The utilization of marijuana is now legal in many states for medical applications and in numerous other states for recreational use.
Let’s have a look at what defines cannabinoids.
A particular group of substances that are found in the marijuana or cannabis plant are referred to as cannabinoids.
Some believe that cannabinoids have extensive healing qualities, yet existing studies reveal that there might be adverse effects, including a substantial link between using cannabinoids and experiencing hearing problems such as hearing loss or tinnitus.
What are the different forms of cannabinoids?
Cannabinoids are presently available in a variety of forms and usages.
It isn’t merely weed (or ganja, or reefer … ok, there are a lot of nicknames for marijuana so let’s move on).
Cannabinoids are presently available in formats consisting of oils, sprays, capsules, and more.
Depending on the state, and according to federal regulations, various types of cannabinoids will be available, while several varieties remain prohibited if their THC density exceeds 0.3%.
So it’s still normal for people to be really careful about cannabinoids.
The problem is that the full extent of the potential risks and consequences related to cannabis use over an extended period is still not clear.
One example is the new data about how cannabinoids affect your hearing.
Investigating the connection between cannabinoids and hearing loss
Cannabinoids are believed to be beneficial for a wide range of health issues and medical conditions.
Some studies suggest that cannabinoids may alleviate nausea, vertigo, seizures, and other symptoms.
So scientists decided to see if cannabinoids could assist with tinnitus, too.
While studies are continuing, cannabis usage could also potentially impact your hearing:
- High Blood Pressure: Cannabis use can possibly lead to elevated blood pressure as one of its side effects.
Continual high blood pressure can damage blood vessels throughout the body, including those in the inner ear. This can lead to hearing loss and tinnitus (ringing in the ears). - Ototoxicity: Some substances found in cannabis may be harmful causing hearing issues and ringing in the ears as a result of their ototoxic properties.
Cannabinoid use can undoubtedly result in the progression of tinnitus.
Based on the research, over 20% of study subjects who used cannabinoid products reported hearing a ringing in their ears.
Prior to the study, the individuals involved did not experience any indications of tinnitus. Furthermore, those who used marijuana were significantly more prone to reporting tinnitus symptoms within 24 hours.
Further studies have suggested that using marijuana might increase the ringing sensation linked to tinnitus in individuals who already cope with this condition.
Put simply, research reveals that tinnitus and cannabinoids might not be a great combination.
How cannabinoids worsen tinnitus
Cannabinoids can intensify your tinnitus in a few specific ways.
First of all, the occurrences of tinnitus symptoms can become more frequent, you might notice the buzzing or ringing in your ears more persistently.
Additionally, employing cannabinoids may worsen your tinnitus episodes, leading to louder and more relentless ringing that can be harder to ignore.
The beginning of tinnitus symptoms has also been connected to cannabinoids.
Or, said differently: after you start using cannabinoids you could develop tinnitus symptoms even if you didn’t notice them before.
The underlying cause of tinnitus remains unclear
Though we recognize the connection between tinnitus and particular triggers, we have yet to determine the exact governing reasons.
Cannabinoids might affect the middle ear and tinnitus symptoms, but it still remains uncertain why.
Obviously, research will continue to be done.
Individuals will be prepared to make a practical decision regarding which of the many forms of cannabinoids to choose from as we get deeper insight into their link to tinnitus.
caution:
There’s been no lack of marketing hype involving cannabinoids in recent years.
That’s partly because perceptions are changing about cannabinoids (and, to an extent, is also an indication of a need to shift away from opioids).
But this new research makes it obvious that cannabinoids can and do produce some negative consequences, particularly if you’re concerned about the health of your hearing.
Tinnitus and cannabinoids are unmistakably linked based on existing research.
So no matter how much advertising you see for CBD oils, if you’re worried about tinnitus, you should most likely stay away from them.
With the strong link between cannabinoids and tinnitus, it’s a smart plan to use caution.
Don’t wait to get a professional assessment if you’re dealing with tinnitus or hearing troubles – prioritizing your auditory well-being is crucial for your total health.