Family Physician: A Friend to Depend On

Posted on: 20 April 2022

If you're like most people, you probably have many questions about medical cannabis. You may be unsure when your doctor might recommend it or how you can access it. This article discusses instances when you might get a medical cannabis recommendation from your doctor to improve your quality of life.

If You Have Seizure Disorders

Seizure disorders can be unpredictable and debilitating, making everyday activities difficult or even impossible. For some people, traditional medications may be ineffective in managing their condition.

However, medical cannabis can be a safe and effective treatment for seizure disorders. Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a compound found in marijuana that helps to reduce the frequency and severity of seizures by binding to receptors in the brain.

Keep in mind that seizure disorders are characterized by uncontrolled electrical activity in the brain, which can lead to various symptoms, including muscle spasms, convulsions, and loss of consciousness. Inflammation is a common feature of seizure disorders, and it is thought to contribute to the severity and frequency of seizures.

Medical cannabis can help reduce this inflammation, which may help to prevent future seizures. In addition, CBD is thought to have neuroprotective properties, which may help protect the brain from damage caused by seizures. 

If You Experience Nausea After Your Chemotherapy Sessions

Chemotherapy is a common cancer treatment that can cause symptoms like nausea and vomiting. These symptoms are often so severe that they lead to weight loss, dehydration, and electrolyte imbalances.

While different medications help reduce nausea, some people find that medical marijuana is more effective. Marijuana contains tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main psychoactive compound in cannabis.

This compound can help reduce chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. THC binds to the cannabinoid receptors in the brain. When these receptors are activated, they help to regulate nausea and the vomiting reflex.

In addition, THC activates certain neurons in the hypothalamus, which is the part of the brain responsible for regulating hunger. In addition, THC increases the level of ghrelin in the body. Ghrelin is a hormone that signals the body to release stomach acids and tells the brain that it is time to eat. As a result, patients struggling with a lack of appetite can find relief by using medical cannabis.

Generally, your doctor may recommend medical cannabis if you struggle to find relief from a condition that traditional medications have not been effective in treating. If you have a seizure disorder or experience nausea after your chemotherapy sessions, medical marijuana may be a safe and effective treatment option. Contact a medical cannabis doctor to learn more.