Get a North Carolina Medical Marijuana Card for ALS When Program is Established
Medical marijuana can help symptoms of ALS, including pain and muscle spasms, and cannabis will likely be approved as a treatment for ALS when the North Carolina Legislature legalizes it.
What is ALS?
ALS, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also known as “Lou Gehrig’s Disease”, is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that causes the body’s muscles to weaken and atrophy.
ALS is known as a motor neuron disease, which are conditions that cause the gradual decline and death of motor neurons, which connect the brain with muscles.
The North Carolina Chapter of the ALS Association states that over 5,000 people are diagnosed with ALS each year, or around 15 new cases every day.
There is no known cure for ALS, but medications are available to help increase quality of life and reduce symptoms of ALS.
What are the Symptoms of ALS?
ALS is a Movement Disorder
The most common symptoms of ALS are difficulty with chewing or swallowing, cramping, muscle stiffness or twitching, and problems with voluntary movements.
ALS is a progressive condition, and its symptoms will worsen with time.
The Two Types of ALS
There are two main types of ALS, related to how the symptoms primarily affect a patient.
Patients who first notice ALS in their arms and legs are diagnosed with “Limb Onset” ALS.
Patients who first experience trouble with speech or swallowing are diagnosed with “Bulbar Onset” ALS.
Ultimately, ALS will spread to other areas of the body, and there is no way to stop the spread of the condition. Research is still ongoing to understand the development of ALS, and scientists and doctors believe that there are likely multiple factors that play a role in the diagnosis and progression of the disease, such as environmental or genetic markers.
Can Medical Marijuana Help with ALS?
Medications Available for Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease
There are a few medications available for treating the symptoms of ALS, and medical marijuana may be an important alternative treatment option for ALS patients.
Medical marijuana is known to help with relaxing muscles, reducing seizures and involuntary muscle movements, as well as improving sleep and reducing stress, which are all problems that ALS patients struggle with.
Medical marijuana is also known to have potent anti-inflammatory properties, and there is research that suggests cannabis could possibly play large role as an alternative medication for ALS patients.
Medical marijuana is also known to have anti-salivary effects, which could help lessen the risk of aspiration pneumonia, which is a complication that can occur as a result of ALS.
By decreasing pain, inflammation, and improving sleep, mood, and muscle stiffness, cannabis may be an important medication in treating the symptoms of ALS.
Get Your North Carolina Marijuana Card
ALS affects a small percentage of the population, but exists as a complex and difficult condition to live with. Medical marijuana can offer alternative relief for patients suffering from ALS, and it may be an approved alternative medicine in North Carolina.
It’s our hope that patients will soon be able to apply for a medical marijuana certification and begin receiving the compassionate treatment that they deserve.
Reserve an appointment with a medical marijuana doctor in North Carolina to get the latest updates to the progress of the program in the state, as well as $25 off your visit when the medical marijuana is legalized in North Carolina!
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