Medical marijuana could help people who have had a stroke by making their muscles less stiff and improving their quality of life. A recent study done in Italy looked at how medical marijuana affects the heart and blood vessels of people who have had a stroke. Let’s dive into what the study found and how medical marijuana can help stroke survivors manage their symptoms.
What Were the Results?
The study looked at a group of stroke survivors who were given medical marijuana orally in spray form. The results showed that those who took the cannabis extract had improved blood vessel and heart health, as well as better mobility. Patients who had had a stroke more than six months earlier noticed these changes the most. Also, these people said that they felt less tired and less depressed after taking the cannabis extract.
How Does Medical Marijuana Help Stroke Survivors?
Cannabinoids are the active compounds found in cannabis plants that interact with our body’s endocannabinoid system, or ECS, which helps regulate many different bodily functions such as appetite, sleep, mood, pain response, and more. Because they can interact with the ECS, cannabinoids like THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol) have been shown to help with muscle stiffness after a stroke. This is why more and more stroke survivors are turning to medical marijuana as a way to treat their symptoms without having to take strong medications or over-the-counter drugs.
Pros and Cons of Using Medical Marijuana Spray for Stroke Survivors
It is important to remember that using cannabis extracts as a treatment option for people who have had a stroke comes with both possible risks and benefits. On the one hand, it can be helpful because it can help loosen up stiff muscles without using heavy drugs or risky over-the-counter drugs. On the other hand, there is still much research being done on the long-term effects of cannabis use on brain health, so it is important to weigh all options before making any decisions about medicinal treatments.
Is Medical Marijuana Safe for Stroke Survivors?
The most important thing for stroke survivors to remember when considering using medical marijuana is that everyone’s situation is different and requires individualized attention from a healthcare provider or specialist. Even though research suggests that certain cannabis extracts may help with symptoms like stiff muscles after a stroke, it is always best to talk to your doctor before starting a new treatment plan, especially one that involves something as powerful as medical marijuana. Make an appointment with a Louisiana Medical Marijuana Doctor to talk about the possibility of using medical cannabis to treat the symptoms of a stroke.
