Medical Marijuana for Epilepsy
Revered as a sacred plant in ancient times, today Medical marijuana for epilepsy is gaining traction for its unique medicinal qualities. From anxiety and back pain to migraine and even epilepsy, MMJ has medicinal power for managing symptoms of debilitating illnesses. Epilepsy is a severe condition and research shows that a significant number of individuals in Florida with epilepsy are seeking medical treatment to manage their condition. Despite the availability of traditional medications, there is a need for a natural and holistic approach to wellness. Medical marijuana can work alongside conventional drugs to offer a healing effect on the body. Its chemical constituents, CBD and THC can be used for managing epilepsy.
This article will emphasize the causes and symptoms of epilepsy and how medical marijuana can help patients grappling with the symptoms.
Epilepsy- Explained
Epilepsy is a brain related disorder that causes abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Typically, brain cells send and receive messages from the brain to the body and vice versa. This transmission occurs through a continuous electric impulse. But in epilepsy, this transmission is disrupted and causes seizures.
Seizures are involuntary electric current-like activities that occur in the body. Epileptic seizures can lead to varying symptoms, such as changes in consciousness, movement, sensation, and behavior. Fortunately, epilepsy can be managed using various treatment options, however, understanding the possible cause is necessary for devising treatment strategies.
Causes of epilepsy
The causes of epilepsy are complex and varied. While genetics plays a significant role in some cases, it is important to note that epilepsy is not always inherited. Among some causes of epilepsy are:
- Head trauma
- Stroke
- Brain inflammation or infection
- Tumors
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Alcohol consumption
- High blood sugar
- Drug consumption
Epilepsy Symptoms
Although the symptoms of epilepsy vary from person to person it depends on the type of seizure. Nonetheless, here are some common symptoms of epilepsy:
- Muscle stiffness
- Loss of consciousness
- Anxiety
- weakness
- Slurred speech
- jerking of muscles
- Staring
- Aura
- Sudden fall
- Emotional changes
- A pale face
- Trembling
If you think you have any of these signs, it is best to contact a doctor with complete knowledge about epilepsy and its symptoms. They can help you to cope with the symptoms effectively.
Epilepsy treatment
There are various treatment options available for patients to cope with epilepsy, such as medication, surgery, and neuromodulation therapies. However, not all treatment options are suitable for every patient. Thus, only a doctor can suggest the best possible treatment option for management of the disease.
Medicine
Anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) are the primary treatment for epilepsy. Medications like sodium valproate and topiramate are examples of AEDs. They help to control seizures by regulating brain activity. Among some AEDs are:
- Sodium valproate
- Levetiracetam
- Lamotrigine
- Carbamazepine
- Topiramate
Vagus Nerve Stimulation
Vagus Nerve Stimulation is an advanced method of managing epilepsy. In this method, a small electric device is placed under your skin and is connected to the vagus nerve. It helps to minimize the frequency and severity of seizures for some patients.
Deep brain stimulation
The deep brain stimulation treatment method for epilepsy is also effective. Contrary to VNS, DBS involves implanting electrodes directly into certain areas of the brain. These electrodes deliver electrical signals to help regulate abnormal brain activity.
Medical Marijuana for epilepsy
The latest research shows that medical marijuana is one of the considerable alternative treatment options for epilepsy. Medical marijuana can help to manage epilepsy due to the presence of cannabinoids. Among some ways in which medical marijuana can help manage epilepsy are:
- Reduced seizure frequency
Medical marijuana can aid in reducing the seizure frequency in people with epilepsy. A study showed that the CBD component in medical marijuana lowers the frequency of seizure attacks, especially for those with Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome.
- Improved quality of life
By reducing seizure frequency and severity, CBD improves the overall quality of life for people with epilepsy. It assists in carrying out daily activities with more confidence and independence.
- Anti-inflammatory effects
Medical marijuana is considerable for epilepsy because it has an anti-inflammatory nature that helps reduce inflammation in the brain.
- Neuroprotection
Medical marijuana’s CBD component, which has neuroprotective effects, potentially helps to protect the brain from damage caused by seizures and inflammation.
Due to all the medical benefits, marijuana is among the considerable natural treatment options for individuals experiencing epilepsy. However, only a medical marijuana doctor can decide the right form and dosage of medical marijuana.
Conclusion
Epilepsy requires proper treatment and management as it cannot be left unaddressed. Therefore, health experts suggest different treatment options, such as brain surgery, and anti-epileptic drugs. Interestingly, medical marijuana shows a ray of hope for patients looking for natural methods of managing the symptoms. It contains healing compounds with remarkable medicinal effects. However, only a doctor can suggest the right dosage and form of marijuana.
