Medical marijuana is a promising drug alternative that has gained significant interest in recent years. This interest comes from the latest clinical trials and advanced research that has proven the benefits of MMJ for health. However, Marijuana laws vary from state to state, and so does the list of qualifying illnesses. In Florida, patients with migraine can use MMJ to manage their symptoms. However, the correct dose and method of consuming MMJ must be discussed with a medical marijuana doctor. Moreover, you must get your medical marijuana card Jacksonville, which can ease your process of purchasing medical marijuana.
In this article, we will elucidate the uses of medical marijuana for migraines while highlighting the importance of the lawful use of this drug.
Migraine: Explained
Migraine headaches are episodes of moderate to severe throbbing or pulsating pain on one side of the head. This pain originates from the activation of nerve fibers within the meninges, the three layers of protective membranes surrounding the brain and the spinal cord.
Attacks that are left untreated can linger for four to 72 hours. Additional typical symptoms include Enhanced light, sound, and smell sensitivity, nauseous feelings, and vomiting. Regular movement, physical exercise, and coughing or sneezing might intensify the headache. While many migraine sufferers experience weakness or exhaustion after an episode, they are typically symptom-free in between.
Certain variables might heighten your chance of experiencing a migraine. These different factors that can contribute to the starting of a headache are:
Motion sickness
Overexertion
Insufficient sleep
Excessive stress
Low blood sugar
Strong odors or fumes
Loud noises
Phases of migraine
Premonitory symptoms start to show up as early as 24 hours before a migraine attack. Food cravings, inexplicable mood swings (either euphoria or despair), excessive yawning, fluid retention, or increased urination are a few of these.
Aura
Aura, a precursor to or concurrent symptom of a migraine, can manifest as flashing or bright lights, a sensation of heat waves, or tactile hallucinations such as being touched or gripped.
Headache
A migraine often begins mildly and intensifies over time, but it can also occur in the absence of a headache.
Postdrome
After a migraine, people are frequently worn out or perplexed. People may experience a postdrome phase lasting up to a day before they resume feeling well.
Treatment for Migraine
Effective treatment for migraines is necessary as soon as you start having headaches. Some people require preventive medication if they get severe and regular migraines. In general, migraines that happen once a week or more, or those that are less frequent but incapacitating, should be prevented.
It is also advised for those who experience symptomatic headaches more than three times a week to take preventive medications. Physicians often suggest that individuals with chronic migraines consider taking preventive medication for two to three months to assess its effectiveness unless significant side effects arise.
Common ways to manage migraines
The goal of migraine treatment is to lessen symptoms and stop further attacks. Some standard methods to deal with a migraine involve:
Putting an ice pack or damp cloth on the forehead
Napping
resting with closed eyes in a quiet room
drinking lots of fluids
Medication Therapy for Migraine
There are two types of medication therapy for migraine, i.e. acute and preventative. Acute or "abortive" drugs are given as soon as symptoms emerge to reduce pain and restore function.
Preventive treatment involves taking medication daily to either prevent or lessen the severity of future attacks. It is important to know that the medication for headaches should be discussed with a physician, as some drugs may cause adverse effects.
Use of Medical Marijuana for Migraine Management
Cannabinoids are natural substances found in marijuana that can have therapeutic effects. When these cannabis-derived compounds are consumed, they enter your body and interact with receptors, potentially reducing pain by altering their function. Beyond pain, cannabinoids may also be beneficial for other medical conditions like anxiety, nausea, and muscular spasms.
THC is an intoxicating cannabis compound that can lead to euphoria or a sense of relaxation. On the other hand, Cannabidiol (CBD) may help ease discomfort and pain. CBD is already legal for medicinal use in many regions.
Evidence from Clinical Trials
Based on a study at the University of Colorado, 121 individuals with frequent migraine headaches used marijuana every day to avoid attacks. The results showed positive outcomes, suggesting that daily marijuana use may help in reducing the frequency of migraines.
Participants also reported a significant decrease in the number of attacks per month, with some reporting complete relief. Inhalation was the most effective method for migraine symptom relief, while edibles seemed less effective. Additionally, smoking or inhaling marijuana was associated with fewer side effects and better dosage control.
