Cannabis and Your Heart: What You Should Know About Its Potential Risks

Cannabis—also known as marijuana—is becoming more common across the U.S. and many parts of the world. As it becomes legalized for medical or recreational use in more states, many people assume it’s safe—or at least safer than other substances.

But recent studies are raising concerns about how cannabis might affect your heart and blood vessels. Doctors and researchers are starting to ask important questions:

Can cannabis increase your risk of heart attack or stroke?
What happens to your blood pressure after using marijuana?
Is it safe for people with existing heart conditions?

If you or a loved one uses cannabis, it’s worth taking a closer look at what science is saying.

What Is Cannabis, Exactly?

Cannabis comes from the Cannabis sativa plant and contains many chemical compounds. The two most well-known are:

THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) – the part that causes a “high”
CBD (cannabidiol) – doesn’t cause a high, and is used in oils, creams, and supplements

Cannabis can be:

Smoked
Vaped
Eaten (edibles)
Used in oils or tinctures

Its effects depend on how it’s taken, how strong it is, and how your body responds.

Cannabis and the Cardiovascular System

Your cardiovascular system includes your heart and all the blood vessels that carry oxygen throughout your body.

Researchers are now learning that cannabis doesn’t just affect your brain—it also interacts with this system in potentially harmful ways.

Here are some possible effects:

1. Increased Heart Rate

THC can cause a fast heartbeat (sometimes 20 to 50 beats per minute higher than normal). This puts extra stress on the heart, especially in older adults or people with underlying heart issues.

2. Changes in Blood Pressure

Cannabis can cause temporary spikes or drops in blood pressure. This might feel like:

Dizziness
Fainting
Head rushes after standing up

Sudden blood pressure changes can increase the risk of stroke or heart complications.

3. Inflammation of Blood Vessels

There is evidence that cannabis may cause blood vessels to narrow or spasm, especially in young people. This could increase the risk of:

Heart attacks
Strokes
Blood clots

4. Arrhythmias (Irregular Heartbeats)

Some people may experience skipped beats or fluttering. In rare cases, this has led to dangerous arrhythmias requiring emergency care.

What the Research Says

Recent studies suggest a growing link between cannabis and cardiovascular events, especially in high-risk individuals.

A few key findings:

A 2023 study in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that cannabis users under age 45 had a higher risk of heart attack, even with no other known risk factors.
A 2024 review of emergency room data showed a spike in cannabis-related cardiac events, particularly in states where recreational use is legal.
Another study found that cannabis and tobacco together may compound the risk, especially for people who smoke both.

It’s important to note: More research is still needed. But doctors are urging caution, especially for older adults or anyone with heart conditions.

Who’s Most at Risk?

Cannabis may pose greater risks for certain people, including:

Adults over 50
People with high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol
Anyone with a history of heart disease, stroke, or irregular heartbeat
People who combine cannabis with tobacco, alcohol, or stimulants

What About CBD?

CBD is often marketed as safe and calming—but it’s not risk-free either.

Some studies show that high doses of CBD may:

Affect liver function
Interact with medications (like blood thinners)
Cause low blood pressure in some people

If you’re using CBD for anxiety, pain, or sleep, talk to your doctor—especially if you take heart medications.

Is Any Amount of Cannabis “Safe” for the Heart?

Right now, there’s no clear amount that is considered completely safe for your cardiovascular health. Many experts recommend the following:

Use low doses if you choose to consume cannabis
Avoid smoking or vaping, which irritates the lungs and blood vessels
Don’t mix cannabis with alcohol, tobacco, or other substances
Monitor your heart rate and blood pressure if you’re using regularly
Talk to your doctor if you have heart concerns

When to Call a Doctor or Get Help

Seek emergency help if you or someone you know experiences:

Chest pain
Dizziness or fainting
A racing or irregular heartbeat
Weakness on one side of the body or trouble speaking
Difficulty breathing

These could be signs of a heart attack or stroke, and cannabis may have played a role.

Final Thoughts: Be Informed, Be Safe

Cannabis may help with certain medical conditions—but it’s not without risks.

As it becomes more widely available, we need to be smart and careful—especially when it comes to our heart health.

If you’re using cannabis regularly or considering it for medical reasons, talk to your doctor. They can help you understand the potential effects and whether it’s safe based on your personal health history.

Your heart works hard for you every day. Let’s take care of it.

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