Medical Marijuana in Palliative and Hospice care

The way many see marijuana can be divided into three groups: Users, onlookers who don't have strong opinions, and those who are totally against it. Over time the numbers of each group have changed as more information on the benefits of medical marijuana has come out. Medical marijuana can be used to treat severe headaches and muscle spasms. Medical marijuana might offer some advantages in palliative and hospice care. Read on to find out more. 

Palliative and Hospice care

Palliative care is a type of medical treatment for patients with terminal illnesses that focuses on alleviating their suffering on all levels (physical and mental). Palliative care is also a branch of medicine that focuses on improving the quality of life for patients and their families regardless of the stage of illness they are experiencing. A group of healthcare professionals work together to coordinate this kind of care.

Care given to those who are terminally ill and their loved ones is known as hospice care. Hospice care aims to ease symptoms rather than treat the underlying cause of illness. Hospice care is interdisciplinary and can be delivered in various locations, including the patient's home, a hospice facility, or a hospital. Hospice care entails alleviating suffering, preventing nausea and vomiting, comforting the patient and their loved ones emotionally and spiritually, and aiding in making final decisions. Hospice care seeks to improve both the terminally ill patient and their loved one's quality of life.

The difference between hospice care and palliative care lies in the intent. With hospice care the intent is not to cure, whereas palliative care is comfort care with or without the intent to cure. 

Medical Marijuana in Palliative care

Medical marijuana, or cannabis, is getting more attention as a possible treatment for medical conditions, including some that hospice care helps with. In palliative care, medical marijuana relieves pain, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and trouble sleeping, among other issues. Some studies have shown that medical marijuana may help with palliative care, but more studies are needed to understand how well it works fully and if it is safe. Patients considering medical marijuana as a treatment option should talk to their doctor to weigh the pros and cons. It's also important to know the laws in your state regarding medical marijuana. In Virginia, you need a medical marijuana card to use marijuana to treat health problems.  

In a study going over the current information, cannabis in palliative care showed some positive results. The study examined a total of over 50 studies and over 4000 participants. It found that the group using marijuana products saw improvements in their condition. Although the study found that some cannabis products have been shown to work well as treatments in palliative care, more evidence is needed before it can be used as conclusive. 

Medical Marijuana as a Treatment 

Medical marijuana has been a lifesaver for many. Being afflicted by a serious illness is challenging enough, but the symptoms it brings can be unbearable. Here, marijuana can help; it has reduced suffering for many, lifted their spirits, and made it easier for them to get some sleep. Marijuana can help you live a more comfortable life during trying times with the help of a medical professional who is advised on the appropriate dosage and route of administration.  To book an appointment, click the link below.