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What Are Seizures?

 

A seizure is the body’s physical response to abnormal electrical activity that takes place in one or more regions of the brain. But not everyone who has a seizure is an epileptic.

 

In fact, many people who suffer from a seizure do not experience repeat occurrences. There are focal seizures, which occur in one specific part of the brain, and generalized seizures, which seem to affect multiple regions. Not all seizures result in convulsions or lack of consciousness, though some do.

 

The following list details the most common generalized seizures:

• Absence seizures: common in children, they’re defined by a blank stare and/or small, uncontrollable body movements.
• Clonic seizures: characterized by repetitive muscle movements, especially the arms and face.
• Myoclonic seizures: defined by the rapid onset of minor twitches or jerking of the limbs.
• Tonic seizures: characterized by stiffened muscles, especially in the back and limbs. Because this type can affect the legs and back, there’s an increased risk of falling.
• Atonic seizures: also know as “drop seizures,” they’re marked by a sudden loss of muscle control, which also boosts the chances of falling.
• Tonic-clonic seizures: previously known as grand mal seizures, they’re associated with loss of consciousness and convulsing that can cause a bitten tongue. They typically consist of a tonic phase, which lasts for less than 30 seconds, and a clonic phase, which can last up to two minutes.

 

What About Epilepsy?

 

Epilepsy is a seizure disorder that affects the central nervous system. Epileptic seizures are still caused by abnormal electrical brain activity, yet individuals with epilepsy are at risk of having recurring seizures because that abnormal brain activity is an ongoing condition.

 

In order to be diagnosed with epilepsy, you must have at least two or more unprovoked seizures, meaning it wasn’t triggered by external factors like low blood sugar, drug use or alcohol withdrawal.

 

What Causes a Seizure?

 

Because there are numerous types, there is no single cause. The three major are:

• Nonepileptic seizures mimic the symptoms of a seizure without the abnormal electrical activity in the brain that characterizes a “true” seizure. Can be caused by muscle disorders, certain psychological conditions or fainting.
• Epileptic seizures may be caused by brain injury, a brain tumor, or genetic predisposition. Not every case of epilepsy has a clearly defined cause.
• Provoked seizures are true seizures caused by abnormal brain activity, though not caused by continuous or recurring brain abnormalities and therefore aren’t related to epilepsy. Some factors that can prompt one include illicit drug abuse, substance withdrawal, or sudden internal variations in equilibrium (a drop in blood sugar).

 

These are the primary reasons for seizures, but the cause is different from a trigger. A seizure trigger is any event or occurrence that sets off abnormal electrical activity in the brain of an epileptic, which, in turn, activates a seizure.

 

Common triggers for epileptic seizures include (but aren’t limited to):

• Failing to take medication (or taking it improperly)
• Lack of sleep
• Alcohol (this includes dehydration or hangover the day after drinking)
• Illicit drugs
• Flashing or flickering lights
• Music

 

How Are Seizures Treated?

 

The way your doctor treats a seizure will depend on the underlying cause of that seizure. First, he or she will perform a variety of tests to determine why you experienced a seizure.

 

These may include a review of your family’s medical history, a panel of blood tests, an electroencephalogram (EEG) to measure brain activity, and imaging tests like a CT scan or an MRI. In cases where an infection is the suspected cause, the doc might order a lumbar puncture to test your cerebrospinal fluid.

 

If you experienced a provoked seizure or a nonepileptic seizure, the doctor will need to treat the underlying condition or circumstances that caused it. This may include medications, lifestyle changes, or detoxing/rehabilitation (in cases where seizures were caused by illicit drug use or alcohol withdrawal).

 

If your doctor diagnoses you with epilepsy, he or she may recommend certain medications to help control your seizures. Some people benefit from nerve stimulation treatments while, in extreme cases, doctors recommend surgery.

 

However, the majority of epileptics can control their seizures with prescription medication and lifestyle changes.

 

While cannabis probably won’t help individuals who’ve experienced a provoked seizure, some who live with epilepsy use it to help manage their symptoms.

 

Which States Allow Cannabis for Epilepsy and Seizure Disorders?

 

Cannabis laws significantly vary from state-to-state. However, the majority that allow medical cannabis recognize that citizens with seizure disorders may find relief by using cannabis.

 

Some states allow marijuana use for a variety of seizure disorders while others only authorize it for epileptics. Many states allow qualified patients to use a variety of cannabis products, including smokable flower, but some only permit patients to use non-psychotropic CBD oil that won’t make you feel “high.”

 

Check your state’s laws to better understand what, if any, forms of cannabis you may be permitted to consume for your condition.

 

The following states allow doctors to recommend the use of cannabis to treat epilepsy and other seizure disorders:

• Alaska
• Arizona
• Arkansas
• California
• Colorado
• Connecticut
• Delaware
• Florida
• Georgia (low-THC oil only)
• Hawaii
• Illinois
• Indiana (CBD oil only)
• Iowa (low-THC oil only, restricted to patients with epilepsy)
• Maine
• Maryland
• Michigan
• Minnesota
• Mississippi (CBD oil only)
• Missouri (CBD oil only, restricted to patients with epilepsy)
• Montana
• Nevada
• New Hampshire
• New Jersey
• New Mexico (restricted to patients with epilepsy)
• New York
• North Carolina (restricted to patients with epilepsy)
• North Dakota
• Ohio
• Oklahoma (CBD oil only)
• Oregon
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• South Carolina (CBD oil only)
• Tennessee (CBD oil only)
• Texas (CBD oil only, restricted to epileptic patients)
• Utah (CBD oil only, restricted to epileptic patients)
• Vermont
• Washington
• West Virginia (effective September 15, 2018)
• Wisconsin (CBD oil only)
• Wyoming (CBD oil only, restricted to epileptic patients)

 

Current Research on Cannabis and Seizure Disorders

 

A number of studies have examined whether cannabinoids like THC and CBD can help manage seizure disorder symptoms. Some researchers point out the fact that cannabis has reportedly been used to treat epilepsy and seizure disorders for hundreds of years.

 

While many studies and anecdotal reports produce positive results, further research is needed. Among cannabis treatment options, studies suggest that strains and oils high in CBD may offer promising results for some individuals.

 

This is why a number of states permit CBD oil but not smokable cannabis or extracts high in THC. Some researchers found that whole plant extracts may be more effective than synthetic pharmaceutical CBD.

 

How Do I Find the Best Cannabis for My Needs?

The first thing you’ll need to do is work with your doctor. He or she will know your medical history and is the only person who can safely determine whether cannabis is right for you. If you’re diagnosed with epilepsy or any seizure disorder and live in a MMJ state, your doctor may recommend cannabis if he or she believes it can help.

 

When it comes to medical cannabis, there’s a lot to consider. Once your doctor has written an MMJ recommendation, Nugg’s Cannabis Concierge team will help you get started! We have knowledgeable experts who’ll provide information on different cannabis products, recommend some to suit your condition, and show you where to get them. Reach out to Nugg’s free concierge service today and learn more about the wonders of medical cannabis.

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Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only. While the content is accurate and true to the best of our knowledge, the author is not a medical professional. There may be omissions, errors, and mistakes. Therefore, never solely rely on the information in this, or any other post on our site or affiliated sites, for medical advice. This post does not create a physician/patient relationship with any of Nugg or NuggMD’s affiliated staff or physicians.

 

What Is Chronic Pain?

 

Chronic pain is a continuous sensation that does not involve a constant external stimulus. In order to qualify as chronic pain, the sensation must persist for over 12 weeks. Often times, chronic pain is the lingering result of an old injury – the initial wound or sprain has healed, but there’s lasting pain that can persist for months or years.

 

There are four main categories of chronic pain:

• Mechanical/compressive pain: pain experienced while stretching or touching affected parts of the body. If you have a tumor or a fractured bone, you may experience mechanical pain when you touch the affected area.
• Inflammatory pain: due to internal inflammation caused by arthritis, injury or infection.
• Muscle pain: injury or frequently repeated movement can cause chronic muscle pain in the neck, shoulders, back, arms, hips or legs.
• Neuropathic pain: primarily affects the nervous system and may be caused by several factors.

 

Most forms of chronic pain vary in terms of how patients experience pain: it may be dull or sharp, achy or burning, constant or intermittent. Neuropathy, on the other hand, is typically experienced as a burning, shooting or stabbing sensation often accompanied by tingling or “pins and needles.” It may also include an intense sensitivity to touch or temperature.

 

What Causes Chronic Pain and Neuropathy?

 

Chronic pain is frequently caused by the following:

• Injuries
• Arthritis  
• Back problems  
• Illness (including cancer)

 

Chronic pain can also be caused by other conditions. It can even appear without any clear external injury or illness.

 

Some common causes of neuropathy include, but are not limited to:

• Diabetes
• Traumatic injuries (car accidents, athletic injuries, etc)
• Autoimmune diseases
• Infections
• Organ or thyroid complications
• Vitamin deficiencies
• Alcoholism
• Tumor growth
• Sciatic nerve complications
• Certain pharmaceutical medications, including medications used in chemotherapy

 

Only your doctor can properly diagnose whether you have chronic pain or neuropathy. He or she will evaluate your symptoms and may perform blood work, imaging examinations (like an MRI or a CT scan), nerve function evaluations, or biopsies.

 

How Are Chronic Pain and Neuropathy Treated?

 

If chronic pain is caused by an injury, infection or illness, your doctor will need to treat those underlying ailments in to reduce your pain. In other cases of chronic pain, medication and lifestyle changes (acupuncture, exercise, massage, etc.) may be recommended. There is no single course of action for treating chronic pain, and your doctor will determine what treatment plan is best for you.

 

Some common medications to treat chronic pain include:

• NSAIDs
• Opioid/Narcotic pharmaceutical medications
• Topical treatments (balms, creams, patches)
• Antidepressants (if the chronic pain is causing depression)
• Sedatives, anxiolytics, and sleep medications (if the pain is causing trouble sleeping)
• Corticosteroids

 

Doctors treating neuropathic pain may recommend any of the following treatments:

• NSAIDs
• Opioid medications
• Anti-seizure medications
• Antidepressants
• Creams, balms, or salves for topical use

 

Your neurologist may also recommend physical therapy, electrical nerve stimulation, plasma exchange or surgery, depending on the cause of your neuropathy. In addition to these options, some individuals with chronic pain or neuropathy turn to cannabis for symptom relief.

 

Which States Allow Cannabis for Chronic Pain and Neuropathy?

 

Many states allow doctors to recommend MMJ to treat chronic pain. Other states have laws governing medical cannabis use specifically for patients with neuropathy. States that legalize cannabis for all chronic pain include:

• Alaska
• Arizona
• Arkansas
• California
• Colorado
• Connecticut
• Delaware
• Florida
• Hawaii
• Illinois
• Maryland
• Michigan
• Minnesota
• Montana
• Nevada
• New Hampshire
• New Jersey
• New Mexico
• New York
• North Dakota
• Ohio
• Oregon
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• Vermont
• Washington
• West Virginia

 

Of those states, the following permit medical cannabis specifically for neuropathy:

• Arkansas
• Connecticut
• Illinois
• Montana
• New Mexico
• New York
• North Dakota
• Pennsylvania
• West Virginia

 

Current Research About Cannabis and Chronic Pain/Neuropathy

 

Generally speaking, there haven’t been enough conclusive clinical trials for the medical community to universally accept cannabis as a legitimate treatment option. However, a number of individual studies have shown promise.

 

One research study found that cannabis produced some neuropathic pain relief for a number of people with neuropathy caused by HIV. Some chronic pain studies found that cannabis helped patients reduce pain, with one study also concluding that some individuals reported greater quality of life scores as a result of their pain relief.

 

Other studies found that cannabis treatments reduced opioid use/dependence. One report found a 64% reduction in opioid use for chronic pain patients who used cannabis. This aspect of chronic pain treatment may be particularly significant, as opioid use has the potential to cause dependence, addiction, overdose, slowed respiration, lowered heart rate and death.

 

By contrast, cannabis use may lead to dependence in some, but it doesn’t pose the severe, potentially fatal risks that opiates do.

 

How Do I Find the Best Cannabis for My Needs?

 

First, get a diagnosis. If you’ve been diagnosed with chronic pain or neuropathy, talk to your doctor about a treatment plan and find out if cannabis would help your symptoms.

 

Live in a medical cannabis state? You may qualify for a cannabis rec. If you live in a state with legal recreational marijuana, you can easily access numerous treatment options with or without a doctor.

 

If you qualify for medical cannabis in your state, learn more from Nugg’s Cannabis Concierge service. The Nugg team can help you find dispensaries and can provide information about individual strains, edibles, topicals and other cannabis products. Reach out to learn more about how you can use cannabis to treat your condition.

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Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only. While the content is accurate and true to the best of our knowledge, the author is not a medical professional. There may be omissions, errors, and mistakes. Therefore, never solely rely on the information in this, or any other post on our site or affiliated sites, for medical advice. This post does not create a physician/patient relationship with any of Nugg or NuggMD’s affiliated staff or physicians.

 

Three Subtypes of Breast Cancer

 

Before we discuss this study’s significance, let’s briefly cover some breast cancer basics. There are three main subtypes:

• Hormone receptor-positive
• Human epidermal growth factor receptor two (HER2) positive
• Triple-negative

 

Hormone receptor-positive means the breast cancer tumor contains receptors for either of the female sex hormones, estrogen or progesterone. The most common form of breast cancer, hormone receptor-positive, accounts for about 65% of all cases.

 

Then we have HER2 positive cases, which involve a genetic mutation in the HER2 receptor. This receptor is in charge of cell division and growth in the breast. The mutation causes the body to make too many HER2 proteins, resulting in uncontrolled growth of breast cells. About 20% of breast cancer patients have the HER2 positive type, which can also be hormone receptor-negative or hormone receptor-positive. Typically, HER2 positive cases of breast cancer test negative for estrogen and progesterone receptors.

 

Lastly, triple-negative breast cancer is the least common and most aggressive form among these three subtypes. Triple-negative breast cancer gets its name from the fact that it lacks receptors for estrogen, progesterone, and HER2. Only about 15% of breast cancer patients have this type.

 

Why is the lack of these receptors distressing? When it comes to breast cancer treatment, hormone receptor-positive and HER2 positive types currently have more options. When scientists can identify receptors that lead to tumor growth, they can develop prescription drugs to target those receptors.

 

Treatment for hormone receptor-positive breast cancer may include medications that block hormone communication or reduce estrogen production. Similarly, drugs that specifically target HER2 receptors, such as trastuzumab, are an option for women with HER2 positive breast cancer.

 

On the other hand, women with early-stage triple-negative breast cancer have fewer treatment options and usually need chemotherapy. This makes the triple-negative type particularly interesting to scientists in search of novel treatments and medications.

 

Now that we understand the foundations of breast cancer types and treatments, let’s examine the exciting discoveries this study reveals!

 

Shattering the Cellular DNA of Cancer Cells

 

Previous studies suggest that CBD induces apoptosis (cell death) in cancer cells through the human body’s naturally occurring cannabinoid receptors, as well as through our vanilloid receptors – the molecular gateway to our pain pathway. Expanding on this knowledge, Sultan and colleagues focused on how CBD affects two populations of breast cancer cells: estrogen receptor-positive (ER-positive) subtype, T-47D, and another triple negative subtype, MDA-MB-231.

 

You’d think scientists could come up with better names, right?

 

But Sultan et al. didn’t choose these populations based on snazzy names. Known as “immortalized cell lines,” these two populations grow indefinitely in culture dishes, providing researchers with a continuously dividing supply of cancerous cells to work on.

 

The researchers found that adding CBD in a dose-dependent manner causes both cell lines to undergo significant structural changes that inhibit cell survival and activate apoptosis.

 

In English, that means the more CBD you add to these two populations of breast cancer cells, the more the cells shrivel up and die. But the cancer cells don’t simply die; their cellular DNA shatters into fragments. Their mitochondria, or energy powerhouses, cease to function. Eventually, your body recognizes these broken shreds of cancer as cellular garbage and promptly disposes of them. Basically, CBD is like Godzilla, totally crushing the most common and most difficult-to-treat cancer cells.  

 

Now that you have the visual of a giant reptilian monster squashing cancer cells like buildings in a single stomp, the non-fiction piece of this story gets even better.

 

Cancer Cell Destruction and Tumor Shrinkage

 

In this 2018 study, Sultan et al. go on to describe the underlying mechanisms behind this cancer-killing monster. To do this, they examine three key players in cancer development:

• Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR): involved in regulating cell growth, proliferation, and survival
• Cyclin D1: a protein that causes a cell to start copying its DNA in preparation to divide
• Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ): a ligand-binding transcription factor that plays a role in cellular proliferation and apoptosis

 

Before I lose you, let’s break this down.

 

Overstimulation of the mTOR pathway can cause cells to grow and divide out of control. This may then initiate tumor development in many parts of the body, including the breast.

 

Additionally, overstimulation of the mTOR pathway leads to overexpression of cyclin D1, which ultimately causes uncontrolled cell division.

 

Lastly, PPARγ is a transcription factor, meaning it’s a protein that can bind to DNA and regulate gene expression. PPARγ has been found to reduce the growth rate and malignancy of breast cancer cells, making it the sole factor we want to see more of out of these three.

 

So how does CBD affect mTOR, cyclin D1, and PPARγ in these two breast cancer cell lines?

 

Remember, PPARγ is a ligand-binding transcription factor. CBD is the ligand it binds to. This CBD-PPARγ complex suppresses mTOR expression along with the downstream production of cyclin D1. When cyclin D1 activity declines, PPARγ activity increases even more, leading to the destruction of cancer cells and shrinkage of tumors.

 

Importance of Scientific Research

 

Not only does this study at the Egyptian university propose CBD as a beneficial treatment for two subtypes of breast cancer – one that accounts for about 65% of cases and the other particularly difficult to treat – it demonstrates the importance of scientific research on the medical applications of cannabis.

 

But cannabis research is no easy feat; major regulatory roadblocks must be overcome. For example, cannabis remains illegal at the federal level, where it’s listed as a Schedule 1 drug. In order for an organization to conduct research, it must submit an application to the DEA, requesting a special license to work with Schedule 1 substances – a process that can take a year or longer (filled with intimidating hurdles).

 

Even with the DEA’s permission, researchers can only study cannabis from one authorized provider known as “the farm” at the University of Mississippi. This provider grows specific strains under contract with the National Institute on Drug About – not quite the caliber of cannabis we see in the marketplace.

 

Despite these challenges, scientists are moving forward with new cannabis research projects at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), the University of California, Irvine (UCI) and the University of California, San Diego (UCSD), to name a few. When there’s a will, there’s a way.

 

If you have any questions about this article or want to learn more about cannabis as a cancer treatment, head over to Nugg’s Cannabis Concierge. Our expert team is happy to answer any cannabis-related questions you have.

 

Convenience Is King

 

The booming on-demand economy thrives on the fact that people value convenience above all else. In fact, convenience is a commodity people are willing to pay a little extra for.

 

The popularity of meal delivery kits is a perfect example. Blue Apron founder and CEO Matt Salzberg recently told CNBC, “Every other retail category has been disrupted by e-commerce, and the same is now happening with food. It’s interesting to see all of this innovation happening.”

 

Similar to food and other consumable commodities, on-demand cannabis delivery services offer the same convenience in states where recreational marijuana is legal. If you think avoiding the grocery store is convenient, imagine how nice it feels to bypass a crowded dispensary. Since only a few customers are allowed inside a dispensary at once, you never know how long you’ll be waiting.

 

Here at Nugg, we want to make life easier for you! Designed to deliver exactly what you want, we consider ourselves the “Grubhub of cannabis.”

 

Our model saves you time and a trip to the dispensary without giving up the expertise of a professional budtender. Nugg’s Cannabis Concierge is available 24/7 to answer any questions you may have. Before purchasing you can ask an expert about different products, dosages and effects from the comfort and privacy of home.

 

Time Is Money

 

America’s legal cannabis market is projected to grow to $24 billion by 2025, and those dollars aren’t coming from the deep recesses of your stereotype stoner’s couch cushions. Today’s upscale cannabis consumers are CEOs, healthcare providers, and busy parents striving to juggle the demands of a fast-paced life.

 

Streamlining service for cannabis consumers offers the same efficient experience as grocery delivery and other helpful online businesses. Not only does Nugg save you the time traveling to and from a dispensary, a quick chat with our Cannabis Concierge reduces your overall time spent shopping. That leaves you with more precious minutes to spend as you wish.

 

We Like Options

 

One of the major benefits of meal kits and grocery delivery services is the variety they introduce to your dinner table without the hassle of hunting down obscure ingredients. These services make a wide assortment of options available to consumers, no matter where they live.

 

For people with limited choices in nearby grocery stores, food delivery may be more of a necessity than a luxury. Similarly, cannabis delivery services allow patients and recreational consumers to sample a diverse array of products from various dispensaries.

 

Personalization Is Crucial

 

In addition to changes in the way we acquire goods, the shopping experience as a whole is evolving to satisfy consumers’ individual tastes. 

 

Take, for example, the monthly wine subscription expertly curated based on your personal palate, or a fashion box full of clothes someone selected to suit your unique style.  

 

Even your dog can get a regular delivery of his favorite treats and goodies. Isn’t it only natural to expect the same personalized service with pot?

 

This white paper on The State of Retail states, “In the US, 59% of consumers want real-time personal offers designed especially for them.” Even more than that, though, they want expertise. “78% feel sales associates should have a deep knowledge of the entire product range.”

 

Lab Tested Products

 

Long-time cannabis consumers who shopped on the black market understood that the flower and edibles they purchased weren’t lab-tested for purity or potency. But without other options, they had to accept the risk that they were consuming products that could be significantly stronger (or weaker) than they wanted. Likewise, they couldn’t be sure the strain they just purchased was free of contaminants, like pesticides and heavy metals.

 

As cannabis use is legitimized and licensed dispensaries open their doors, consumers can trust that they are receiving lab tested products, ensuring THC levels are accurately labeled and contaminants have been removed. This not only delivers a safer experience, but also a more flavorful one.

 

Full-Service Cannabis

 

At Nugg, we couldn’t agree more. That’s why we’re proud to offer the industry’s first full-service cannabis experience.

 

A Cannabis Concierge is there for you, at any hour, to help find the most effective products for your needs. Have medical or legal questions? These tried-and-tested experts can answer anything marijuana related so you can use it with complete confidence.

 

Now that scientific research is available to explain the various effects of different cannabinoids and terpenes, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Nugg’s friendly, knowledgeable Cannabis Concierges are ready to share current cannabis information and apply their expertise to meet your needs.

 

Our Cannabis Concierge isn’t a sales team and never pressures you to buy a product, they only provide facts to empower you to make the best decision. We only partner with dispensaries that adhere to the highest quality customer service, always ensuring an easy and pleasant experience.

 

 

What Is IBD?

 

IBD is a category of bowel diseases that includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Both bear similar symptoms. The most common symptoms of IBD are debilitating pain, abdominal cramping, diarrhea (sometimes with blood), nausea, exhaustion, and sudden (unintentional) weight loss.

 

The symptoms of IBD are due to inflammation of the GI tract. Sores along your GI tract may develop during flare-ups, which is why bloody stool is commonly-reported. Ulcerative colitis typically develops on the surface of the tissue along the large intestine, while Crohn’s disease affects deeper tissue layers at any point along the GI tract, from the mouth to the anus.

 

Although IBD is not fatal, it can cause serious complications. Ulcerative colitis can cause extreme dehydration, colon perforation and swelling (“toxic megacolon”). Crohn’s disease may lead to malnutrition, ulcers, fistulas around the anus, a tear/fissure in the anus, and a swollen obstruction of the bowels that may need surgical removal.

 

What Causes IBD?

 

Doctors don’t completely understand the causes of IBD. Some researchers suspect it may be the result of a malfunction in the body’s immune system as the GI tract is attacked instead of (or in addition to) foreign microbes.

 

A number of other factors may determine whether IBD develops, including environmental issues, but studies suggest that family history of IBD is one of the most significant predictors. Taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may also cause IBD to develop, and it has been shown to trigger flare-ups in people with existing IBD. Many with IBD also find that stress may occasionally cause flare-ups.

 

How Is IBD Treated?

 

Your doctor will need to confirm you have either ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease before treatment. Both are typically identified via blood tests, imaging (X-rays, CT scan, or MRI), an endoscopy, or a colonoscopy.

 

If the doctor has confirmed that you have IBD, he or she may recommend taking prescription-strength anti-inflammatory drugs, immune system suppressors, antibiotics, and/or anti-diarrheal drugs. Your doc may also suggest taking over-the-counter pain medication to help manage the discomfort and cramping associated, but some pain medications like ibuprofen may worsen the IBD symptoms.

 

In addition to these medications, some people also use cannabis to help treat the symptoms of Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

 

Which States Allow Cannabis Treatment For IBD?

 

A number of states authorize cannabis use for any IBD diagnosis, while others require a specific diagnosis of Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. As you can see from the lists below, there’s some overlap, but Crohn’s disease seems to be a more broadly-covered qualifying condition across the United States.

 

New Jersey, New York, Ohio, and Pennsylvania all consider the umbrella diagnosis of IBD to be a qualifying condition for medicinal cannabis use. Several states have authorized the use of cannabis specifically for ulcerative colitis, including Arkansas, Connecticut, New Hampshire, New Mexico, and Ohio.

 

The following states have listed Crohn’s disease as a qualifying condition:

• Arizona
• Arkansas (also lists ulcerative colitis)
• Connecticut (also lists ulcerative colitis)
• Florida
• Georgia
• Hawaii
• Illinois
• Louisiana
• Maine
• Massachusetts
• Michigan
• Minnesota
• Montana
• New Hampshire (also lists ulcerative colitis)
• New Jersey (also lists IBD)
• New Mexico (also lists ulcerative colitis)
• North Dakota
• Ohio (also lists IBD and ulcerative colitis)
• Pennsylvania (also lists IBD)
• Rhode Island
• Vermont
• Washington
• West Virginia

 

Current Research About Cannabis and IBD

 

Studies indicate cannabis use is statistically common among individuals with both forms of IBD. There’s been a lack of long-term, clinical trials involving cannabis and IBD, but the conducted studies suggest that cannabis may bring symptom relief for some patients.

 

One study found that 10 out of 11 patients with Crohn’s disease achieved significant, clinically-measured relief of their symptoms after an eight-week trial period. Another study found that patients living with IBD experienced a significant reduction in both pain and diarrhea, though the authors cautioned that increased cannabis use may overlap with a higher risk of surgery in patients diagnosed with Crohn’s disease.

 

Dose and Ratio Matter

 

While some researchers have found that THC may be helpful in IBD patients treating pain and diarrhea symptoms, patients should not overlook the potential benefits of CBD. In one study, researchers induced colitis in laboratory mice and found that non-psychotropic cannabidiol (CBD) actually prevented colon inflammation! Talk to your doctor to find out if cannabis may help relieve some of your unpleasant IBD symptoms.

 

How Do I Find the Best Cannabis for My Needs?

 

First, talk to your doctor to determine whether cannabis may be right for you. If you live in a state where IBD, Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis is considered a qualifying condition, you might be eligible to use your state’s medical cannabis program.

 

Once you qualify for medical cannabis, Nugg’s Concierge service can help you find the information you need on specific strains, cannabis products, and where to find those strains/products so you can start treating the symptoms of IBD.

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Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only. While the content is accurate and true to the best of our knowledge, the author is not a medical professional. There may be omissions, errors, and mistakes. Therefore, never solely rely on the information in this, or any other post on our site or affiliated sites, for medical advice. This post does not create a physician/patient relationship with any of Nugg or NuggMD’s affiliated staff or physicians.

 

What Are Migraines?

 

You may have heard the terms “headache” and “migraine” used interchangeably, but these are two very different experiences – migraines involve headaches, but not all headaches are migraines.

 

A headache is simply the symptom of pain in some region of the head. Headaches are caused by a number of factors and tend to pass within a few hours, though some extreme headaches may last several days.

 

By contrast, a migraine is typically characterized by intense pain, a throbbing sensation around one or both temples, and secondary symptoms including photosensitivity (sensitivity to light), sensitivity to sound, nausea, vomiting, body tingling and difficulty speaking. Some people also experience visual distortions, called an aura, before or during a migraine. Auras can be blobs of light, sparks, zigzags or dots that typically last under an hour, though not everyone experiences them.

 

Some migraines come on suddenly, while others may develop over a period of one to two days. Warning signs often include rapid changes in mood, constipation, muscle tightness, and a dramatic increase in thirst and urination.

 

The headaches associated with a migraine can last up to 72 hours, though treatment usually helps reduce their duration. Some migraines pass within a couple of hours. As the migraine recedes, common after-effects include dizziness, disorientation, irritability, fatigue/weakness, continued light and sound sensitivity.

 

Your doctor may perform a variety of tests before diagnosing you with migraines. These may be simple blood tests, imaging tests like an MRI or CT scan, or a lumbar puncture to analyze your spinal fluid.

 

What Causes a Migraine?

 

Migraines are commonly caused by a nonfatal genetic abnormality in the brain. That abnormality involves an overactive cluster of nerves that cause the surrounding blood vessels to expand and release serotonin and other chemicals, which in turn causes inflammation in the affected area(s).

 

A number of factors determine who gets migraines. Individuals with a family history of migraines may be more likely to experience this debilitating condition. In fact, some studies suggest that if a parent has migraines their children have a 50% likelihood of developing them too.

 

Age may also be a factor, as most people experience peak migraine symptoms during their early- to late-30s. Women are more prone to migraines than men, and some researchers have suggested that migraines may correspond with hormonal shifts associated with the menstrual cycle and/or pregnancy. They tend to get worse during pregnancy and taper off after menopause.

 

If you’re prone to migraines, certain factors may worsen the symptoms of an attack or even induce one. Some common triggers for migraines include:

• Skipping meals
• Eating salty or processed foods
• Eating aged cheese
• Drinking alcohol or caffeine
• Stress
• Bright lights (hence the sensitivity to light) as well as powerful aromas
• Strenuous physical activities
• A change in atmospheric pressure
• Certain medications, including blood pressure medicines and oral contraceptives

 

How Are Migraines Treated?

 

There’s no cure for migraines, but medications and lifestyle changes may help control the frequency and intensity of attacks. Only your doctor can diagnose you with migraines and advise you on how to treat symptoms.

 

Many people with migraines rely on over-the-counter pain relievers, including acetaminophen, aspirin or ibuprofen. Some also take anti-nausea medications to help manage the vomiting and/or nausea that often accompanies migraines.

 

Your doctor may recommend a prescription medication if over-the-counter medications are inefficient or cause significant side effects. Some common medications used to treat or prevent migraines include:

• Triptans (serotonin receptor agonists)  
• Ergots (often combined with caffeine)
• Nausea medications
• Glucocorticoids
• Opioid pain relievers: typically prescribed as a last resort when other treatment options have failed
• Beta blockers: prescribed as a preventative treatment
• Antidepressants: prevent migraines by regulating serotonin levels and other neurotransmitters
• Seizure prevention medications: used to curb the frequency at which migraines take place
• Botox injections
• Erenumab-aooe injections

 

In addition to prescription and over-the-counter pharmaceuticals, some individuals use cannabis to help treat the symptoms of migraines.

 

Which States Allow Cannabis Treatment for Migraines?

 

The number of states that explicitly consider migraines as a qualifying condition are limited to California, Connecticut, and New Jersey. As more states adopt medical cannabis laws and expand existing qualifying condition lists, it’s possible that other states will allow patients to use cannabis for migraines in the future.

 

Current Research About Cannabis and Migraines

 

Studies show that lab rats with induced migraine symptoms experienced significant relief from THC administered in a controlled dose and schedule. Other studies surrounding human cannabis use suggest that cannabis may be an effective anti-inflammatory treatment for some individuals, which may be a promising discovery given the role inflammation appears to play in migraine attacks.

 

However, other researchers believe that cannabis use may actually cause headaches in some people. Further research is needed. So if you suffer from migraines, ask your doctor whether cannabis could help treat your symptoms and what (if any) side effects you might experience.

 

Dose and Ratio Matter

 

Some studies propose that balanced, measured THC/CBD treatments may help with migraines. Cannabis has been used to treat migraine symptoms for hundreds of years–especially indica strains–and researchers note that smoking cannabis offers quick pain and nausea relief associated with them. However, those same researchers also raised concerns that cannabis may cause a risk of dependence in some individuals.

 

In addition to treating the symptoms of an existing migraine attack, some researchers found that cannabis use between attacks may help prevent future migraines.

 

How Do I Find the Best Cannabis for My Needs?

 

Before you begin using cannabis for migraines or any other ailment, you should talk to your doctor to determine whether cannabis is right for you. He or she should be familiar with your medical history to make recommendations for or against cannabis.

 

If your doctor has recommended cannabis and you’re not sure where to begin, Nugg’s concierge service will give the help you need. Their Cannabis Concierge team at Nugg can provide you with information on specific cannabis flower, vapes, edibles and other products plus where to get them if you live in a state that allows MMJ for migraines.

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Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only. While the content is accurate and true to the best of our knowledge, the author is not a medical professional. There may be omissions, errors, and mistakes. Therefore, never solely rely on the information in this, or any other post on our site or affiliated sites, for medical advice. This post does not create a physician/patient relationship with any of Nugg or NuggMD’s affiliated staff or physicians.

 

What Is PTSD?

 

PTSD is a mental health condition that can affect anyone who has survived a traumatic or life-threatening experience. PTSD often afflicts individuals who have been involved in military combat, survived a terrorist attack, experienced a severe accident or natural disaster, or been the victim of assault, though other traumatic events can also lead to PTSD.

 

Individuals living with PTSD typically exhibit recurring symptoms from each of the following categories for at least one month:

• Re-experiencing the event through intrusive memories, flashbacks, and/or vivid nightmares.
• Avoiding discussion of the incident and/or avoiding places or things that trigger re-experiencing symptoms.
• Feeling tense, being easily upset or startled, and/or experiencing unpredictable moments of rage or terror (often called “hyperarousal”).
• Blocking memories of the event and/or experiencing the symptoms of severe depression (guilt/blame, withdrawal, low self-esteem).

 

Currently, there’s no known cure for PTSD, but therapy and other treatments can help manage symptoms, making it easier to cope with daily life. Experts recommend trauma-centered psychotherapy, prolonged exposure (PE) therapy, cognitive processing therapy (CPT), and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy.

 

In addition, some emerging research suggests that many individuals with PTSD use cannabis to manage their anxiety during the day and to sleep more easily at night.

 

Which States Allow Cannabis Treatment for PTSD?

 

While qualifying symptoms for medical cannabis treatments vary from state to state, PTSD is a common symptom across many states that have approved medical cannabis use. As of 2018, the following states have recognized PTSD as a qualifying condition for MMJ treatments:

• Arizona
• Arkansas
• Colorado
• Connecticut
• Delaware
• Florida
• Georgia (CBD only)
• Hawaii
• Illinois
• Louisiana (non-smokable cannabis products only)
• Maine
• Maryland
• Michigan
• Minnesota
• Montana
• Nevada
• New Hampshire
• New Jersey
• New Mexico
• New York (non-smokable cannabis products only)
• North Dakota
• Ohio
• Oregon
• Pennsylvania (flower is permitted but must be vaporized, not smoked)
• Rhode Island
• Vermont
• Washington
• West Virginia (non-smokable cannabis products only)

 

Current Research About Cannabis and PTSD

 

There’s been substantial research on cannabis and PTSD. So far, though, that research has mostly involved observational studies or correlative reports. Much of the existing research to date hasn’t included large-scale, long-term, randomized control studies measuring the cannabis’ efficacy as a PTSD treatment option.

 

How Some Patients Use Cannabis for PTSD

 

Even though there’s a lack of large-scale clinical studies, researchers are investigating whether cannabis can help PTSD sufferers improve their sleep quality, reduce nightmares, and manage hyperarousal/anxiety symptoms.

 

Studies have also sought to determine whether cannabis may help control neurotransmitter functions, alter the memory process, and improve overall mood. Further research (including clinical, reproducible results) is necessary to better understand the role cannabis may play in treating the symptoms of PTSD.

 

Potential Side Effects of Using Cannabis for PTSD

 

Some studies suggest that cannabis use may be problematic among people with PTSD. Researchers have expressed concerns about possible dependence and withdrawal symptoms in some patients.

 

In addition to these concerns, it’s worth remembering that researchers don’t fully understand the relationship between cannabis and anxiety. Because PTSD often causes anxiety and hyperarousal of panic in many, anyone considering using medicinal cannabis should proceed with caution. If you have PTSD and are prone to anxious reactions, talk to your primary physician about these and other potential risks associated with using cannabis.

 

Dose and Ratio Matter

 

Recreational cannabis customers often choose strains or edibles with the highest THC content. However, high doses of THC may not always be best for someone with serious medical needs, including patients with PTSD.

 

Instead of a high-THC product, ask your budtender about a high-CBD option. Researchers are investigating whether CBD may offer potential health benefits that include managing the symptoms of generalized anxiety, which could have implications for patients living with PTSD. Some cannabis strains with high CBD include Charlotte’s Web, ACDC and Ringo’s Gift. There are also many high-CBD/low-THC concentrates, edibles, tinctures, and sublingual sprays.

 

Also check which terpenes, the aromatic hydrocarbons that give cannabis its unique smell and taste, are in your flower or concentrates. Terpenes may offer their own additional therapeutic benefits, which is nothing new. Multiple studies indicate that linalool, found in lavender and numerous cannabis strains, may offer anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects in some. However, aromatherapy isn’t recognized as a legitimate treatment option and more research is needed.

 

Try keeping a written record of which strains/concentrates/tinctures you’ve tried, how you were feeling before and after, and any overall impressions you had. This will help identify which strains and products work best for you.

 

How Do I Find the Best Cannabis for My Needs?

 

Start by talking to your doctor about your needs as a PTSD patient. He or she may advise you to avoid cannabis altogether or may have some recommendations, like sticking with CBD. No one besides your doctor can determine whether cannabis can help or worsen your symptoms.

 

Where to Go for Help

 

We understand you may have more questions, and we’re here to help. Nugg’s cannabis concierge service connects you with a team of experts who can address your questions or concerns. Nugg’s Cannabis Concierge can also share product information as well as overall emerging industry knowledge. Trust Nugg to help you meet your needs and give you the answers you want and talk to your doctor about treating your PTSD symptoms.

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Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only. While the content is accurate and true to the best of our knowledge, the author is not a medical professional. There may be omissions, errors, and mistakes. Therefore, never solely rely on the information in this, or any other post on our site or affiliated sites, for medical advice. This post does not create a physician/patient relationship with any of Nugg or NuggMD’s affiliated staff or physicians.