The use of marijuana is currently legal in a number of states for medical purposes and in numerous other states for recreational use.
So, what are cannabinoids?
Cannabinoids are classified as a group of compounds found in the cannabis or marijuana plant.
Some strongly believe that cannabinoids have extensive healing qualities, but existing studies reveal that there could be adverse impacts, including a substantial link between the use of cannabinoids and experiencing hearing problems such as hearing loss or tinnitus.
What are the different types of cannabinoids?
Cannabinoids are now available in a variety of forms and applications.
Beyond its many colloquialisms, like weed, ganja, or reefer, marijuana has broader value that exceeds its nicknames.
Oils, mists, pills, and other forms of cannabinoids are currently obtainable.
Depending on the state, and in accordance with federal laws, different types of cannabinoids will be available, while several varieties remain restricted if their THC concentration exceeds 0.3%.
So it’s still common for individuals to be really careful about cannabinoids.
The problem is that we don’t presently understand some of the long-term side effects or complications of cannabinoid use.
For example, new findings show how cannabinoids can impact your sense of hearing.
Cannabinoids and hearing loss
A wide range of ailments and medical conditions are thought to be helped by cannabinoids.
Some studies indicate that cannabinoids may ease nausea, vertigo, seizures, and other symptoms.
Researchers then looked into whether cannabinoids could also offer relief for people suffering from tinnitus.
While studies are continuing, cannabis usage could also potentially impact your hearing:
- High Blood Pressure: One of the potential side effects of using cannabis is an increase in blood pressure.
Persistent high blood pressure has the potential to damage blood vessels in various parts of the body, including those within the inner ear. Consequently, this damage can lead to hearing impairment and the feeling of ringing in the ears known as tinnitus. - Ototoxicity: Some of the chemicals in cannabis may be ototoxic, meaning they are harmful to the inner ear. This can also result in hearing loss and tinnitus.
Yes, tinnitus can be triggered by cannabinoid use.
Based on the research, over 20% of study participants who used cannabinoid materials reported hearing a ringing in their ears.
And, these subjects had never had tinnitus symptoms before the study. What’s more, marijuana users were 20-times more likely to report having tinnitus symptoms after 24 hours.
Added research suggested that marijuana use might exacerbate ear-ringing symptoms in those who already cope with tinnitus.
Simply put, research indicates that tinnitus and cannabinoids may not be a great mix.
How cannabinoids worsen tinnitus
Cannabinoids can intensify your tinnitus in a few specific ways.
First off, the incidents of tinnitus symptoms can become more frequent, you might notice the buzzing or ringing in your ears more frequently.
Additionally, employing cannabinoids may aggravate your tinnitus episodes, resulting in louder and more persistent ringing that can be more difficult to disregard.
The beginning of tinnitus symptoms has also been connected to cannabinoids.
Basically, beginning to employ cannabinoids may lead to the inception of tinnitus symptoms, even if you didn’t experience them before.
It’s still not clear what actually causes tinnitus
While we observe a link between tinnitus and specific triggers, we’re still uncertain what the actual root causes are.
Cannabinoids may influence the middle ear and tinnitus symptoms, but it’s still uncertain why.
Obviously, research is ongoing.
As we gain a better sense of how cannabinoids are linked to tinnitus, individuals will have the knowledge needed to make an educated decision on which type of cannabinoid to select.
The solution that’s too good to be true
There’s been no lack of advertising hype involving cannabinoids in recent years.
A key factor is the shifting public opinion regarding cannabinoids, which also reflects a growing interest in exploring alternatives to opioids.
However, new research has illuminated the potential downsides of cannabinoids, particularly for people who value their auditory health, revealing that these substances can have adverse impacts on hearing.
Research has established a clear link between tinnitus and cannabinoids.
So regardless of how much advertising you see for CBD oils, if you’re worried about tinnitus, you should probably avoid them.
It’s worth being careful when the link between cannabinoids and tinnitus has been so solidly established.
If you are experiencing tinnitus or hearing loss, don’t wait to schedule a hearing assessment, your hearing health is so important.