If a person experiences an allergic reaction to marijuana, he could experience the same types of allergy symptoms as he would with pollen, bee stings, or other common allergens. He might develop skin rashes or hives or breathing difficulties and throat problems. For many people, these reactions aren’t dependent upon how they come into contact with the marijuana. This means they could have allergic reactions if they smoke it, ingest it, or even touch it. Not all experts are in agreement as to exactly what causes the allergic reactions, but anyone experiencing an allergic reaction to marijuana should seek immediate medical attention.

Signs of an allergic reaction to marijuana are similar to some of the same types of allergic reactions to other allergens. Common skin problems include itching, rashes, and hives. People also have reported wheezing, swollen and sore throats, and sinusitis. Extreme cases of possible allergic reactions to marijuana have included nausea and vomiting, chest tightening and anxiety attacks, and intestinal cramping. Some patients have even reported flu-like symptoms including body aches, chills, and fatigue.

Note that smoking marijuana might not be the only way to experience an allergic reaction. Some people have reported allergic reactions from either inhaling marijuana smoke or touching marijuana. People who consume marijuana in other ways have also reported allergic reactions. For example, a person who injects liquids or food products with marijuana as an ingredient can experience an allergic reaction to marijuana.

Some experts believe experiencing an allergic reaction to marijuana isn’t at all surprising, given the fact that marijuana is a plant and plants are allergens for many people. Others speculate that the allergic reaction actually isn’t a reaction to marijuana. Rather, they suspect the reaction is to any chemicals used to grow it. Since some people use pesticides and other chemicals while growing marijuana, a chemical allergic reaction could be the situation for some individuals.

Whenever a person experiences any kind of allergic reaction to an unknown substance, or for an unknown reason, he should seek medical attention. Smoking marijuana might make a person hesitate to seek medical treatment, but like other kinds of allergic reactions, an allergic reaction to marijuana could become dangerous. While some types of allergic reactions go away on their own, others require a doctor’s attention and medication. For example, skin rashes might resolve themselves in a few hours. On the other hand, symptoms like chest tightening and difficulty breathing could become life-threatening.