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Learn | 08.19.2024

Headaches From Weed? This Is How To Fix Them

Headache after smoking weed? THC may be to blame.

Cannabis has a multitude of medical benefits, many of them associated with its advantages in treating certain ailments, including migraines.

However, there are some people who say that weed gives them a headache, and others claim that consuming too much gives them a weed hangover.

Let’s take a look at the headaches after smoking weed and how to prevent marijuana headaches before they take root.

Can Smoking Weed Cause Headaches?

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Headache after weed smoking? It’s more common than you may think.

There are several ways in which cannabis could be linked to headaches. But they usually only boil down to three:

  • Cannabis hangover
  • Cannabis withdrawal syndrome
  • The type of cannabis being consumed

It is important to know that, in general, cannabis helps people suffering from headaches or severe migraines to overcome them, although it all depends on the individual, his/her tolerance to cannabis, and the strain and method of consumption.

Black Market Weed Can Cause Headaches

While not everyone has a choice of where to buy cannabis, those who buy on the black market are more at risk of headaches than those who buy from licensed dispensaries.

This is because legal weed is tested by independent laboratories that check for pesticides, bacteria, and mold.

In contrast, black market weed is completely unregulated, so you are more likely to consume chemicals from pesticides or mold from storage and curing techniques unsuitable for human consumption.

Could Dehydration Be The Cause Of Weed-Induced Headaches?

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Yes. Although, there is actually no research showing that cannabis causes dehydration.

Despite this clarification, the cause of many headaches, in general, is dehydration, even among non-cannabis users.

Therefore, it is very likely that headaches caused by weed are often just dehydration headaches that occur around the same time cannabis is consumed. It is always important to drink enough water and even more important to keep drinking during the next smoking (or vaping) session. You can even try CBD water to keep you hydrated and medicated at the same time.

Could It Be A Weed Hangover?

Although it’s a bit controversial, some people believe they suffer from a weed hangover. More up-to-date research is needed, but consuming too much cannabis could cause the following symptoms the next day:

  • Headaches
  • Dry eyes
  • Cotton-mouth
  • Concentration problems
  • Lightheadedness
  • Nausea and loss of appetite
  • Lethargy and fatigue

Frankly, compared to some of the worst alcohol hangovers I’ve ever had, a weed hangover seems like a walk in the park.

But if you can’t risk a hangover, avoid flowers with very high THC levels, especially if you’re not a regular cannabis user.

High doses of edibles have also been known, anecdotally, to cause weed hangover effects the next day, such as drowsiness. This may be because cannabis is metabolized more slowly when ingested and could have residual effects the next day.

Fortunately, most weed hangover symptoms are easily cured with coffee and an over-the-counter pain reliever. Or with another joint. No judgment.

Weed Withdrawal

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Headaches caused by weed can also be due to withdrawal.

Although cannabis is far less addictive than cigarettes and alcohol, or drugs such as cocaine and opiates, it can produce mild withdrawal when regular users quit suddenly. Withdrawal symptoms from weed can include

  • Headaches
  • Nausea and loss of appetite
  • Increased anxiety
  • Insomnia and restlessness
  • Decreased sex drive

For many people who use cannabis for medicinal purposes, withdrawal from the herb is actually the return of the symptoms that the cannabis was helping. From migraines to anxiety, stopping cannabis use when you use it daily can be an adjustment.

How To Prevent Cannabis-Related Headaches

There are several things people can do to prevent cannabis-related headaches. First, it is important to choose high-quality cannabis and avoid impurities and chemicals. It is also essential to stay hydrated when consuming cannabis and avoid smoking large amounts in a short period of time.

In addition, people can consider alternatives to inhaling cannabis, such as edibles or oils, which do not involve inhaling smoke and may be less likely to cause headaches.

Ways To Treat Marijuana Headaches

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You can do some things to treat headaches caused by cannabis. Ultimately, what works for one person may not work for another.

Stay Hydrated: Although cannabis does not cause dehydration directly, dehydration is linked to headaches. Drinking a couple of glasses of water when you have a headache can help relieve it.

Take Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter medications can help relieve weed headaches.

Eat Something: Eating something is especially important if you wake up in the morning with a hangover after using cannabis.

Caffeine: Caffeine can help treat headaches. However, be aware that caffeine can make headaches worse in some people, so consume small amounts and don’t overdo it.

Massage: Massaging your head and temples can help reduce your headache from weed.

A Final Note

So, the next time you find yourself asking “Why does weed give me a headache,” you know it’s from a combination of weed withdrawal, dehydration, high THC levels, cheap weed, or smoking in general.

 

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