The Answer is Yes: Tell Your Doctor the Truth

Coming clean about marijuana use is not always a good idea. But it’s time to get used to fessing up at the doctor’s office. When should you share information about consuming weed to healthcare professionals? What if you're not asked about smoking, eating, drinking, or ingesting cannabis?

A common question is "Do you use recreational drugs?" Did you ever say yes anyway? It’s not second nature for most doctors to ask specifically about marijuana. The question often does not comes up, even before surgery – but revealing this information can be critical to your health. If you are asked a question about your marijuana consumption, you should answer honestly. Read on to learn when it’s essential that you divulge information about your cannabis consumption – whether you’re asked or not.

Pre-Surgery

Before any kind of surgery, including dental surgery, tell your doctor – even in non-legal states – about your marijuana use and be as accurate as possible about your consumption.

Colorado anesthesiologists have noticed that cannabis users are often more tolerant to sedatives. Furthermore, weed-smoking patients may need up to three times as much anesthesia, which depresses the central nervous system and can affect breathing.

Eye Examinations

Smoking weed can make your eyes tired. Blurry eyes get blurrier and for those who use prescription glasses. You may find your corrective lenses don’t always work. When undergoing an eye exam, be sure to tell the doctor that you smoke weed. Tired eyes are more difficult to diagnose. As a result, you may end up with corrective lenses that only work when your eyes reach that perfectly post-stoned place they were in when you tested. It makes good sense to refrain a few days before an appointment, but still be sure to mention you have THC in your blood. The ophthalmologist will be able to administer a test that determines if your eyes are too tired to be diagnosed.

Stamina Tests

When you reach middle age, you may undergo a stamina test to determine the condition of your heart and lungs. If you smoke, you want to let the doctor know, because smoking weed can affect your stamina. Your lungs may be compromised, which can impact test results. You may want to abstain from smoking for a while and use edibles instead. Lucky for you, they exist!

The moral of the story: Be open and honest with your doctor about your marijuana consumption! Your health could depend on it.