Marijuana has been consumed by a large number of people in the United States and throughout the world. It has many short-term as well as long-term effects. Some of the short-term effects include problems with learning and memory; distorted perception; difficulty in thinking and problem solving; increase in heart rate; and loss of coordination. Sometimes anxiety, fear, distrust or panic may also be produced by marijuana consumption.
Some people may be using the drug infrequently. However, certain immediate effects may be seen in them. This causes stinging and burning of mouth and throat. A heavy cough may also be accompanied sometimes. Respiratory problems including cough and phlegm production, chest illness, risk of lung infections, obstruction of airways may be seen in frequent marijuana users.
The regulation of nerve cells is affected by marijuana. So there is an impairment of learning and remembering information. This may lessen the intellectual, job and social skills of a person consuming marijuana. This short-term effect on learning and impact on memory may last for a few days or weeks. A marijuana drug test is conducted to detect the active component of marijuana, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
The short-term effects of marijuana also include impairment of control of balance and coordination. As a result judgment ability and reaction time may be altered. These problems in drivers may cause many accidents.
Many school children and youth are facing problems by usage of marijuana. They are not interested in doing their school work. The change in nature and behavior of a child can rise a suspicion among parents. Marijuana testing on such youth may help in avoiding them to consume the drug.