[19F] Experiencing weakness and fatigue post-cannabis use

Patient Description

A 19-year-old female reports experiencing significant weakness and fatigue ever since she started smoking weed. She rates her weakness as a 7 out of 10, and it persists throughout the day, particularly when she is active. She also notes a loss of appetite, nausea, slight dizziness, and headaches. The weakness began suddenly and has affected her daily activities and overall quality of life. She has not experienced any changes in vision, tingling or numbness in her limbs, or muscle pain or cramps. Additionally, she reports changes in her mood and mental health, including feelings of depression and visual hallucinations. She finds it difficult to eat unless she is smoking and is unsure if she has lost any weight. She has not sought help or treatment for her cannabis use. She has no known allergies, pre-existing conditions, or current medications.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you have provided, here are some possible explanations for your symptoms:

  • Cannabis-Induced Symptoms: Smoking weed can sometimes lead to side effects such as weakness, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, dizziness, and headaches. These symptoms can be more pronounced if you are using cannabis frequently. Additionally, cannabis can affect your mood and mental health, potentially leading to feelings of depression and hallucinations.

    • Treatment: Reducing or stopping cannabis use may help alleviate these symptoms. If you find it difficult to stop, seeking help from a healthcare professional or a support group can be beneficial.

  • Nutritional Deficiencies: Loss of appetite and changes in eating habits can lead to nutritional deficiencies, which might contribute to your feelings of weakness and fatigue.

    • Treatment: Ensuring a balanced diet and possibly taking supplements can help address any deficiencies. Consulting with a nutritionist or dietitian may also be helpful.

  • Mental Health Concerns: The feelings of depression and seeing things (hallucinations) could be related to cannabis use or could indicate an underlying mental health condition.

    • Treatment: Speaking with a mental health professional can help you address these symptoms and develop a treatment plan.

What you can do

  1. Consider Reducing or Stopping Cannabis Use: Gradually reducing your cannabis intake may help alleviate your symptoms. If you find it difficult to stop, consider seeking help from a healthcare professional or a support group.
  2. Maintain a Balanced Diet: Try to eat a variety of nutritious foods, even if you don't feel hungry. Small, frequent meals might be easier to manage. Drinking plenty of water is also important.
  3. Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, including when they occur and their severity. This information can be helpful for your healthcare provider.
  4. Seek Professional Help: If your symptoms persist or worsen, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional. They can provide a formal assessment and recommend appropriate tests or treatments.
  5. Use MDandMe: You can use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track your progress, get insights, and share longitudinal medical notes with your provider.

What you should look out for

Reasons to see a doctor more urgently:

  • If your symptoms worsen or do not improve with changes in cannabis use and diet.
  • If you experience severe depression, hallucinations, or any other significant changes in your mental health.
  • If you notice any new or concerning symptoms, such as severe pain, difficulty breathing, or significant weight loss.

Remember, while I can provide information and suggestions, I am not a doctor. It is important to seek care from real health professionals to receive a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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4 mo ago

People Also Ask

Can cannabis use cause weakness and fatigue?

Yes, cannabis use can lead to weakness and fatigue, especially if used frequently. These symptoms can be a result of the body's response to the substance and its impact on energy levels.

How does cannabis affect appetite and digestion?

Cannabis can affect appetite and digestion by either increasing or decreasing appetite. In some cases, it can lead to nausea and changes in eating habits, which might contribute to nutritional deficiencies.

What are the mental health effects of cannabis use?

Cannabis use can affect mental health by causing or exacerbating symptoms such as depression, anxiety, and hallucinations. These effects can vary depending on the individual and the amount of cannabis used.

What steps can be taken to reduce cannabis use and its side effects?

To reduce cannabis use and its side effects, consider gradually decreasing intake, seeking support from healthcare professionals or support groups, and focusing on maintaining a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle. Professional help can provide guidance and support for managing withdrawal symptoms and improving overall well-being.

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