A 40 years old patient who has been consuming cannabis regularly for last 20 years comes to you in withdrawal. What is the most frequently seen withdrawal symptom?
**Core Concept**
Cannabis withdrawal syndrome is a condition that occurs when an individual who has been using cannabis regularly for an extended period attempts to stop or significantly reduce their consumption. This syndrome is characterized by a set of symptoms that can range from mild to severe, including irritability, anxiety, and sleep disturbances.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Irritability is the most frequently seen withdrawal symptom from cannabis due to its effect on the brain's reward system and stress response. Chronic cannabis use alters the brain's function by affecting the release of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin. When cannabis consumption is stopped or reduced, the brain's stress response is triggered, leading to increased irritability. This is because the brain's attempt to readjust to the absence of cannabis results in an imbalance of neurotransmitters, causing mood swings and irritability.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Yawning is more commonly associated with nicotine withdrawal rather than cannabis withdrawal. While yawning can occur in various withdrawal syndromes, it is not the most frequently seen symptom in cannabis withdrawal.
**Option B:** Seizures are not typically associated with cannabis withdrawal. In fact, cannabis has been used in some cases to treat seizure disorders, such as epilepsy. However, withdrawal from cannabis is not known to cause seizures.
**Option D:** Tremors are more commonly associated with alcohol withdrawal rather than cannabis withdrawal. While tremors can occur in various withdrawal syndromes, they are not typically seen in cannabis withdrawal.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It is essential to recognize that cannabis withdrawal can be a challenging condition for patients, and clinicians should be aware of the potential for irritability and other withdrawal symptoms when counseling patients about cannabis cessation. A supportive and non-judgmental approach can help patients manage these symptoms and reduce the risk of relapse.
**✓ Correct Answer: C. Irritability**