Most people who have MS know that medical marijuana is a natural and effective way for people throughout the state of Virginia to treat some of the most debilitating symptoms of multiple sclerosis.
Multiple Sclerosis makes it onto almost every state’s list of qualifying conditions for medical marijuana, and that’s because it is so effective in helping patients with MS live their lives as normally as possible.
What Is Multiple Sclerosis?
MS is an autoimmune disease that affects the brain, spinal cord and optic nerve in the eyes. The condition can cause issues with vision, balance, muscle control amongst other important body functions. The disease causes the immune system to attack myelin, a fatty material that wraps around nerve fibers to protect them. Without myelin, the nerves become damaged and scar tissue forms. This hinders the brain’s ability to send signals through the body correctly.
Not everyone who has MS experiences symptoms in the same way. Some people don’t even need treatment because their symptoms are so mild, while others have difficulty walking and performing basic daily tasks. Common symptoms associated with MS include:
Difficulty walking
Fatigue
Muscle weakness or spasms
Double vision
Tingling and numbness
Poor bowel and bladder control
Sexual dysfunction
Depression
Chronic pain
The exact cause of MS is not fully understood, but hereditary genes, smoking and certain viral infections have all been shown to play a role in onset. Also women are more likely to develop MS than men. A healthy diet, regular exercise and stress reduction can help to reduce symptoms.
Is Multiple Sclerosis a Qualifying Condition in Virginia?
Multiple sclerosis (MS), one of the most common neurological diseases, can be one of the tougher diagnoses to cope with. At any given time, there are roughly 400,000 Americans living with MS.
One of the most important things about MS is that the earlier you start treatment, the less likely you are to suffer from debilitating symptoms. There is no known cure for MS, but there are a few prescription medications on the market indicated to treat MS and its symptoms.
The good news for MS patients who live in Virginia is that they now have access to a promising treatment option - medical marijuana!
How Can Medical Marijuana Help Multiple Sclerosis?
Medical marijuana has been shown to help patients find relief from certain MS symptoms. The American Academy of Neurology concluded that various THC products are “probably effective” at treating various issues related to MS, cited in a publication put out on the National MS Society website. The 2014 review included data and results concerning the efficacy of medical marijuana on treating MS and other neurologic diseases, from all research published in peer-reviewed journals at the time. Most available research up to and after the 2014 review shows participants report an improvement in many of their symptoms!
Another study published in the Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery and Psychiatry found that the patients involved in the study who used medical marijuana saw big improvements in muscle stiffness. Improvements were also seen in body pain, sleep quality and spasms. Inflammation of neural tissue is a major factor for MS, and medical marijuana has been shown to have a positive effect on this. Several other investigations have exposed a link between medical marijuana and lower rates of depression among MS sufferers.
How Can I Raise Awareness about MS?
The National MS Society has plenty of resources, and local chapters like the Virginia Chapter of the MS Society offer ways to connect through group discussions and events. Many offer services that help people who have MS find ways to manage symptoms and social stigmas surrounding neurological diseases.
Walk for MS!
Walk for MS is a national event that takes place annually in cities all over the country. The goal is to provide an opportunity for people to connect, raising awareness as well as funds. Some day, we will find a way to either eradicate or cure MS, and these events further that goal. Here are some upcoming MS Walks in Virginia that you can attend!
Manassas, VA | Apr 24, 2021
Reston, VA | Apr 24, 2021
Clear Brook, VA | May 1, 2021
How Do I Get a Virginia Marijuana Card For MS?
In Virginia, you qualify to use medical marijuana to treat your multiple sclerosis symptoms with a recommendation from a doctor. Join the thousands of patients who have found relief through the use of therapeutic cannabis!
Virginia Marijuana Card offers medical marijuana evaluations and guidance from trained doctors and staff who are ready to answer your questions right now. Give us a call at (888) 633-5808, or schedule a medical marijuana evaluation appointment online today!