For someone who is looking for possible treatments for Parkinson’s disease, we believe you are already familiar with the disease and its symptoms. A progressive, permanent condition, Parkinson’s disease has no cure. All the available traditional treatments as well as medical marijuana can only help by either reducing the severity of the symptoms or managing them for a certain period of time.
Living with Parkinson’s disease is difficult. We are not going to sugarcoat it for you or anyone. But we firmly believe an Oklahoma medical card will come in handy at times when nothing else will work.
Can Medical Marijuana be Used to Treat Parkinson’s Disease?
Yes, medical marijuana can be used for Parkinson’s disease. But, as already mentioned, it is not going to treat or cure the condition. Even when it comes to using it as an alternative treatment option for Parkinson’s, it is important to know that the research is very limited.
The reason is, the plant is classified as a Schedule I drug by the federal government. There are strict laws and regulations regarding the possession and use of the drug which sometimes hinder the research and investigations revolving around the effects and potential medical benefits of the plant.
Moreover, even the limited study that is available does not cover a large section of patients struggling with Parkinson’s disease. Small scale research, with patients having different health conditions and symptom intensity, consuming marijuana in different ways and doses, it can be difficult to state a strong opinion. There are a lot of variables that need to be taken into consideration to properly study the effects of marijuana.
However, multiple small-scale research and studies suggest that medical marijuana has medicinal properties and people have been using the plant to manage several symptoms that are common among patients of Parkinson’s disease as well.
So, while strongly supporting the need for better studies and research regarding the use and effects of medical marijuana for Parkinson’s, our medical marijuana doctors believe the plant has properties that can prove to be beneficial.
Traditional Treatments for Parkinson’s Disease
Again, even the traditional treatments for Parkinson’s only managed the symptoms of the condition. Parkinson’s disease is a progressive condition which means it is going to worsen with time. There is no way one can stop it but there are certain treatment options that can reduce the symptoms.
Medications
One cannot directly consume or deliver dopamine into the brain so the doctors prescribe medications like Levodopa that get converted into dopamine. Dopamine has a significant role to play in the development and progression of Parkinson’s disease. There are other prescribed medications as well that do not necessarily convert into dopamine but can offer similar effects.
Surgery
Another treatment option that doctors occasionally suggest is surgery. Surgery for Parkinson’s disease involves a deep brain stimulation system. It is usually suggested to people with advanced Parkinson’s condition. Medications stop working properly on them and they are asked to consider surgery as an alternative. It is important to note that the surgery involves a number of risks.
Lifestyle Changes
Every health condition asks for lifestyle changes, Parkinson’s is no exception. From having a balanced, nutritional diet to including exercise in the routine, there are several changes that need to be made for a better quality of life with Parkinson’s. Studies have found that physical activity has an important role to play in the treatment of Parkinson’s and not only can it reduce the severity of the symptoms, including exercise in your routine can also prevent Parkinson’s to a great extent.
How Can Medical Marijuana Help as a Complementary and Alternative Treatment for Parkinson’s Disease?
Medical marijuana has properties that can help in the management of several symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease.
Pain and Muscle Stiffness
Along with tremors, pain and muscle stiffness are very common symptoms of Parkinson’s. The intensity may vary as initially, the symptoms are usually so mild that they can even go unnoticed by the patients. But as the condition progresses, the intensity increases. The symptoms can hinder daily activities like sitting, standing, walking, writing, and lifting or holding something.
Marijuana is known for its anti-inflammatory properties that can alleviate chronic pain. Not just that, the plant is even known to reduce muscle stiffness and is thus used by patients who face trouble moving in the morning.
Sleep Disorders
Sleep disorders, from insomnia to REM Sleep Behavior Disorder, are another common issue that patients with Parkinson’s disease face. From trouble falling asleep to sleeping during the day, the condition may vary from person to person.
Marijuana can help in either case. The plant is broadly categorized into two different strain categories based on the effects it offers and while Indica strains are known to promote sleep, Sativa strains can offer energy and reduce dizziness.
Related: Cannabis and Sleep: How Weed Can Help You with Your Insomnia?
Bladder Problems
Again, people either may not have control over their bladder or experience trouble in urinating. In either case, medical marijuana can prove to be an effective treatment option. Studies have found that CBG, a nonpsychoactive cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant (not CBD), has the ability to reduce the contractions which have a role to play in bladder dysfunction or overactive bladder syndrome.
Stress and Anxiety
As a permanent condition, of course, Parkinson’s brings in stress and anxiety with it. The condition in itself is very stressful and the thought of how it is going to unfold in the future can contribute to the stress even further. Even if you accept the condition and make peace with it, everyday issues are going to affect your mental peace and there is very less or nothing you can do about it.
Medical marijuana can help you with your anxiety and stress. The plant is known to reduce stress and promote euphoria. One of the major cannabinoids, THC is known for its psychoactive properties that can manage stress and allow you to calm down.
Do You Need an Oklahoma Medical Card for Parkinson’s Disease?
Yes, you need an Oklahoma medical card if you intend to use medical marijuana for Parkinson’s disease. For that, you will first have to talk to your current doctor that you are considering medical marijuana as a complementary or alternative treatment for your condition and ask them for advice. If they aren’t qualified to recommend medical marijuana, you can reach out to our medical marijuana doctor online and get yourself evaluated. The process of getting an Oklahoma medical card is pretty easy and quick.
Also Read: Pros and Cons of an Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Card
Bottom Line
Medical Marijuana can be a reliable option in managing the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. However, the plant may not work for everyone. There are a number of variables that will play a role in determining if and how the plant shall work for you. It is recommended to consult a medical marijuana doctor before self-medicating yourself with the plant as it can interfere with the undergoing treatment.