Synthetic weed is causing Chicago residents to experience severe bleeding after use, according to the Illinois Department of Health.
Health officials have linked 22 cases of severe bleeding to synthetic weed; they are now warning residents about the new symptom. The cases have been coming mainly out of Chicago since March 7.
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“We want to alert people to the dangers of using synthetic cannabinoids,” Dr. Jennifer Layden, the chief medical officer of the Illinois Department of Public Health, told CBS Chicago. “With this particular cluster, what we are seeing is people are coming in with various types of bleeding. Whether it’s nosebleeds, bleeding from their gums, bleeding in their urine. Very severe bleeding that’s prompting them to go to the emergency room.”
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Synthetic weed is a man-made version of natural weed. Typically people spray chemicals onto dry, shredded plant material. The chemicals can cause users to experience hallucinations, delusions or act out in violent behavior. For those who may not know, synthetic weed is given several names when packaged such as, K2, Spice, or Black Mamba.
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After a city-wide Investigation, police shut down a Lawndale corner store after they found cashiers selling synthetic weed. People have informed police that they mostly purchase the product from convenience stores in several areas. Authorities say other parts of Illinois may be at risk as well. Health officials advise citizens to stop using the product and seek medical attention if you experience the side effect.
