Long Term Weed Use & Your Voice

Long-term marijuana use can affect your voice and health, with some surprising effects on your gastrointestinal (GI) system. For most, weed means a relaxed vibe. But we're seeing now how habitual use impacts voice quality and can even lead to a condition known as Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS).

Effects of Marijuana on the Voice

Smoking anything, including marijuana, can irritate the throat and vocal cords, especially with prolonged use. This irritation can cause hoarseness, loss of vocal range, and voice fatigue. Smoking causes vocal cord edema (swelling) and over time, this leads to permanent injury.

Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS)

For some chronic marijuana users, Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome may develop, characterized by repeated bouts of severe nausea and vomiting. CHS tends to occur after prolonged, heavy cannabis use and manifests in three stages: the prodromal (pre-vomiting) phase, the hyperemetic (intense vomiting) phase, and the recovery phase. The hyperemetic phase is the most debilitating, often requiring individuals to take frequent hot showers to find temporary relief, as heat can ease symptoms by affecting the hypothalamus, the brain’s temperature-regulating center. If left untreated, CHS can lead to dangerous complications like dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and even kidney failure​.

Recovery and Treatment

The only definitive way to alleviate CHS symptoms is to stop cannabis use entirely. While treatments for nausea and dehydration can help during acute episodes, abstinence from marijuana is the key to long-term recovery. Symptoms typically begin to improve within days to weeks after cessation. For those struggling to quit, rehab programs or therapy options like cognitive behavioral therapy can be beneficial​.

CHS & Your Voice

CHS affects the voice as well, as intense, repeated vomiting results in laryngitis (vocal cord swelling). Vomiting exposes the vocal cords to stomach acid, irritating and inflaming the tissues, causing hoarseness, a scratchy or strained voice, and risks vocal cord damage over time. For chronic cannabis users with CHS, vomiting is repetitive, making it difficult for the voice to recover. The risk of vocal cord injury during this time is increased.

While marijuana can provide relief and relaxation for some, long-term use poses risks to both voice quality and overall health, particularly with the potential development of CHS. For anyone experiencing similar symptoms, consulting a healthcare provider and considering a break from cannabis might help prevent further complications. Click here to contact Center for Vocal Health today.