Can you be Allergic to Weed?

Weed Allergy Symptoms 

Symptoms of a cannabis allergy are similar to those of other allergies. 

Skin

For some, a cannabis allergy can cause a reaction when they touch or handle the plant itself or its flowers.

Symptoms may include:

• Itching
• Redness
• Rash 
• Hives
• Dry skin

Airborne  

Cannabis plants, like many others, produce pollen that can be an airborne allergen for some people. Cannabis smoke can also cause a reaction—even if you're breathing it in secondhand.

Symptoms include:

• Hay fever or rhinitis 
• Nasal congestion
• Sore throat
• Itchy, watery eyes
• Respiratory problems, such as asthma

In some cases, mould may also be a culprit. Mould can develop on marijuana leaves during storage.

Consumption 

Cannabis-infused edibles have grown in popularity, and a weed allergy that may arise after consuming them. Symptoms include

• Red eyes or swelling
• Rash 
• Hives
• Swelling
• Shortness of breath
• Impaired Speech

Whilst rare, there have been reported cases of anaphylaxis from eating hemp seeds. This life-threatening reaction causes breathing problems and a drop in blood pressure.

Causes 

The immune system protects your body from harm. It releases antibodies to defend itself when it detects something like a virus. The antibodies release chemicals that trigger symptoms like a runny nose or sneezing. The purpose is to clear the "invader" out of the body. It's important to remember that if you have specific allergies, you might also have an allergic reaction to weed.

There is known cross-reactivity between tomatoes, bananas, peaches, citrus, eggplant, almonds, chestnuts, and weed. Suppose you have an allergy to any of these foods. In that case, you may potentially have an allergic response to weed, as it shares similar proteins. 

Treatment 

Suppose you suspect you have developed an allergy to cannabis. In that case, the best thing to do, unfortunately, is to avoid the plant, including smoking, touching, eating, and environmental exposure.

If you have been using it for medicinal purposes, you should speak with your doctor and seek professional medical advice. They might suggest alternative treatment options for your condition, like antihistamines or decongestants.