As of November 1st, a significant shift has occurred across the United States. 24 states and the nation's capital, Washington, D.C., have now legalized the recreational use of marijuana. This decision has brought about a wave of changes, not only in terms of adult behavior but also in an area that often goes unnoticed - the safety of our children. Earlier this month, in several more states, voters were faced with the crucial question of whether to legalize marijuana. While this may seem like a matter of personal choice, it has far-reaching consequences, especially when it comes to the well-being of our youngest ones. Protecting Our Children from the Hidden Dangers of Marijuana
New Records in Maine and Iowa
This year, Maine set a distressing new record for the highest number of children accidentally ingesting cannabis. In Iowa, a father was charged after his 4-year-old child ate a THC bar. These incidents highlight the alarming reality that even in states where marijuana use is legal or illegal, our children are at risk. The American Academy of Pediatrics has sounded the alarm, stating that marijuana products designed to look and taste like ordinary food or candy are highly attractive to children but extremely dangerous. In just five years, the number of children sent to the emergency room due to marijuana poisoning has increased by over 1,000%. Pediatricians warn that anything infused with THC can have harmful effects on children. 1: The symptoms associated with marijuana ingestion in children are truly scary. They can experience dizziness, hallucinations, a high heart rate, slurred speech, and breathing problems. These are not minor issues but can have a significant impact on a child's health and well-being. It is crucial for parents to be aware of these risks and take proactive measures to keep their children safe. 2: The active ingredient in marijuana, THC, is the chemical that causes the "high" feeling. However, it poses both short-term and long-term dangers for children. It can affect nerve connections, leading to problems with memory, learning, and IQ. Additionally, it can cause mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety and increase the risk of substance use later in life. Parents need to be vigilant and take immediate action if they suspect their child has ingested THC.The Effects of THC on Children
Unlike smoking, which produces immediate effects, THC edibles can take 30 minutes to an hour to start working and up to three or four hours to reach their full potency. This delay in onset can make it difficult for parents to notice if their child has ingested THC. The intensity of the effects also varies depending on the child's size, just like medications can affect people differently. It is essential for parents to understand these differences and seek medical help promptly if they suspect their child has consumed THC. 1: When a child ingests THC, their bodies are exposed to a substance that can have a profound impact on their development. The long-term effects on memory, learning, and IQ can have a lasting impact on a child's future. Parents need to be aware of these risks and take steps to prevent their children from coming into contact with marijuana products. 2: Mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety are also common among children who have ingested THC. These disorders can have a significant impact on a child's emotional well-being and quality of life. It is crucial for parents to seek medical help immediately if they notice any signs of mental health problems in their child.What to Do If You Suspect Your Child Has Consumed THC
If you think your child may have consumed THC, it is essential to act quickly. Call the Poison Control Center hotline at 1-800-222-1222 right away. The experts at the Poison Control Center can provide guidance and advice on how to handle the situation. It is important to remember that time is of the essence when it comes to treating a child who has ingested a harmful substance. 1: By calling the Poison Control Center, you can get the help you need to ensure your child's safety. The experts will provide you with information on what to do and how to monitor your child's condition. They may also recommend that you take your child to the emergency room for further evaluation. 2: In addition to calling the Poison Control Center, it is important to keep a close eye on your child's symptoms and behavior. If you notice any changes or worsening of symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. Remember, prevention is always better than cure, and it is crucial to take steps to keep your children safe from the dangers of marijuana.Contributors to this news report include: Marsha Lewis, Producer; Chuck Bennethum, Editor.Subscribe to the TV5 newsletter and receive the latest local news and weather straight to your email every day.Copyright 2024 WNEM. All rights reserved.
