Signs and Symptoms of Cannabis Use

Cannabis intoxication produces specific physical, behavioral, and psychological signs that can be identified during and after use.

Physical Signs of Cannabis Use

Red, bloodshot eyes are the classic hallmark of cannabis intoxication, caused by the dilation of the conjunctival blood vessels produced by cannabis. Cannabis users typically have dry mouth (also known as “cottonmouth”) that is usually accompanied by lip-licking and water consumption.

Cannabis affects the cardiovascular system by producing an increased heart rate. The dilation of pupils in some darkened situations is also possible; the extent of dilation may vary by individual.

“Green Eyes” for Cannabis

Eye-related signs likely provide the best indication of recent cannabis use. Aside from the redness to be found, there may also be glassy eyes, and unfocused eyes that give a visual “glaze” characteristic. Individuals often report acute sensitivity to light requiring squinting or moving to darker places. The eyelids of many cannabis users may also show signs of heaviness and droopiness fundamentally contributing to sleepy, dazed appearance.

The individual is using cannabis which alters their behavior and mental state. Users typically demonstrate several characteristics regarding speech. Users appear to generally speak more slowly than usual and then usually take longer to recover thoughts and ascertain when to proceed into speech. Almost always, giggling or another form of inappropriate laughter will be present, even when topic matter or contributions are grossly pedestrian. Memory issues arise with forgotten discussions, repeated questions and difficulty following along in objective discussions.

Time perception significantly distorts, leading the user into a time warp or not being able to guess how long has passed. Increased appetite or “munchies” drives the user to over-consume, generally sweet or salty snacks.

Signs of Cannabis Abuse

A chronic cannabis user will develop a tolerance to the effects of cannabis, meaning the user will have to consume considerably larger amounts to get the desired effects. Chronic cannabis users will also have regular and now habitual bloodshot eyes, as opposed to a symptom of acute intoxication alone. Sleep hours and patterns are not completely altered with cannabis use, but may instead mean that the user is usually tired in the morning and night.

Cannabis Leaves Symptoms and Consumption Methods

Various methods of cannabis consumption will always produce relative differences in symptom intensity and duration. Dried cannabis leaves or flowers are usually smoked, which takes effect quickly and typically lasts 2–4 hours. Edible cannabis products and homemade edible cannabis can take a long while to start with symptoms while lasting longer; therefore, I have observed cannabis users misjudge the effects of the products provided to them due to the initial delay before onset (which is completely opposite the immediate effects of dried cannabis products). Vaporized concentrates, I found, have more intense symptoms for longer periods based on their potency and higher amounts of THC.

Symptoms of Smoking Too Much

You might experience dizziness, panic attacks, sweating, nausea, or simply want to go to sleep/rest.

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