Five Common Illnesses Patients Use Medical Marijuana For
The therapeutic promise of medical marijuana in the management of specific health disorders is evident, despite ongoing global debate on the matter. Patients in more than half of the U.S. states now have access to medical marijuana, which is used to treat a wide range of conditions. The five most prevalent conditions for which patients take medicinal marijuana are discussed in this article: anxiety, chronic pain, depression, Parkinson's disease, and multiple sclerosis.
Anxiety
Millions of individuals throughout the world suffer with anxiety, a mental health problem defined by chronic and excessive concern. As a more natural alternative to conventional pharmaceuticals, medical marijuana has emerged as a potential treatment for anxiety.
Cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are two of more than a hundred cannabinoids found in marijuana. Both CBD and THC have shown promise in studies as potential anxiety remedies. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter associated with psychological well-being, and CBD has been shown to increase the brain's sensitivity to its effects. However, THC has been shown to help lower anxiety when used in moderation.
However, it's worth noting that THC, in very high amounts, can make anxiety and paranoia worse. This emphasizes the significance of managing dosages cautiously under a doctor's watchful eye.
Chronic Pain
Chronic pain can be debilitating, affecting the quality of life and the overall well-being of sufferers. Traditional painkillers, while effective, come with side effects, addiction potential, and tolerance build-up, leading patients to seek alternative treatments such as medical marijuana.
Research has shown that medical marijuana can be effective for chronic pain management. This is primarily attributed to the analgesic properties of THC and CBD. THC interacts with the brain's cannabinoid receptors, altering the pain perception pathways. CBD, meanwhile, boasts anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and pain.
Patients using medical marijuana for chronic pain often report improved pain management and quality of life. Moreover, it has been associated with reduced opioid use, highlighting its potential role in combating the opioid crisis.
Depression
Depression, another prevalent mental health disorder, is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest, and a significant impairment in daily life. Traditional treatments include pharmaceutical drugs and psychotherapy, but medical marijuana is increasingly being explored as an adjunct treatment.
Research has indicated that the endocannabinoid compounds in marijuana can help stabilize moods and ease depression. CBD and THC appear to influence the brain's neurotransmitter systems, including the serotonin and dopamine systems, which are closely linked to mood regulation and depression,
It’s important to acknowledge that while many patients report improved mood and reduced depressive symptoms with medical marijuana use, others have reported increased feelings of depression. This discrepancy underscores the need for further research and careful, personalized treatment planning.
Parkinson's Disease
Parkinson's disease is a progressive nervous system disorder that affects movement. Symptoms start gradually, sometimes with a barely noticeable tremor in just one hand. While there is currently no cure for Parkinson’s, medical marijuana may offer symptom relief.
Studies indicate that cannabinoids can reduce Parkinson's associated symptoms such as pain, sleep disruption, and tremors. Cannabinoids, particularly CBD, are believed to have neuroprotective properties, which could slow the progression of the disease.
However, research in this field is ongoing, and while some patients report significant symptom relief, others see little to no effect. Thus, it's crucial that patients considering medical marijuana for Parkinson's disease consult with their healthcare providers.
Multiple Sclerosis
Disabling conditions of the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) include multiple sclerosis (MS). Muscle spasms, difficulty moving, and difficulties with balance and coordination are common symptoms of multiple sclerosis.
Recognized treatments for multiple sclerosis symptoms include medical marijuana. Cannabinoids have been demonstrated to alleviate pain and muscle stiffness (spasticity) in multiple sclerosis patients. This is because cannabinoids govern several bodily functions, such as pain and immunological response, by interacting with the endocannabinoid system.
Keep in mind that just like any other medicine, medical marijuana might have unwanted side effects. Dizziness, dry mouth, and mental abnormalities are among symptoms that have been linked to multiple sclerosis. Therefore, it is essential to weigh the benefits of medicinal marijuana against these potential side effects.
Other Conditions
Medical marijuana is being researched as a potential treatment for many other ailments, not only the ones listed above. Here are some other ailments for which cannabis may have medicinal benefits.
PTSD: Traumatic events can set off a mental health disease known as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which frequently manifests in the form of persistent anxiety, reoccurring flashbacks, and recurring nightmares. Some research suggests that medical marijuana, particularly strains high in CBD, can help alleviate these symptoms and improve the overall quality of life for those suffering from PTSD.
Epilepsy: There's growing evidence that CBD, a non-psychoactive cannabinoid, can help reduce the frequency of seizures in patients with epilepsy. The FDA has approved Epidiolex, a CBD-based medication, for treating two severe forms of epilepsy, Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome. Studies suggest CBD works by calming overactive brain cells that cause seizures.
Glaucoma: Medical marijuana has been used for several decades to treat glaucoma, a condition that increases pressure in the eyeball, damaging the optic nerve and causing loss of vision. Marijuana can reduce intraocular pressure, helping to alleviate the symptoms of glaucoma. However, it’s important to note that the effects are temporary, and marijuana doesn't prevent the progression of the disease.
Conclusion
As medical marijuana continues to gain traction as a viable treatment option for various ailments, it's essential for patients and healthcare providers to have access to accurate and updated information. While the use of medical marijuana for conditions such as anxiety, chronic pain, depression, Parkinson's disease, and multiple sclerosis shows promise, further research is needed to fully understand its potential benefits and risks.
Moreover, the effectiveness of medical marijuana can vary greatly depending on individual factors such as genetics, the specifics of the illness, and the strains and dosage of marijuana used. Therefore, it is vital to approach its use with caution, always under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
