Marijuana And Mini Strokes: What's The Link?

Marijuana is the most commonly used illicit drug in the United States, and its popularity is only growing. While the drug is often perceived as benign, there is evidence of a link between marijuana use and strokes, particularly in young adults. A study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that marijuana users are at risk of strokes caused by arterial stenosis, or the narrowing of the arteries in the skull. This finding suggests that marijuana use could be a risk factor for strokes, especially ischemic strokes, which are caused by a blockage that interrupts or reduces blood flow to the brain.

However, it is important to note that the relationship between marijuana use and strokes is not yet fully understood. While some studies have found an association between the two, others have suggested that cannabinoids found in marijuana may even have neuroprotective effects following a stroke.

Is marijuana a risk factor for strokes?

Marijuana is the most commonly used illicit drug in the US. It is derived from the hemp plant, Cannabis sativa, and contains the mind-altering chemical delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). The use of marijuana has been linked to strokes, particularly in young adults. However, the exact mechanism by which marijuana may cause strokes is not yet fully understood.

Evidence of a link between marijuana use and strokes

A study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that marijuana users are at risk of strokes caused by arterial stenosis, or the narrowing of the arteries in the skull. The study, which examined 334 patients under the age of 45 who had been admitted with ischemic strokes, found that 45% of strokes in marijuana users were caused by intracranial arterial stenosis, compared to 14% in non-marijuana users. This study provides evidence of a link between marijuana use and strokes, particularly ischemic strokes.

A review of 17 studies involving 3,185,560 people with cannabis use found that the prevalence of ischemic stroke and hemorrhagic stroke was 1.2% and 0.3%, respectively, in people with cannabis use. This is higher than the prevalence of these types of strokes in people without cannabis use, which was 0.8% and 0.2%, respectively. This review provides further evidence of a link between cannabis use and stroke, particularly ischemic stroke.

Possible mechanisms for how marijuana may cause strokes

One possible mechanism by which marijuana may cause strokes is by triggering reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS). Animal studies have shown that THC, the primary psychoactive ingredient in cannabis, has peripheral vasoconstrictor properties. In humans, this could lead to a constriction of the blood vessels in the brain, resulting in a blockage of blood flow and an ischemic stroke.

Another possible mechanism is through the activation of CB1 and CB2 receptors in the cardiovascular system. These receptors are widely distributed in the cardiovascular system and are involved in the regulation of vascular tone and blood pressure. Activation of these receptors by THC may contribute to the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis, or the buildup of plaque in the arteries, which can increase the risk of ischemic stroke.

The role of other risk factors

It is important to note that other risk factors may also play a role in the link between marijuana use and strokes. For example, marijuana users in the study by Wolff et al. were more likely to be male, to smoke tobacco, and to have other lifestyle risk factors for strokes. Therefore, it is difficult to attribute the increased risk of stroke solely to marijuana use.

While there is evidence of a link between marijuana use and strokes, particularly ischemic strokes, the exact mechanism by which marijuana may cause strokes is not yet fully understood. Further research is needed to establish a causal relationship and to determine the role of other risk factors. In the meantime, it is important for people who use marijuana, especially those with other risk factors for strokes, to be aware of the potential risks and to seek medical advice if they have any concerns.

What are the signs of a mini stroke?

While the evidence is still growing, there is a link between marijuana use and strokes, particularly ischemic strokes. Ischemic strokes are caused by a blockage that interrupts or reduces blood flow to the brain.

• Face – the face may have dropped on one side, the person may not be able to smile, or their mouth or eye may have drooped.
• Arms – the person may not be able to lift both arms and keep them raised, due to weakness or numbness in one arm.
• Speech – their speech may be slurred or garbled, or the person may not be able to talk at all, even though they appear awake. They may also have trouble understanding speech.
• Time – it's time to call emergency services immediately if you notice any of these signs or symptoms.

Other signs and symptoms of a mini-stroke include:

• Complete paralysis of one side of the body.
• Sudden vision loss, blurred vision, or double vision.
• Problems with balance and coordination.
• Difficulty swallowing.

What are the effects of marijuana on the brain?

Marijuana is the most commonly used illicit drug in the US, and its use is widespread among young people. The drug contains delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the mind-altering chemical that causes the "high" associated with cannabis.

Marijuana has been linked to an increased risk of stroke, particularly in young adults. A study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that marijuana users are at risk of stroke caused by arterial stenosis, or the narrowing of the arteries in the skull. Ischemic strokes, which are caused by a blockage that interrupts or reduces blood flow to the brain, are more prevalent in marijuana users than non-users. The study also found that intracranial arterial stenosis was more common in marijuana users, with 45% of strokes caused by this condition, compared to 14% in non-users.

The primary psychoactive ingredient in marijuana, THC, interacts with CB1 and CB2 receptors in the central nervous system (CNS). Activation of these receptors leads to the disruption of psychomotor behaviour, short-term memory impairment, stimulation of appetite, and anti-nociceptive and anti-emetic effects. The CB1 and CB2 receptors are also widely distributed in the cardiovascular system, and their activation can contribute to the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and increased risk of acute myocardial infarction.

While the exact mechanism by which cannabis may cause ischemic stroke is not fully understood, it is believed that THC may trigger reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS). Animal studies have shown that THC has peripheral vasoconstrictor properties. Additionally, the increasing amount of THC in marijuana over the years is believed to increase the risk of addiction.

The effects of marijuana on the brain are not limited to an increased risk of stroke. Marijuana use has been linked to long-term or permanent effects on brain development, particularly in teens, impacting the brain's ability to build connections between areas needed for thinking, memory, and learning. This can lead to lower achievement in education. Marijuana use has also been associated with symptoms of mental illness, including temporary hallucinations and paranoia, and the worsening of schizophrenia symptoms.

On the other hand, medical marijuana has been found to have potential benefits in treating stroke symptoms and reducing the risk of stroke-related damage to the brain. Cannabinoids, including THC and CBD, have been shown to block glutamate, a neurochemical that leads to the accumulation of toxic molecules that kill brain cells during oxygen deprivation. CBD, in particular, is effective as an antioxidant and does not produce psychoactive effects. Administering cannabinoids immediately after a stroke can protect astrocytes and neurons from damage, leading to improved recovery. Additionally, medical cannabis has been found to help with post-stroke depression, pain management, and the treatment of stroke-related brain inflammation and severe headaches.

What are the physical effects of a stroke?

While marijuana is the most commonly used illicit drug in the US, it is also linked to strokes. Marijuana users are at risk of strokes caused by arterial stenosis, or the narrowing of the arteries in the skull. This is a different kind of stroke than what is usually observed in non-marijuana users. Ischemic strokes in young adults who use marijuana are more likely to be caused by stenosis. Ischemic stroke is caused by a blockage that interrupts or reduces blood flow to the brain.

The physical effects of a stroke vary from person to person, depending on the type, severity, location, and number of strokes. A stroke can affect any part of the body, and the impact can be mild or severe. Some people have no physical effects, while others have several.

The brain is divided into three main areas: the cerebrum, cerebellum, and brainstem. When an area of the brain is damaged by a stroke, the part of the body it controls may lose normal function, which may result in a disability. Large strokes can be fatal, and smaller strokes in certain parts of the brain can also cause death.

The cerebrum controls movement, feeling, chewing, swallowing, cognitive ability, awareness of surroundings, and bowel and bladder control. A stroke in the right hemisphere of the cerebrum may result in left-sided weakness or paralysis, loss of vision in the left field of both eyes, and problems with depth perception. A stroke in the left hemisphere may cause right-sided weakness, problems with speech and understanding language, and impaired ability to read, write, and learn new information.

The cerebellum, located at the back of the brain, helps manage muscle action and control. Strokes in this area are less common but can cause severe effects, including an inability to walk and trouble with coordination and balance.

The brainstem, located at the base of the brain, controls vital "life-support" functions such as heartbeat, blood pressure, and breathing. It also helps control eye movement, hearing, speech, chewing, and swallowing. A stroke in this area can cause breathing and heart function problems, trouble with body temperature control, balance and coordination issues, weakness or paralysis, and difficulty chewing, swallowing, and speaking.

Some common physical effects of a stroke include:

• Muscle weakness
• Fatigue or extreme tiredness
• Problems with balance
• Foot drop (difficulty lifting the foot and toes)
• Spasticity and contractures (muscle stiffness)
• Changes in sensation
• Swallowing problems
• Bladder and bowel problems
• Changes to taste and smell
• Seizures and epilepsy

What are the emotional effects of a stroke?

While it is unclear whether marijuana can cause mini-strokes, the emotional effects of a stroke are varied and wide-ranging. Most people who have had a stroke will experience some kind of emotional change afterward.

A stroke is a major life event that can lead to sudden changes at home, at work, and in relationships. A stroke survivor might experience feelings of shock, anger, grief, guilt, and sadness. They may also feel a sense of loss and grief for their physical and mental abilities prior to the stroke. These feelings are normal when faced with such a devastating change.

The emotional effects of a stroke can also lead to clinical depression, which is the most commonly experienced emotional disorder by stroke survivors. Depression can affect a person's spirit and confidence and create a dangerous cycle of isolation and despair that disrupts their thinking and daily functions. It can also hinder their recovery and quality of life.

Another possible emotional effect of a stroke is apathy, which can manifest as decreased or flattened emotions and a lack of motivation.

In some cases, the emotional disturbances and personality changes after a stroke may be caused by the physical effects of brain damage, depending on where and how severely the brain is injured.

It is important to seek help if you or someone you know is experiencing emotional difficulties after a stroke. Talking to a doctor or therapist can be helpful, and there are also support groups specifically for stroke survivors.

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