ALS Disease and Medical Marijuana

What is the ALS disease?

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a rare, progressive, neurological condition which is ultimately fatal. Motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord degenerate and die. The associated voluntary muscles waste away, resulting in muscle spasms, cramps, rigidity, pain and inflammation, and eventually paralysis. ALS usually strikes people between the ages of 40 and 70. The cause is unknown, and may be a combination of genetic factors and environmental triggers. There is a family history of ALS in only 10% of cases.

What are the symptoms of the ALS disease?

  • Common symptoms of ALS are:
  • Muscle weakness
  • Tripping, dropping things, clumsiness
  • Fatigue Stiff muscles
  • Wasting muscles
  • Speech impairments
  • Pain Periods of laughter or crying

How does medical marijuana help the ALS disease?

Medical marijuana can help manage the ALS disease symptoms and enhance the wellbeing of ALS patients by helping to relieve pain, relax muscles, stimulate appetite, induce sleep, reduce salivation, and improve breathing.

In addition to managing symptoms of the ALS disease, there is scientific evidence that cannabis might significantly slow the progression of the disease. A study done on mice in 2006 found that compounds that connected with a specific cannabinoid receptor (CB2) delayed ALS symptoms.

Studies conducted so far on the ALS disease and medical marijuana have involved only small numbers of patients, and have been largely based on surveys and personal testimonies. Preclinical data indicates that cannabis has powerful anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects.

Have Questions About Medical Marijuana for ALS?

Make an appointment today for a consultation at Green Relief in Kissimmee, Florida, to learn more about the treatment of ALS with medical marijuana.

 

Find Your Relief Today. At Green Relief.

The passing of Florida Amendment 2 now allows for Florida patients to now take advantage of Medical Marijuana as an alternative treatment for cancer pain relief!

Get Started Today

Further Reading on the ALS Disease and Medical Marijuana

@agreenrelief

Follow Us On Instagram