what is greening out feel like

Natashya

2 min read

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24-12-2024

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What Does Greening Out Feel Like? Understanding Cannabis's Less Pleasant Side

What is Greening Out?

"Greening out" is a term used to describe an unpleasant experience caused by consuming too much cannabis, particularly THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), its primary psychoactive component. It's not a dangerous condition in itself, but it can be incredibly uncomfortable and frightening for the first-time user or someone who has a low tolerance. Understanding what it feels like can help you avoid or manage it.

Physical Symptoms:

• Intense Nausea and Vomiting: This is arguably the most common symptom. It can range from mild queasiness to uncontrollable vomiting.
• Dizziness and Lightheadedness: You might feel faint, unsteady on your feet, or like you're going to pass out. Rapid heart rate (tachycardia) is also possible.
• Increased Heart Rate: Cannabis can temporarily elevate your heart rate. While usually not dangerous for healthy individuals, it can be alarming if you're not prepared.
• Anxiety and Panic: The overwhelming feeling of anxiety can worsen physical symptoms. A racing heart, coupled with fear, creates a negative feedback loop.
• Paranoia and Delusions: Feeling disconnected from reality, suspicious of others, or experiencing distorted thoughts are possible. These feelings can intensify existing anxieties.
• Loss of Coordination: You might have trouble walking, talking, or performing simple tasks.
• Increased Sensitivity: This heightened sensitivity might involve an amplified experience of sounds, smells, or touch that can exacerbate anxiety.

Mental Symptoms:

• Intense Anxiety: Feeling overwhelmed with worry, fear, or dread is very common. This anxiety can be debilitating.
• Panic Attacks: In severe cases, greening out can trigger full-blown panic attacks, characterized by rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, and intense fear.
• Dissociation: A feeling of detachment from yourself or your surroundings. You might feel like you're observing yourself from outside your body.
• Paranoia: Intense mistrust or suspicion of others, even those you know well.
• Confusion and Disorientation: Difficulty thinking clearly or understanding what's happening around you.

What to Do If You're Greening Out:

• Stay Calm: Easier said than done, but panicking will only worsen the experience. Try deep breathing exercises.
• Find a Safe Space: Lie down in a quiet, comfortable place. Avoid loud noises or bright lights.
• Hydrate: Drink plenty of water or juice. Dehydration can worsen nausea.
• Eat Something: Simple carbohydrates like crackers or toast can help settle your stomach. Avoid greasy or heavy foods.
• Fresh Air: Getting some fresh air can help alleviate some symptoms.
• Distraction: Focus on something calming, like gentle music or a quiet activity.
• CBD: Some find that CBD (cannabidiol), a non-psychoactive component of cannabis, can help mitigate some of the negative effects of THC.

When to Seek Medical Attention:

While greening out is usually temporary and not medically dangerous, seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Severe chest pain
• Difficulty breathing
• Prolonged vomiting or inability to keep down fluids
• Loss of consciousness
• Suicidal thoughts

Preventing Greening Out:

• Start Low and Go Slow: Begin with a small amount of cannabis and wait to see how you feel before consuming more.
• Know Your Tolerance: If you're a new user, your tolerance will be lower.
• Choose the Right Product: Different strains of cannabis can have varying effects. Start with strains known for being less potent.
• Avoid Mixing with Alcohol or Other Substances: Combining cannabis with other substances can increase the risk of negative side effects.
• Be in a Safe and Comfortable Environment: Surround yourself with trusted people in a relaxed setting.

Greening out is an unpleasant but often temporary experience. Understanding the symptoms and taking preventative measures can significantly reduce the likelihood of experiencing it. Remember, if you feel overwhelmed or concerned, don't hesitate to seek support from a trusted friend or medical professional.