Epilepsy is a challenging health problem and research indicates that 1.2% of people in the United States have active epilepsy. However, there are certain treatments that can help to manage its symptoms. In the modern age, due to the rise in popularity of natural alternative medicine, medical marijuana is in the spotlight. It is among the natural drug alternatives that can help patients coping with epileptic seizures. The beneficial effects of medical marijuana are due to the presence of CBD and THC constituents. Nonetheless, you must get a medical marijuana card Sarasota before using this drug for your ailment.
This article focuses on epilepsy, discussing its various types and exploring medical marijuana as a potential alternative treatment option for managing the condition.
What you need to know about Epilepsy
Epilepsy is a brain related disorder that often causes frequent seizures. In general, the brain constantly generates small electrical impulses. These impulses are carried by neurons through chemical messengers known as neurotransmitters.
In patients with epilepsy, brain activity becomes unbalanced, leading to seizures. Electrical energy bursts affect regular brain functions. Thus, an individual’s consciousness and body movements are affected for a short span.
Warning Signs of Epilepsy
The warning signs of epilepsy often vary among individuals. Among some of them are:
- muscular tension
- Involuntary arm and leg movements
- loss of consciousness
- anxiety or fear
- Staring spells
- Confusion
- Difficulty speaking
- Unexplained bowel or bladder accidents
Seizures have further categories, each with its unique signs and symptoms. As a result, only clinicians can distinguish the type of seizure you have based on your symptoms.
Types of Seizures
Based on a study, there are two types of seizures i.e. Focal and Generalized seizures. Focal seizures manifest on one side of the brain or in a small area of the brain. They can result in behavioral changes, and abnormal movements affecting one side of the body. However, it is possible for such seizures to spread to both sides of the body resulting in lack of awareness or consciousness.
Generalized seizures manifest at the same time on both sides of the brain. They can lead to unconsciousness and may also cause abnormal movements on both sides of the body.
Tonic: Muscles become stiff, and consciousness may be impacted.
Atonic convulsions: This condition leads patients to frequently collapse and lose balance while standing.
Clonic seizures: characterized by jerking, repetitive, or rhythmic muscular movements affecting the arms, face, and neck.
Myoclonic seizures: usually quick, short jerks, may affect the upper body.
The tonic-clonic: seizures are one of the most severe types of attacks that may cause the body to jerk, twitch, or shake and abruptly lose consciousness.
You must talk to a qualified doctor if you note any of these changes in your body. Appropriate treatment and early intervention can help to avoid any health complications.
Traditional Treatment for Epilepsy
As of now there is no known treatment of epilepsy. Nonetheless, some of the drugs that are commonly used for epilepsy management include:
- Carbamazepine
- valproate sodium
- phenobarbital sodium
- phenytoin sodium
- prelampone
The mentioned medications show effects by altering the electrical activity in the brain, thereby preventing or reducing seizures. However, they can also lead to unwanted side effects. Thus, natural modes of therapy such as medical marijuana are a considerable option.
Using Medical Marijuana for Epileptic Seizures
Despite the availability of some traditional treatment approaches for epilepsy, there is no known cure for this condition. However, it can be managed with various techniques including the use of medical marijuana.
Some studies indicate the positive role of medical marijuana for management of epilepsy. The drug can interact with the endocannabinoid system in the brain resultantly, modulating neuronal excitability and lowering seizure activity. However, the exact mechanism of marijuana’s influence on the body is yet to be studied.
Ingredients of Medical Marijuana
Medical cannabis contains vital constituents including CBD and THC which are well-known for their medicinal effects. Although THC poses intoxicating effects on the human body when taken in excessive amounts, its controlled use can be helpful for a patient. Moreover, it has also shown promise in reducing seizure activity, particularly in patients with severe forms of epilepsy.
Similarly, Cannabidiol is a non-intoxicating compound which can help with pain management. In addition to its potential for reducing pain, CBD can help in reducing seizure frequency and severity.
Use of Epidiolex
Patients who take cannabis-based medications for epilepsy may get relief from symptoms such as pain, sleep issues, anxiety, muscle spasticity, and inflammation etc. Moreover, Epidiolex is the first FDA-approved drug that contains CBD. It is a significant development in the treatment of some rare and severe forms of epilepsy.
Despite the potential benefits of MMJ for epilepsy, you must use this drug with caution. The Florida Health Department ensures safe and mindful use of marijuana for patients with qualifying illnesses. Thus, speaking with a licensed medical marijuana doctor is necessary.
Using MMJ Responsibly
Although research shows several beneficial traits of MMJ for health in the modern healthcare landscape, it is important to know that MMJ may not work for every illness. Moreover, you must be an eligible patient having a medical marijuana card to use MMJ.
Adherence to MMJ laws and regulations is crucial for using this drug in Florida. Moreover, self-medication of this drug is not recommended. Thus, you should consult with an MMJ doctor to safely use medical marijuana.
The Takeaway
Medical marijuana is a potential natural therapy for epilepsy patients in Florida. However, reaching out to a medical marijuana expert is crucial for proper dosage, and form of marijuana ingestion. Thus, you can contact My Florida Green experts for advice on how to embark on the journey to healing with medical marijuana. We can also educate and inform regarding the medical marijuana card Sarasota attainment process.
