Cannabis for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Don’t suffer from Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) without exploring all of your treatment options. Cannabis may be able to help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. There is no known cure for ALS, so many people are turning to cannabis as a treatment option. Cannabis is effective in managing pain, reducing inflammation, and helping with sleep issues. This article will discuss the evidence that supports using cannabis for treating ALS.
What is Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis? What is ALS?
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative illness that damages the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. These cells are responsible for controlling muscle movement. As the disease progresses, these nerve cells die, which can lead to muscle weakness and difficulty breathing.
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Causes, What Are They?
The cause of ALS is still unknown. However, some risk factors have been identified, including:
- Family history of ALS
- Exposure to toxins
- Smoking
What Are The Symptoms of ALS? Symptoms of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
The symptoms of ALS can vary from person to person. The most common symptom is muscle weakness, which can lead to paralysis. Other symptoms include:
- Muscle cramps
- Twitching muscles
- Loss of coordination
- Difficulty speaking
- Difficulty swallowing
- Shortness of breath
Cannabis and ALS: The Evidence for Using Cannabis to Treat ALS
Cannabis is a plant that contains over 100 different compounds, including cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). CBD is the non-psychoactive compound in cannabis, meaning it does not produce the “high” associated with THC. CBD and THC have been shown to have numerous medical benefits, including reducing inflammation, pain, and anxiety.
A growing body of evidence supports using cannabis to treat ALS. A study published found that CBD-rich cannabis oil effectively reduced pain and improved the quality of life in patients with ALS.
A survey of people with ALS found that those who used cannabis had reduced pain, improved sleep, and improved quality of life. The survey’s authors concluded that “cannabis is a promising treatment option for patients with ALS.”
How Cannabis Can Help Relieve Some of the Symptoms Associated With ALS
Cannabis use for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) has been shown to improve symptoms, reduce inflammation, and even slow the progression of the disease.
The Endocannabinoid System (ECS) is responsible for regulating many body functions, including neuroprotection. Cannabinoids interact with CB1 receptors in the ECS and are thought to exert their therapeutic effects through several mechanisms. Cannabis can improve sleep quality and facilitate communication between neurons. Additionally, cannabinoids have anti-inflammatory properties, which could help reduce the severity of ALS symptoms.
There is still much to learn about cannabis and its potential benefits for people with ALS, but early research suggests that it may be a promising treatment option. If you consider using cannabis to treat ALS, be sure to talk to your doctor first.
The Best Cannabis Strain for ALS
There are many cannabis strains available, so it’s tough to know which one to choose. If you’re looking for a strain that’s effective in treating ALS, we recommend trying a high-CBD, low-THC strain. Cannabis strains with a higher ratio of CBD to THC are more effective in treating medical conditions like ALS.
How to Use Cannabis for ALS
Cannabis comes in many forms, including oils, tinctures, capsules, and topical creams. The best way to use cannabis will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Some people with ALS find relief by using CBD oil or tinctures. Others prefer to use topical creams or salves. If you’re unsure how to use cannabis for ALS, we recommend talking to a cannabis doctor or dispensary staff member. They can help you choose the best method of consumption for your needs.
How to Obtain Medical Cannabis if You Have ALS
If you have ALS and want to try using cannabis to treat your symptoms, you will need to obtain a medical cannabis card. To do this, you will need to get a recommendation from a doctor. Once you have a doctor’s recommendation, you can apply for a medical marijuana card through your state’s medical cannabis program.
Medical Cannabis Doctors have helped many people get their medical cannabis cards. Their team of experts and online presence makes the process very easy.
The Potential Risks and Side Effects of Using Cannabis to Treat ALS
Like with any treatment, there are potential risks and side effects of using cannabis to treat ALS. Some of the potential risks and side effects include:
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Red eyes
- Increased appetite
- Fatigue
- Paranoia or anxiety (rare)
Before you start using cannabis to treat ALS, talk to your doctor about the potential risks and side effects.
Tips on How to Use Cannabis Safely and Effectively if You Have ALS
If you have ALS and you want to try using cannabis, there are some things you should keep in
mind. Here are some tips on how to use cannabis safely and effectively if you have ALS:
Start with a low dose and increase as needed.
Use a delivery method that works best for you.
Be sure to talk to your doctor about potential risks and side effects.
Final Thoughts
That you or someone you know has ALS is a scary thing. But luckily, there are treatments available that can help ease the symptoms associated with this disease. One of these treatments is cannabis. If you’re considering using cannabis to treat ALS, talk to your doctor first.
Medical Cannabis Doctors are available to help you obtain your medical cannabis card and choose the best cannabis strain for your needs. Contact us today to get started.
