How cannabis impacts the respiratory system

There is substantial evidence indicating that regular cannabis smoking, even in the absence of illness, can result in adverse respiratory effects such as coughing, phlegm production, wheezing, shortness of breath, throat inflammation, and exacerbation of asthma symptoms if present.

These adverse effects stem from the irritation caused by the heat of the smoke, which can damage the delicate respiratory tissues in the lungs and airways.

Individuals who smoke cannabis frequently, particularly several times per day, are at greater risk of experiencing more severe respiratory issues.

Occasional cannabis smoking may still trigger temporary respiratory symptoms like coughing or throat irritation, but it is less likely to cause long-term harm to the lungs.

Regarding vaping, research suggests that it reduces the risk of chronic respiratory symptoms compared to smoking. In a study, vaporizer users were 40% less likely to report coughing, phlegm, and chest tightness than those who smoked cannabis.

Another study involving 20 individuals found that switching from smoking to vaping for 30 days led to improvements in respiratory symptoms and lung function for 12 of the participants.

In summary, regular cannabis smoking can have detrimental effects on the throat, lungs, and airways, even in the absence of a cold or flu, whereas vaping appears to pose fewer negative effects on the respiratory system.

Therefore, lighting up when experiencing severe congestion and persistent coughing may not be advisable.

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Can cannabis worsen symptoms during a cold or flu?

Colds and flus target the respiratory system, affecting areas such as the nose, throat, mouth, airways, and lungs. Interestingly, some symptoms of these infections mirror those experienced by chronic cannabis smokers: Inflamed throat, coughing, shortness of breath, and excess phlegm.

Given that the throat and lungs are already irritated during illness, smoking cannabis may exacerbate existing unpleasant symptoms.

Experts and consumers generally agree that it’s wise to give the respiratory system a break during an infection and opt for alternative consumption methods like edibles, tinctures, or topicals.

Dr. Jordan Tishler, President and CEO of InhaleMD and President of the Association of Cannabinoid Specialists, strongly advises against inhaling cannabis when battling a cold or flu.

The heat, particles, and toxins from smoking can trigger wheezing, breathing difficulties, and weaken the body’s natural defenses against viruses.

“In general, I would advise against smoking while sick—and even at other times,” remarked Tishler. “Other inhalation methods, such as vaporizing flower, are also likely to worsen symptoms, so I would discourage those as well.”

Tishler also noted that many patients with asthma or COPD report worsening conditions when inhaling cannabis, even without a cold or flu.

“Presumably, this worsens when a person is infected,” he added.

“Overall, using cannabis through non-inhaled means during a respiratory illness is likely safe but may not yield positive results,” Dr. Tishler concluded. “There is currently limited research on this topic. While some individuals may feel better overall if intoxicated while sick, others may find it unpleasant.”

Furthermore, other effects of cannabis might be undesirable when feeling unwell. The flu, in particular, can cause weakness and dizziness, while certain cannabis strains can induce lightheadedness.

Combining the two could exacerbate the situation. It’s prudent to avoid experimenting with high doses of cannabis when fighting off the flu.

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Can cannabis alleviate cold and flu symptoms?

While research specifically addressing the effects of cannabis on colds and flus is limited, numerous studies support the notion that cannabis can alleviate aches and pains, aid in sleep, stimulate appetite, and alleviate headaches—all common symptoms of colds and flus.

Interestingly, research indicates that occasional cannabis smoking may temporarily open up airways for 15-60 minutes, a process known as bronchodilation.

This suggests that occasional smokers may experience temporary relief from shortness of breath or wheezing by drawing deeper breaths for a brief period after smoking, although the effect may be subtle and short-lived.

According to Dr. Dustin Sulak, cannabis may offer unique benefits for individuals with colds or flus. Cannabis has the potential to dry out upper respiratory secretions, similar to its effect of reducing mouth moisture (commonly known as cottonmouth).

Additionally, cannabis can act as an expectorant, aiding in the clearance of phlegm from the lungs and throat. However, Sulak advises against inhaling cannabis if experiencing any adverse respiratory symptoms.

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Anecdotes supporting the use of cannabis for alleviating cold and flu symptoms

We reached out to cannabis consumers to gather their perspectives on using weed while battling a cold or flu. The responses were overwhelmingly positive, with many individuals sharing anecdotes highlighting how cannabis can aid in managing sleep disturbances, body aches, loss of appetite, and passing time.

Jenna Carson, a consultant at Music Grotto, shared her experience: “Cannabis has provided me relief from restlessness and difficulty sleeping when I’m suffering from body aches or fever. While some people rely on nighttime cold syrups, they tend to leave me groggy for too long. I appreciate that the THC in marijuana doesn’t have the same lingering effects as cold medicine, so I can avoid waking up feeling overly drowsy.”

Jared Sherman of Mellow Moose Farms believes that cannabis can lift you above the discomfort of illness. “In my view, if you’re going to feel terrible, you might as well feel high,” he remarked. “Opt for edibles, tinctures, or topicals, and give your body a chance to combat the infection and promote healing. Minimize unnecessary coughing whenever possible—your throat will thank you.”

These anecdotes highlight the perceived benefits of using cannabis to alleviate the symptoms of colds and flus, emphasizing its potential to provide relief and improve overall well-being during illness.