Though many argue that the use of marijuana is harmless, it does come with short-term and long-term side effects and risks.
When smoking marijuana, the mind-altering chemical, THC, moves from your lungs to your bloodstream. THC then spreads to your brain, where it interacts with the cell receptors that impact the way you function and think. You may experience changes in mood and altered senses and have difficulty problem solving or moving.
Long-term marijuana use can cause nausea, vomiting, difficulty breathing, and an increased heart rate. Excessive amounts of marijuana can also lead to hallucinations, delusions, paranoia, and psychosis.