Cannabis Use and Hearing Health

Researcher Taking a Few Cannabis Buds for Scientific Experiment.

Numerous states now allow the utilization of marijuana, THC, or cannabinoid materials for medicinal perposes, and many states have legalized marijuana for recreational use.

Let’s take a look at what defines cannabinoids.
Cannabinoids are categorized as a group of compounds found in the cannabis or marijuana plant.
Cannabinoids are sometimes considered to possess extensive healing qualities, but established research suggests there might also be unfavorable effects including a solid link between cannabinoid use and the development of hearing loss or tinnitus symptoms.

What are the different forms of cannabinoids?

Cannabinoids are currently available in a variety of formats and usages.
Beyond its many nicknames, such as weed, ganja, or reefer, marijuana has broader significance that goes beyond its nicknames.
Cannabinoids are now available in formats consisting of oils, sprays, capsules, and more.

Depending on the state, and in accordance with federal regulations, different types of cannabinoids will be available, while numerous varieties remain restricted if their THC concentration exceeds 0.3%.
So it’s not uncommon for people to be very cautious of cannabinoids.

The problem is that the complete magnitude of the possible risks and consequences associated with cannabis use over an extended period is still uncertain.
For example, new findings show how cannabinoids can affect your sense of hearing.

Cannabinoids and hearing loss

A large variety of health problems and medical conditions are believed to be benefited by cannabinoids.
Seizures, nausea, vertigo, and more seem to be helped by cannabinoids, according to some studies.
So scientists decided to find out if cannabinoids could assist with tinnitus, too.

While studies are continuing, cannabis use could also potentially affect your hearing:

  • High Blood Pressure: Cannabis use can possibly bring about increased blood pressure as one of its side effects.
    Prolonged elevated blood pressure has the potential to harm blood vessels in various regions of the body, including those within the inner ear. As a result, this damage can cause hearing loss and the feeling of ringing in the ears known as tinnitus.
  • Ototoxicity: Some substances found in cannabis may be harmful causing hearing issues and ringing in the ears as a result of their ototoxic nature.

Cannabinoid use can indeed lead to the development of tinnitus.
Studies have shown that more than one in five individuals who consumed cannabis-based materials disclosed experiencing tinnitus, identified by a persistent ringing sound in the ears.
Before the study, the participants did not experience any signs of tinnitus. Additionally, individuals who used marijuana were substantially more prone to documenting tinnitus symptoms within 24 hours.

Added research suggested that marijuana use could exacerbate ear-ringing symptoms in people who already cope with tinnitus.
Put simply, research reveals that tinnitus and cannabinoids might not be a good mix.

How cannabinoids make tinnitus worse

Cannabinoids can intensify your tinnitus in a few concrete ways.
At first, episodes of tinnitus symptoms might happen more often, and the persistent buzzing or ringing sound in your ears may become increasingly obvious.
Also, your spells of tinnitus can become more extreme when you’re using cannabinoids. More extreme ringing that can be harder to disregard can be the result.

Cannabinoids have also been shown to lead to the onset of tinnitus symptoms.
Or, said differently: after you begin using cannabinoids you could develop tinnitus symptoms even if you didn’t have them before.

The root cause of tinnitus remains uncertain

Although we acknowledge the link between tinnitus and certain triggers, we have yet to establish the precise underlying causes.
Cannabinoids may influence the middle ear and symptoms of tinnitus, but it still remains unclear why.

Obviously, research is continuing.
As we get a better sense of how cannabinoids are linked to tinnitus, individuals will have the knowledge needed to make an educated decision on which form of cannabinoid to select.

The miracle cure beware

Cannabinoids have garnered considerable attention and publicity in the market over the past few years.
That’s partly because opinions are changing about cannabinoids (and, to a degree, is also a sign of a need to move away from opioids).
But this new research makes it obvious that cannabinoids can and do bring about some unfavorable repercussions, especially if you’re concerned about your hearing health.

Tinnitus and cannabinoids are unmistakably linked based on present research.
If you have tinnitus and are worried about it, it’s a good idea to stay away from CBD oils despite the numerous advertisements supporting their benefits.
It’s worth being cautious when the connection between cannabinoids and tinnitus has been so solidly established.

If you are experiencing tinnitus or hearing loss, you shouldn’t wait to schedule a hearing exam, your hearing health is so important.

The site information is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. To receive personalized advice or treatment, schedule an appointment.

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