Smoking cannabis causes inflammation of the lungs. This makes the lungs more susceptible to infection and other respiratory complications. Because COVID-19 is a respiratory illness, adding the variable of smoking or vaping cannabis can make it difficult for healthcare professionals to determine and treat the cause of respiratory symptoms. Those who smoke and vape are among those at high risk for severe illness from Covid-19. The dry cough associated with smoking weed could mimic the cough of COVID-19 and complicate diagnosis. Altered thought processing associated with cannabis use also makes it more difficult to manage in a medical emergency where healthcare professionals need clear communication from patients. Use of weed is rising sharply, especially among older adults. Those who smoke/vape are advised to be honest with healthcare professionals so they can best determine cause of symptoms and determine the most appropriate approach.
Article by Sandee LaMotte, published on CNN.com.
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