Can You Be Allergic to Marijuana? Signs And Symptoms

Allergic reactions to marijuana, although rare, can occur just like with many other plants and substances. As marijuana use becomes more widespread, with its legalization for medicinal and recreational purposes in many regions, awareness of potential allergic reactions is essential. If you find yourself experiencing unusual symptoms after coming into contact with marijuana, you may be wondering if it’s possible to be allergic to this plant.

Marijuana allergy symptoms closely resemble those of other allergies, including those triggered by pollen, dust, or pets. You might notice nasal congestion, watery eyes, sneezing, and skin irritations. In some cases, individuals might experience respiratory issues or even anaphylaxis, a severe and potentially life-threatening reaction. Changes in the legal status of cannabis have led to increased research into its effects, including allergic reactions. Identifying an allergy to marijuana involves paying attention to your body’s response and possibly consulting with a healthcare professional for diagnosis and management.

Understanding and identifying the signs and symptoms is crucial, especially if you are using marijuana for medical purposes. The reaction can be to the pollen, smoke, or even the handling of the plant. Remember that reactions can vary in intensity, from mild inconvenience to severe health risks. Pay attention to how your body responds to marijuana exposure, and seek medical advice if you suspect a marijuana allergy. Knowing whether you’re allergic can help you make informed decisions about your health and cannabis use.

Understanding Marijuana Allergy

When you come into contact with the cannabis plant, certain substances within can trigger your body’s immune system to react. This is the basis behind a marijuana or cannabis allergy. If you’re allergic to marijuana, your body views proteins in the plant as harmful despite them being harmless to others, leading to an allergic reaction.

Signs and Symptoms

Experiencing a cannabis allergy can manifest in various symptoms, ranging from mild discomfort to severe reactions. These may include skin irritations such as redness, itching, hives and respiratory issues like sneezing, coughing, or nasal congestion. Additionally, ocular symptoms such as red, itchy, or watery eyes may indicate an allergic response to marijuana.

Routes of Exposure

Your exposure to cannabis allergens can occur through different routes. Inhalation, such as breathing in smoke or cannabis pollen, is a standard exposure method. Additionally, skin contact through handling the plant or its products, as well as ingestion by consuming foods containing cannabis, can lead to allergic reactions. Being aware of these potential routes of exposure is crucial in identifying and managing a cannabis allergy.

Testing and Diagnosis

Diagnosing a weed allergy typically involves specialized tests conducted by allergists. These may include a skin prick test, where a small amount of marijuana extract is placed on your skin to observe any allergic reaction or a blood test to measure your immune system’s response to marijuana proteins. Understanding these diagnostic procedures can empower individuals to recognize symptoms early and seek appropriate management for their allergy, ensuring better control and quality of life.

Signs and Symptoms of Cannabis Allergies

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of a cannabis allergy is crucial for maintaining your health and overall well-being. Allergy symptoms associated with cannabis exposure can vary from mild to severe, impacting different systems in the body.

Common symptoms include sneezing, nasal congestion, and itchy, watery eyes, typical indicators of a cannabis allergy. In severe cases, anaphylaxis may occur, characterized by swelling of the throat or face, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, or loss of consciousness, necessitating immediate medical attention. Seeking prompt medical help is essential if you experience any severe symptoms to ensure proper management and avoid potentially life-threatening complications.

Cannabis Smoke and Respiratory Reactions

Inhaling cannabis smoke can impact your respiratory system, containing many of the same irritants and carcinogens found in tobacco smoke. Individuals with asthma or other respiratory conditions may find that exposure to marijuana smoke triggers symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and increased phlegm production.

For those with asthma, cannabis smoke can act as an irritant, potentially exacerbating symptoms and leading to increased frequency and intensity of asthma attacks, difficulty breathing, and chest tightness. If you notice any discomfort or a worsening of asthma symptoms after exposure to cannabis smoke, it’s essential to prioritize your health and consider avoiding further exposure. Consulting with a healthcare professional can provide personalized guidance on managing respiratory issues associated with cannabis use.

Diagnosing Marijuana Allergy

To identify a marijuana allergy, healthcare professionals typically employ specific tests and evaluations. These strategies are imperative for accurate diagnosis.

Allergy Testing

One standard method for diagnosing a marijuana allergy is the skin prick test. During this procedure, a small amount of marijuana extract is placed on your skin, typically on your forearm or back, and then pricked through the drop with a needle. If you’re allergic, you may develop a raised bump (wheal) surrounded by redness (flare) at the site of the prick. This reaction indicates your body’s immune system is responding to the presence of allergens found in marijuana.

Blood tests can also be used to diagnose a marijuana allergy. These tests measure the presence of marijuana-specific antibodies in your blood. If antibodies are detected, it confirms an allergic response to marijuana.

Clinical Evaluation

Doctors specializing in ann allergy, asthma immunol, or clinical immunology will conduct a thorough clinical evaluation. This includes detailed questions about your symptoms and exposure history. Your response to accidental or intentional exposure to marijuana will provide crucial information for diagnosis.

Your medical history is an essential component of the diagnostic process. Disclosing any known allergies or allergic reactions in the past is vital, as they can assist the allergist in interpreting test results and clinical evaluation findings.

Marijuana Allergy Treatment Options

When addressing a marijuana allergy, the primary objective is to manage symptoms effectively and steer clear of triggers. Treatment options include medication used for symptomatic relief and preventative measures to minimize exposure risks.

Medication options such as antihistamines, inhaled corticosteroids, decongestants, and leukotriene receptor antagonists can relieve allergy symptoms like itching, sneezing, runny nose, and asthma-induced inflammation. These allergy medications are commonly used to alleviate discomfort caused by marijuana allergy symptoms, offering relief from allergic reactions triggered by cannabis pollen or other cannabis allergens. Additionally, they can help manage more severe manifestations such as allergic rhinitis or asthma symptoms induced by exposure to marijuana.

Taking preventative measures such as avoiding contact with marijuana, particularly in its raw form, can significantly reduce the risk of triggering an allergic reaction. Informing others about your allergy, especially if you’re using medical cannabis, ensures that caregivers or medical professionals are aware of potential allergic sensitivities. Carrying an epinephrine auto-injector for severe reactions is crucial, particularly for individuals prone to anaphylaxis symptoms. This emergency medication can rapidly reverse severe allergic responses, providing life-saving intervention in critical situations.

Familiarizing yourself with the signs of anaphylaxis, such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the throat or face, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, or loss of consciousness, is essential. Knowing when to administer emergency treatments like epinephrine can be life-saving in severe allergic reactions. If you suspect a severe response, acting swiftly and seeking immediate medical attention is crucial, as prompt intervention is necessary to prevent potentially life-threatening complications associated with severe allergic reactions to marijuana.

Cross-Reactivity Complications

In dealing with marijuana allergies, it’s crucial to understand that cross-reactivity with other plants and foods can compound your symptoms. Here, you’ll discover how related plant allergies and certain food sensitivities may influence your reaction to cannabis.

Related Plant Allergies

If you’re allergic to plants of the Cannabaceae family, like hemp or hops, your risk of a marijuana allergy may be heightened due to cross-reactivity—the immune system’s tendency to mistake similar proteins across different species. Watch for symptoms like itching, hives, or watery eyes when exposed to these related plants, as they could signal a cannabis-related allergy.

Food Allergies and Sensitivities

Cross-reactivity extends beyond plants to certain foods, including grapefruit, peaches, and tomatoes, which share common allergens with cannabis. If you notice adverse reactions like oral itching, swelling, or gastrointestinal troubles after consuming these foods or marijuana, it could indicate a predisposition to cannabis sensitivity. It’s essential to remain vigilant about these symptoms and consult a healthcare provider for proper testing and guidance.

Marijuana Allergy vs Cannabis Allergens

When an allergic reaction occurs, your body’s immune system perceives a substance as harmful, prompting a defensive response. In the case of a cannabis allergy, specific proteins within the plant trigger this immune reaction, leading to various symptoms. These allergenic proteins can be found in different parts of the cannabis plant, including its seeds, flower, and the pollen released by male plants. Distinguishing between a marijuana allergy and the allergens that cause it is crucial for understanding and managing allergic responses effectively.

A marijuana allergy manifests as a health condition wherein exposure to cannabis induces symptoms such as sneezing, red eyes, skin rashes, or even severe reactions like anaphylaxis. On the other hand, marijuana allergens refer to substances within the plant that provoke allergic responses. These allergens encompass the plant’s proteins, particularly abundant in its flower and leaves, as well as lipid transfer proteins known for their resistance to heat and enzymatic activity. Additionally, cannabis pollen from male cannabis plants can trigger respiratory allergic reactions when inhaled.

If you suspect an allergic reaction after exposure to cannabis, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional. Through appropriate testing, medical professionals can determine if you’re allergic to specific proteins associated with the cannabis plant, enabling personalized management strategies for your allergy.

Cannabis Sativa and Female Plants

Cannabis sativa, belonging to the Cannabaceae family, stands out as a prominent species among marijuana plants. In the realm of medical cannabis, attention frequently gravitates toward the female plants of this species. Renowned for their flower, these plants boast elevated cannabinoids, including THC and CBD, the primary active chemical compounds responsible for the plant’s therapeutic properties. The flower of female cannabis plants are particularly valued for their potent concentrations of these cannabinoids, making them integral to various medical applications and treatment modalities.

Identifying Female Cannabis Plants: During the vegetative growth stage, cannabis plants develop distinct characteristics that help differentiate between male and female specimens. One key feature is the emergence of preflowers, which typically become visible at the plant nodes after approximately 4 to 6 weeks of growth. Preflowers are early indicators of the plant’s sex, providing crucial information for growers to identify and segregate female from male plants. These preflowers are small, often appearing as tiny bumps or nodes along the branches. While they may initially resemble one another in female and male plants, they soon reveal their gender-specific traits.

Pistils are another essential marker in identifying female cannabis plants. These delicate, white, hair-like structures emerge from the nodes and develop into the stigmas of the marijuana flower. Pistils are the first visible signs of female flowering and play a pivotal role in pollination. They serve as the primary receivers of pollen during fertilization, facilitating the growth and development of seeds within the flower. As such, recognizing the presence of pistils is crucial for growers aiming to cultivate female cannabis plants for their cannabinoid-rich bud. By closely monitoring the appearance and development of preflowers and pistils, growers can effectively select and nurture female plants, optimizing their yields and maximizing the medicinal properties of the harvested flower.

Importance of Female Plants in Medical Cannabis: Female cannabis plants hold significant importance in the realm of medical cannabis cultivation due to their unique cannabinoid content and the therapeutic potential of their flower. One of the primary reasons for prioritizing female plants in cannabis cultivation is their richer profile of cannabinoids compared to their male counterparts. Cannabinoids are the active chemical compounds found in cannabis, including well-known constituents such as THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol), which exert various therapeutic effects on the human body. Female cannabis plants typically produce higher concentrations of these cannabinoids, making them more suitable for medical use and providing patients with access to potent and effective treatment options.

The flower produced by female cannabis plants are particularly sought after for their medicinal value and versatility in medical cannabis products. These flowers, commonly referred to as bud, contain the highest concentrations of cannabinoids and other beneficial compounds, making them the primary ingredient in various forms of medical cannabis, including oils, tinctures, and edibles. By harnessing the potent properties of female cannabis flower, patients can benefit from a wide range of therapeutic effects, including pain relief, anti-inflammatory action, and management of various medical conditions. As such, female cannabis plants play a crucial role in supplying the medical market with high-quality products that meet the diverse needs of patients seeking natural and effective remedies for their health concerns.

Legal Implications and Cannabis Exposure

When considering marijuana use, understanding the legal landscape is paramount due to the varying regulations surrounding cannabis exposure. The history of cannabis prohibition has resulted in a complex patchwork of laws and policies regarding its possession and consumption. Possessing marijuana, even in small amounts, can lead to legal repercussions such as fines or imprisonment, with the severity of penalties contingent on factors like the quantity of cannabis and the jurisdiction in which the offense occurs. Additionally, in regions where recreational marijuana use is permitted, there are often stringent regulations dictating where and how individuals can consume the drug, aiming to balance personal freedoms with public safety concerns.

Moreover, the legal status of marijuana is often intertwined with its classification as a psychotropic substance, subject to scrutiny based on perceived risks of abuse versus recognized medicinal benefits. Consequently, laws governing marijuana exposure vary widely, with jurisdictions taking different approaches to its regulation. In areas where marijuana remains illegal, even unintentional exposure to the substance can carry legal consequences, underscoring the importance of vigilance and awareness. Even in regions where cannabis is legalized for recreational or medicinal purposes, individuals must navigate legal nuances, including workplace drug policies and permissible usage scenarios, to avoid unintentional violations of the law.

Whether using marijuana for medicinal or recreational purposes, staying informed about local laws and regulations is crucial for avoiding legal entanglements. Patients utilizing cannabis for medical reasons may find protection under specific patient rights laws if they possess a valid prescription. However, compliance with local laws regarding possession limits and consumption settings is essential for recreational users to avoid legal jeopardy. Additionally, individuals should exercise caution when traveling across borders or entering federal properties, where marijuana possession remains prohibited, to mitigate the risk of facing legal repercussions. By remaining knowledgeable about the legal framework surrounding marijuana use, individuals can navigate the complex legal landscape with greater confidence and minimize the likelihood of encountering legal challenges related to cannabis exposure.

Medical Considerations of Cannabis Use

When contemplating the use of cannabis for medical purposes, it’s imperative to delve into its multifaceted effects on the body to make informed decisions about its potential benefits and risks. Medical cannabis is frequently sought after for its purported efficacy in alleviating pain, primarily attributed to its anti-inflammatory properties, which have been the subject of extensive study and scrutiny in various medical literature.

One notable effect of cannabis consumption is its influence on blood pressure dynamics. While the initial use of cannabis may lead to a transient elevation in blood pressure, subsequent effects may include a decrease in blood pressure levels. Given the cardiovascular implications, particularly for individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions, careful monitoring of blood pressure fluctuations is paramount to mitigate potential risks associated with cannabis use.

Furthermore, the analgesic properties of cannabis make it a compelling option for pain management, with numerous studies highlighting its potential to alleviate discomfort associated with various medical conditions. Many patients have reported significant pain relief with the use of cannabis, often allowing for the reduction of conventional pain medications and potentially minimizing their adverse effects. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory attributes of cannabis render it particularly beneficial for individuals grappling with conditions such as arthritis, where inflammation plays a central role in symptomatology. However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that the efficacy of cannabis in managing pain and inflammation can vary widely among individuals, necessitating personalized approaches and close medical supervision.

When contemplating the integration of cannabis into your medical regimen, it’s indispensable to engage in comprehensive discussions with a qualified healthcare provider. Consulting with a medical professional can help elucidate the suitability of cannabis for your specific medical condition, as well as facilitate discussions regarding potential drug interactions and dosage considerations. Moreover, navigating the legal landscape surrounding medical cannabis is paramount, as its legality varies significantly across jurisdictions. Adhering to legal regulations ensures compliance and minimizes the risk of legal ramifications associated with cannabis use. Ultimately, fostering an open dialogue with healthcare professionals, practicing cautious dosing strategies, and remaining vigilant about legal considerations are pivotal steps in harnessing the potential benefits of medical cannabis while mitigating associated risks.

Consult Your Healthcare Provider for Allergy Guidance

When considering the use of cannabis, it’s essential to be proactive about your health and safety. If you have any concerns about potential allergies, don’t hesitate to ask your doctor about possible allergies before incorporating these products into your routine. Your doctor can provide personalized guidance based on your medical history and help you navigate any risks associated with cannabis or CBD use. By discussing your symptoms and concerns with your doctor, you can ensure that you receive an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management for any allergies. Don’t wait to address these critical issues—schedule a consultation with your healthcare provider today to get the information and support you need.

Cannabis Cultivation and Allergen Exposure

When immersing yourself in cannabis cultivation, it’s vital to recognize the heightened exposure to allergens inherent in this endeavor. Cannabis plants, particularly during their flowering phase, unleash pollen into their surroundings, constituting a common allergen that can induce allergic reactions, particularly among sensitive individuals. Furthermore, direct interaction with the cannabis plant during cultivation can lead to the release of additional allergens, accentuating the risk of allergic responses.

Several factors warrant consideration to mitigate allergen exposure during cannabis cultivation. First and foremost, pollen dispersion poses a significant risk, as airborne particles can infiltrate the respiratory system upon inhalation, precipitating respiratory symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, and watery eyes. This risk is particularly pronounced in enclosed spaces, such as indoor grow operations, where limited ventilation may exacerbate allergen concentrations. Moreover, direct contact with the cannabis plant carries the potential for skin irritation or allergic dermatitis reactions, underscoring the importance of preventive measures to safeguard against adverse outcomes.

As documented in medical literature, cannabis allergies are recognized entities, warranting attention and proactive measures among individuals engaged in cultivation practices. To mitigate the risks associated with allergen exposure, cannabis growers are advised to adhere to preventive measures aimed at minimizing contact with allergens. During handling, wearing protective gear, such as gloves, masks, and specialized clothing, can serve as a formidable barrier against allergen infiltration. Furthermore, optimizing ventilation systems to ensure adequate airflow within growing spaces can facilitate the dispersion of allergens, reducing their concentration and mitigating potential health hazards. Regular cleaning and maintenance protocols are also instrumental in curbing allergen accumulation within cultivation environments, fostering a safer and healthier workspace for growers. Persistent symptoms should prompt growers to seek medical advice for accurate diagnosis and tailored management strategies, underscoring the importance of proactive healthcare engagement in safeguarding against cannabis allergens’ adverse effects.

Coping with Seasonal Cannabis Allergies

If you find yourself grappling with seasonal allergies, adopting a proactive approach to symptom management is paramount in alleviating discomfort and enhancing your overall well-being. Here are several strategies you can implement to mitigate exposure and mitigate the adverse effects of these allergies:

Thorough Identification of Allergy Triggers:

Commence your allergy management journey by visiting an allergy center, where comprehensive testing can ascertain whether you are sensitive to cannabis pollen or other allergens. Maintain a meticulous record of when your allergy symptoms manifest, enabling you to discern the specific months or periods when you’re most vulnerable to allergic reactions.

Limiting Exposure to Allergens:

During periods of heightened pollen activity, particularly in the early morning or windy conditions, exercise caution by minimizing outdoor activities and opting to remain indoors whenever possible. Introduce HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters within your living spaces to effectively capture and remove minute pollen particles suspended in the air, thus reducing your exposure to allergens indoors.

Preventative Medication Regimens:

In proactive talks with your healthcare provider about the potential benefits of incorporating antihistamines or nasal corticosteroids into your allergy management regimen to reduce a allergic reaction preemptively. Initiate medication usage several weeks before the anticipated onset of allergy symptoms to optimize their efficacy in curbing allergic responses effectively.

Symptom Alleviation Measures:

In instances of nasal congestion, consider integrating saline nasal sprays into your daily routine to facilitate the clearance of nasal passages and alleviate discomfort. For individuals experiencing a skin reaction, applying hypoallergenic and soothing creams can offer relief from itching and irritation, fostering enhanced comfort and well-being.

Formulating an All-Encompassing Allergy Management Plan:

Collaborate closely with your healthcare provider to formulate a comprehensive allergy management plan tailored to your unique needs and circumstances, encompassing both preventive measures and reactive strategies. Familiarize yourself with the location and accessibility of nearby allergy centers to expedite access to prompt medical assistance in the event of a severe allergic reaction, ensuring that you’re well-equipped to navigate any potential challenges that may arise. By proactively identifying allergy triggers, implementing stringent exposure-limiting measures, and adhering to personalized medication regimens and symptom alleviation strategies, you can effectively mitigate the impact of seasonal cannabis allergies on your daily life. Remember to prioritize ongoing communication and collaboration with healthcare professionals to facilitate accurate diagnosis, optimal treatment, and sustained symptom relief, empowering you to embrace life with renewed vigor and vitality.

Alternative Treatments and CBD Oil

When exploring alternatives to marijuana as a result of allergies, CBD emerges as a compelling option warranting thorough consideration. Distinguished by its low to negligible THC content, CBD oil presents a promising alternative for individuals seeking therapeutic relief while circumventing the allergenic properties commonly associated with THC-rich marijuana products.

CBD oil is characterized by its predominant concentration of cannabidiol (CBD), a non-intoxicating cannabinoid renowned for its diverse therapeutic properties. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is the primary psychoactive compound found in marijuana, CBD exerts its effects without inducing the euphoric “high” typically associated with marijuana consumption. Consequently, individuals can reap the potential benefits of CBD oil devoid of the adverse allergic reactions frequently precipitated by THC.

Moreover, CBD oil is available in many formulations, ranging from full-spectrum extracts to isolate-based products, each offering unique attributes tailored to diverse therapeutic needs. Full-spectrum CBD encompasses a comprehensive array of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other beneficial phytochemicals derived from the cannabis plant, fostering the synergistic “entourage effect” believed to enhance therapeutic efficacy. Conversely, CBD isolate constitutes a purified form devoid of additional cannabinoids or plant compounds, appealing to individuals seeking a concentrated and standardized CBD dosage free from potential allergens.

By embracing CBD oil as a viable alternative to traditional marijuana products, individuals can harness the therapeutic potential of cannabinoids while mitigating the risk of allergic reactions associated with THC exposure. However, it’s imperative to consult with a knowledgeable healthcare professional to ascertain the appropriateness of CBD for your unique health profile and to explore personalized treatment strategies tailored to your specific needs and preferences.

CBD Oil and Allergy Symptoms:

CBD oil exhibits notable anti-inflammatory properties, which have garnered attention for their potential efficacy in alleviating symptoms commonly associated with allergic reactions. By modulating the body’s inflammatory responses, CBD may help mitigate discomfort and inflammation stemming from allergic responses, such as skin rashes, nasal congestion, and respiratory issues. Additionally, CBD’s immunomodulatory effects may contribute to its ability to temper allergic symptoms by regulating the immune system’s hyperactive responses to allergens, thereby promoting homeostasis and symptom relief.

For individuals navigating both marijuana allergies and food sensitivities, scrutinizing CBD oil ingredients becomes paramount to mitigate the risk of accidental allergen exposure. Given that CBD oil formulations often incorporate carrier oils, flavorings, or additives, individuals with known food allergies must exercise diligence in reviewing product labels to identify potential allergens. Collaborating with healthcare providers or allergy specialists can provide invaluable guidance in navigating ingredient lists and selecting CBD products devoid of allergenic compounds, ensuring compatibility with individual dietary restrictions and health considerations.

Choosing CBD Products:

When embarking on the quest for CBD alternatives tailored to allergen-sensitive individuals, engaging with an allergy center or healthcare professional facilitates a systematic approach to product selection and dosage optimization. By leveraging the expertise of allergy specialists, individuals can obtain comprehensive assessments of their marijuana allergies, enabling informed decisions regarding CBD formulations that align with their unique health profiles and therapeutic objectives. Moreover, healthcare providers can offer invaluable insights into optimal dosage regimens and application methods, empowering individuals to embark on their CBD journey confidently and clearly.

Product Selection Tips:

Prioritizing product transparency and quality assurance is paramount when navigating the diverse landscape of CBD oil offerings. Opting for CBD products subjected to rigorous third-party laboratory testing ensures potency, purity, and compliance with stringent quality standards, mitigating the risk of allergen contamination and ensuring product safety. Furthermore, selecting full-spectrum or broad-spectrum CBD formulations facilitates the entourage effect, maximizing the therapeutic potential of cannabinoids and synergistic plant compounds while minimizing the risk of adverse reactions associated with isolated CBD preparations. By scrutinizing ingredient lists for potential allergens and prioritizing products free from common allergenic triggers, individuals can confidently embark on their CBD journey, poised to harness the therapeutic benefits of CBD oil while mitigating the risk of an allergic reaction.

To find out if you qualify for medical marijuana, it’s essential to consult with a qualified healthcare provider who can assess your medical condition and determine if medical cannabis aligns with your treatment plan. Medical marijuana eligibility criteria vary depending on your state’s regulations, which may include specific qualifying conditions such as chronic pain, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, or PTSD. By scheduling a consultation with a knowledgeable medical professional, you can explore the potential benefits of medical marijuana, discuss any concerns or questions you may have, and receive personalized guidance on accessing legal and therapeutic cannabis options tailored to your individual needs.

Robert Dotson Jr., M.D.

A U.S. Army Reserve Veteran (Major), Dr. Dotson graduated from the University of Tennessee Center for the Health Sciences, College of Medicine. Dr. Dotson also served as Clinical Adjunct Faculty at the Debusk College of Osteopathic Medicine. For more than thirty years, Dr. Dotson has provided quality patient care specializing in ophthalmology and family medicine, and he is a Certifying Physician for DocMJ.