How Commonly Is Medical Marijuana Used For Parkinson’s
Millions of Americans use medical marijuana to relieve chronic pain and other symptoms. In the state of Florida alone, there are over 400,000 patients with active medical marijuana ID cards. A percentage of these patients use cannabis for Parkinson’s disease. The exact number is unknown.
You are not alone if you are interested in medical marijuana for Parkinsons. Our physicians have helped people living with this disease improve their quality of life.
Does Cbd Oil Help With Parkinsons Disease Symptoms
60,000 Americans are diagnosed with Parkinsons disease every year and over 10 million people suffer from the disease worldwide .
Parkinsons medications such as carbidopa-levodopa are effective at curbing PDs motor-related symptoms. However, long-term use can lead to negative side effects and the drug doesnt combat non-motor symptoms such as depression.
CBD may combat motor-related and non-motor-related symptoms. The cannabinoid may also help reduce the side effects of Parkinsons medication.
In this article, well be looking at the benefits of CBD and how it can be used to treat Parkinsons.
What Should I Do If I See Someone With Any Of The Warning Signs Of Heat Stroke
If you see any of these signs, you may be dealing with a life-threatening emergency. Have someone call for immediate medical assistance while you begin cooling the victim. Do the following:
- Get the victim to a shady area.
- Cool the victim rapidly, using whatever methods you can. For example, immerse the victim in a tub of cool water place the person in a cool shower spray the victim with cool water from a garden hose sponge the person with cool water or if the humidity is low, wrap the victim in a cool, wet sheet and fan him or her vigorously.
- Monitor body temperature and continue cooling efforts until the body temperature drops to 101-102°F.
- If emergency medical personnel are delayed, call the hospital emergency room for further instructions.
- Do not give the victim alcohol to drink.
- Get medical assistance as soon as possible.
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Just How Does Cbd Work
CBD and also THC engage with our bodies in a variety of means. Among the major methods is by imitating and boosting the results of the substances in our bodies called endogenous cannabinoids so named because of their resemblance to substances discovered in the cannabis plant. These endocannabinoids are part of what scientists describe as the endocannabinoid system..
The discovery of the endocannabinoid system has actually dramatically progressed our understanding of health and disease. It has significant ramifications for almost every area of clinical scientific research and also helps to explain exactly how and why CBD and THC are such versatile compounds and why cannabis is such a widely consumed plant, regardless of its illegal status.
The endocannabinoid system plays a crucial role in regulating a wide variety of physical processes that impact our day-to-day experience our mood, our energy level, our intestinal fortitude, immune activity, blood pressure, bone density, glucose metabolic process, exactly how we experience pain, tension, appetite, and more.
What takes place if the endocannabinoid system does not operate properly? What are the effects of a constantly lacking or over active endocannabinoid system?
In a word, disease.
What Is Parkinsons Disease
Parkinsons Disease is a degenerative disorder of the nervous system, which has motor and non-motor symptoms.
The disease starts with slightly shaky hands, and as the condition develops, patients have more and more difficulties controlling their movements. Their motor skills become slower, more rigid and they develop walking difficulties.
Other symptoms include emotional and sensory problems as well as sleep disorders. A number of patients will also develop depression and dementia.
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Parkinsons typically affects people over 60, but it can be diagnosed before the age of 50, which is known as young-onset Parkinsons disease. Men are affected more than women.
Unfortunately, we still dont know a great deal about Parkinsons. What do we know so far is that the brains of PD patients dont produce enough dopamine and that the death of the dopamine-producing brain cells is likely caused by abnormal clumps of proteins in the neurons.
Editors note: Interestingly enough, THC can increase dopamine secretion.
Parkinsons is dominantly genetic, as many as 15% of patients have a first-degree relative with the disease. 16305-8/fulltext” rel=”nofollow”> 2)
However, research has also found that environmental factors may cause PD. Head injuries have also been linked to developing the disease.
So, are there additional treatments? What about cannabis?
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Does Cbd Oil Help With Parkinsons
CBD oil is becoming increasingly popular among people with Parkinsons Disease. Many patients with the condition vouch that CBD is highly effective at dealing with the common symptoms of their condition, especially when they start using CBD at an early stage.
Unfortunately, there are no conclusive studies or clinical trials to back such claims. Only preliminary studies have shown that CBD has the potential to manage the symptoms of the condition and keep it from returning or becoming severe. Users agree with this, too.
Many people have agreed that using CBD along with conventional medicines has helped them live a normal life for a long time. But until further studies are conducted to prove the efficacy of CBD in PD treatment, CBD should not become the primary PD medicine.
Further studies are also required to determine if CBD may interact with antiparkinsonian drugs that are commonly used. So far, problems resulting from such interactions have not been reported. On the contrary, CBD helps deal with the major side effects of PD medicines.
What To Look For While Buying Cbd Oil For Parkinsons
Its difficult to claim with confidence that CBD has what it takes to help people with Parkinsons. As of now, there is no cure for Parkinsons Disease, anyway. But CBD users have found it helpful when they start using CBD before its too late.
You have already read out Best CBD oil for Parkinsons reviews. It is clear that you must choose products that are
- manufactured by a trusted company,
- infused with high-quality hemp extracts, and
- tested independently in third-party labs.
You may choose a full spectrum, broad-spectrum, or isolate product, depending on your needs and the effects you want to see. You must start taking it at an early stage of developing the condition if you want to see its impact on your mind and body. Find out what to look for while buying the right product.
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Parkinsons Impact On Brain & Body
Parkinsons disease is a progressive, degenerative neurological disorder. It causes loss of the brain and nerve cells that produce dopamine, the chemical that controls movement and helps balance sleep, wake, and mood cycles. This disruption of signals throughout the central nervous system results in severe tremors, muscle spasms, sleep and mood disturbances, and widespread loss of coordination. Over time, patients have difficulty standing, walking, speaking, and swallowing. Anxiety and depression are also common in Parkinsons.
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Should I Take Salt Tablets During Hot Weather
Do not take salt tablets unless directed by your doctor. Heavy sweating removes salt and minerals from the body. These are necessary for your body and must be replaced. The easiest and safest way to do this is through your diet. Drink fruit juice or a sports beverage when you exercise or work in the heat.
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Cold Weather And Parkinsons Symptoms
If you find your Parkinsons disease symptoms are worse in cold weather, youre not alone. Many members on MyParkinsonsTeam note greater stiffness, pain, and other symptoms during the winter months. Parkinsons disease impacts a persons ability to regulate body temperature, which makes some people with PD more sensitive to hot or cold temperatures.
Winter weather is extremely unpleasant for some members on MyParkinsonsTeam. This winter when the temperature dropped to , I experienced greater pain, stiffness, freezing, and slowness, one member posted. It was so overwhelming I could not find any remedies except five blankets. The pain was surprising.
Several other members mentioned that cold temperatures can cause or worsen pain related to Parkinsons disease. I get cold very easily and I shiver, a member wrote. Because I am stiff it actually hurts to be cold. Others agreed, My back and neck are excruciatingly painful, more so than usual.
Cold weather can also exacerbate Parkinsons tremors. One member commented, I have found that my shivering to stay warm makes my tremors worse. Another MyParkinsonsTeam member added, I also struggle with the cold now. It brings on my tremor, so I always have to stay warm.
Some MyParkinsonsTeam members didnt know about the impact of cold on PD until other members raised the issue. I thought I was alone with my symptoms, a member wrote in response to a question about cold weather.
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Best Strains For Parkinsons Disease
Finding the right strain for your specific needs can be a challenge. We are all unique and certain strains can have different effects on people.
Thats why its super important to be patient and do some research before signing up to an LP or visiting a dispensary.
Here are a few strains to help you start your journey on finding the right one.
Exclusive bonus: that will show you the exact step-by-step process Dr. Dustin Sulak used to successfully treat more than 18,000 patients with cannabis.
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What Is Parkinson’s And How Might Cannabis Help
In Parkinson’s disease, nerve cell damage leads to reduction of the chemical called dopamine. The result is altered brain activity, causing Parkinson’s symptoms. Although the disease itself is not considered fatal , it deeply affects a person’s life. The disease often manifests as:
- Tremors and shaking, which often begins with the hands, limbs and fingers
- Muscle rigidity
- Changes in how you speak
- Changes in how you write
- Poor posture
- Loss of certain movements and expressions that used to be automatic, such as blinking or swinging your arms as you walk
Research is limited, but cannabis can help a person live more compatibly with the effects of Parkinson’s. While there is not currently evidence showing that marijuana can be an effective treatment for the disease, there is promising research and a wealth of anecdotal evidence that it can ease the symptoms of Parkinson’s, such as:
- Insomnia/sleeplessness
- Nausea
- Anxiety
Research is ongoing. Some scientists have published findings showing that marijuana has a neuro-protective effect, protecting some nerve cells from dying. Mixed findings have indicated that marijuana may reduce tremors and shaking for some people, some of the time. Discuss with our experienced physicians whether marijuana will work for you. We help you weigh the benefits against the possible side effects.
Whats Hot In Pd If You Are Dizzy Or Passing Out It Could Be Your Parkinsons Disease Or Parkinsons Disease Medications
Over many years of clinical practice, I have seen many Parkinsons disease patients visit the emergency room or clinic because of dizziness and/or syncope . In most cases, the obligatory cardiac evaluation finds no underlying factor. Many patients are referred to a vestibular physical therapist, someone who specializes in gaze and gait stabilization, to fix vertigo however, this approach is useful for few patients. Most patients actually have orthostatic hypotension, which can be a manifestation of Parkinsons and made worse by Parkinsons medications.
Orthostatic hypotension is common in PD and affects 15 to 50% of patients. It has been defined as a drop in systolic blood pressure of greater than 20 mmHg, or a decrease in diastolic blood pressure of greater than 10mmHg within 3 minutes of changing to a standing position. Dr. Jankovic and colleagues at the Parkinsons Foundation Center of Excellence in Houston, TX, recently published information about orthostatic hypotension in a large series of PD patients. They reviewed the records of 1,318 patients and found that symptomatic orthostatic hypotension occurred in 81% of patients with multiple system atrophy, in 18% of PD, and in 19% with non-multiple system atrophy atypical parkinsonism. They found that orthostatic hypotension occurred in older patients with more advanced PD, and longer disease durations.
Orthostatic Hypotension Treatments
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Sweet Releaf Extra Strength Body Butter
- Available in: California
- Best used for: Day or night time
- Similar products: Aunt Zeldas Organic Coconut Topical, HerbaBuena Body Balm
Salves are different from transdermal patchesthey dont get into the bloodstream, so they dont typically have psychoactive effects, even if they have THC. This salve from Sweet Releaf is a great option for chronic pain and muscle cramps often experienced by those with Parkinsons disease, plus it can be used any time of day.
Many of the products listed are only available in California, although we do our best to mention similar products that might be available in other locations. Are you a Parkinsons patient who uses cannabis for symptom relief? If so, let the HelloMD community know what you use in the comments section below.
Photo credit: Jared Sluyter
If youre new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our Cannabis 101 post. HelloMD can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation its easy, private and 100% online.
Symptoms Of Parkinsons Disease
Below are several signs and symptoms of Parkinsons Disease. Sadly, many of these symptoms will worsen as the disease progresses.
Tremors: The earliest signs of Parkinsons come in the form of minor tremors, usually beginning with shaking or trembling hands or muscles.
Stiffness: Muscles become stiffer than normal, even during low activity days.
Balancing Issues: Patients with Parkinsons exhibit trouble balancing, standing or even walking.
Bradykinesia, or Slow Movement: The simple act of getting out of a chair becomes difficult without assistance.
Automatic Movement Impairment: Those with this condition may lose the ability to control automatic movements like blinking, nodding or bodily functions.
Altered Posture: Parkinsons patients may not be able to stand upright over time.
Speech & Writing Difficulty: The ability to speak may be impaired, resulting in slurred speech or discontinued speech. Writing may also become impossible due to tremors.
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Is Cbd Oil Safe For Use In Parkinsons Diseases
Preliminary studies and surveys show that CBD can help deal with Parkinsons Disease. It supercharges the endocannabinoid system to bring balance to your physical and mental health. Plus, it helps manage many symptoms of the condition. The safest way to use it would be by taking help from your doctor.
What Evidence Is Available For The Use Of Cbd For Pd
The FDA is aware that patients are frustrated that our understanding of how best to use CBD remains minimal because of the lack of clinical trials. In 2015, the FDA changed some of their regulations to make it easier to study CBD in clinical trials.
There have been a few studies of CBD for various symptoms of PD which have generally involved a small number of patients. Many have been open-label trials, in which the doctor and patient are both aware that the patient is receiving treatment and there is no control group that received a placebo.
- In one, an open label study of CBD was conducted on six patients with psychosis. Psychotic symptoms decreased.
- In a second trial, an open-label study of CBD was conducted on four patients with REM behavior sleep disorder. Symptoms decreased.
- A third trial was conducted on 21 patients with PD and was double blinded, meaning neither patient nor doctor knew who received treatment and who received a placebo. Motor scores did not improve, but quality of life scores did.
Additionally, three more recent trials of CBD for PD were conducted.
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What Are The Primary Motor Symptoms Of Parkinsons Disease
There are four primary motor symptoms of Parkinsons disease: tremor, rigidity, bradykinesia and postural instability . Observing two or more of these symptoms is the main way that physicians diagnose Parkinsons.
It is important to know that not all of these symptoms must be present for a diagnosis of Parkinsons disease to be considered. In fact, younger people may only notice one or two of these motor symptoms, especially in the early stages of the disease. Not everyone with Parkinsons disease has a tremor, nor is a tremor proof of Parkinsons. If you suspect Parkinsons, see a neurologist or movement disorders specialist.
Tremors
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Best Marijuana Strains For Parkinsons Disease
July 1, 2019
Parkinsons Disease is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder related to age, just after Alzheimers Disease.
Between 7 and 10 million people around the world lives with this disease and every year about 6,600 Canadians are diagnosed with it.
PD is a degenerative disease and theres still little known about its exact cause.
However, it seems that cannabinoids could be a new, helpful treatment for the disease.
Recent studies have found that:
Cannabis is useful in relieving Parkinsons symptoms because cannabinoids modulate CB receptors and protect dopaminergic neurons .
But thats just the tip of the iceberg. Lets try to get the whole picture.
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Kush Queen Cbg + Cbd Gummies
Looking for an uplifting or positive boost in the mood? Well, these gummies from Kush Queen are just the product you need.
The bottle contains 30 gummies and each one comes with 15 mg CBG and 15 mg CBD. We recommend you try these either at the top of the morning or during your afternoon as these are intended for daytime use.
What Is Medical Marijuana
Medical marijuana is cannabis that’s prescribed by a physician to treat or provide relief for a medical condition.
There are around 400 chemicals in the cannabis plant, and more than 60 of them are referred to as cannabinoids. The high marijuana users get is primarily due to the most psychoactive cannabinoid in the plant called tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC.
Cannabinol, or CBD, is the other cannabinoid, which is used in medical marijuana. CBD does not cause a high when taken alone and, in fact, moderates the psychoactive effects. Research is being done to determine how medical marijuana can help treat or relieve symptoms of various diseases, including Parkinson’s disease.
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