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Family Medicine  (Expert Forum)
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Fainting under influence of Marijuana
Answered by
Kevin Pho, MD - Internal Medicine
KevinMD.com
Questions in the Family Medicine forum are answered by Dr. J.M. Keyes. Topics covered include general health issues, adolescence, babies, child health, eating disorders, fitness, immunizations and vaccines, infectious diseases, medical tests and procedures, and senior health.

Fainting under influence of Marijuana

by lsfredirk, Oct 22, 2007 03:36PM
Hello doctor, I am an 19 year old male who recently smoked marijuana and fainted.
After smoking, I felt "fine" for about 20 minutes, while sitting down I became increasingly dizzy and went to get up for the bathroom, 20 seconds later I seemed to have briefly fainted and before falling down I regained consciousness.
I have never fainted before or ever come across such a problem after smoking marijuana.
Would you regard this problem as simply a negative reaction to marijuana on this occasion? Like I said I have never fainted before and am hoping this isn't a serious problem. Thanks doctor

by Kevin Pho, MD, Oct 23, 2007 08:41AM
The marijuana can certainly play a role.  However, I would also consider some medical causes for the fainting.

Testing the heart for arrythmias or structural abnormalities can be considered.  An EKG and echocardiogram would be reasonable tests to consider.

Neurological causes can be evaluated with a CT scan.  If a seizure was suspected, an EEG can be performed.

These options can be discussed with your personal physician.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
www.kevinmd.com
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