and decreases motivation. Even after the “high” is no longer present, one’s motivation and ability to accomplish tasks is greatly diminished. In one study, even small doses impaired the ability to recall words from a list seen just 20 minutes earlier.
Fertility
Long-term marijuana use suppresses the production of hormones that help regulate the reproductive system. For men, this can lead to diminished sperm counts and those who use marijuana often can experience Impotence. Women, just like men may suffer similar problems with their reproductive system. Many experience irregular periods as a result from this heavy use of marijuana. These problems most often result in a decreased ability to conceive, but does not lead to complete infertility.
