Cannabis and Dementia
Understanding How Medical Marijuana Can Help With Dementia
There are different stages of dementia – early, middle, and late. Every patient is affected differently, and the progression through the stages and symptoms will differ for everyone. The brain changes begin years before there are any signs of dementia.
It’s likely that you’ll find mixed information across the internet when it comes to marijuana and dementia. There has been ongoing research that suggests high concentrations of CBD are useful for managing symptoms of dementia. Some of these symptoms include agitation and anxiety.
Let’s get some questions answered, such as can marijuana cause dementia? What strain is best for memory loss? And, finally, we’ll find out whether or not cannabis treatment for dementia is a viable option.
What is Dementia?
To determine if marijuana treatments are good for dementia, it will help to understand exactly what dementia is.
The word “dementia” is often associated with memory loss, problem-solving abilities, and other problems associated with thinking. These symptoms can become so severe that they interfere with daily life and the ability to be independent.
Dementia is basically a term for a wide range of medical conditions, such as Alzheimer’s. Its abnormal brain changes cause a decline in cognitive abilities, personality changes, and reasoning.
While forgetting things is a normal part of aging, dementia is a serious mental decline that leads to the person’s inability to function independently.
Dementia is caused by damage to brain cells in a particular part of the brain, preventing the brain cells from communicating with each other.
So what causes damage to brain cells? Sometimes it can result from an underlying illness or a side effect of medications.
One of the leading causes of dementia is your genes; some additional causes include,
- Tumors
- Subdural hematomas
- Normal-pressure hydrocephalus a buildup of fluid in the brain
- Vitamin B12 deficiency
- Hypothyroidism – low levels of thyroid hormones
- Hypoglycemia – low blood sugar
What's the Relationship Between Marijuana and Dementia?
There have been positive results with testing when it comes to cannabis and dementia.
The endocannabinoid system is a nerve signaling system that plays a major role in maintaining physiological, emotional, and cognitive stability.
Research has proved the low doses of THC restore memory and improve learning levels.
Cannabinoid receptors are naturally found in most tissues and organs in the body, with a majority of them in the brain.
So when you use cannabis, its cannabinoids act on these receptors by altering the release of neurochemicals in the brain. This is where the changes in the brain cells change and begin communication again.
CBD has several benefits when it comes to treating various types of dementia, from reducing inflammation and oxygen buildup, stimulating the brain and neuroprotectants will remove dead brain cells and protein tangles.
Protein tangles are believed to be one of the causes of dementia, and as well as reducing the decline of memory loss and other brain functions.
So as you can see, there is some promising information regarding marijuana use for dementia.
And when it comes to medical cannabis, dementia patients will benefit in many ways, but it’s important to do so under medical supervision.
There is a variety of medical cannabis dementia, such as edibles for dementia, edibles for memory loss, options for dried flower, CBD tinctures, and more.
But does marijuana cause dementia? This is not proven to be true or false.
Can You Get a Medical Marijuana Card for Dementia?
Is dementia a qualifying medical condition for marijuana in the US?
Technically, no; however, that doesn’t mean that you can’t get a medical marijuana card for the symptoms that your dementia causes.
As we mentioned, dementia and Alzheimer’s are often interlinked, and agitation from Alzheimer’s is a valid qualifying condition for MMJ.
So, this will depend on the state you’re in. But, most likely, you will be able to get a medical marijuana card for your dementia symptoms.
Here at Elevate Holistics, we have a team of MMJ doctors who want to do whatever they can to help you get the care you deserve.
So, if you’re ready to get your medical marijuana card for dementia, we’re here to help. Click the button below to schedule your same-day appointment and get relief today.
Frequently
Asked Questions
What are the symptoms of dementia?
The symptoms of dementia can vary greatly. Some of the signs include:
- Problems with short-term memory.
- Trouble keeping track of things such as a purse or wallet.
- Difficulty paying bills.
- Having a hard time planning and preparing meals.
- Remembering appointments.
As the condition progresses, these signs will gradually get worse. Early-onset of dementia can begin as early as the 30s, 40s, and 50s. If you’ve been experiencing memory difficulties or notice changes in your thinking skills, consider getting checked. The sooner you get diagnosed, the more treatable it will be.
What's the best strain for memory loss and dementia?
CBD has shown promising results when it comes to stopping and potentially reversing the loss of brain function and memory loss. And may help stimulate the brain and aid in maintaining the connections within the brain to delay the effects of dementia.
The best dementia strain or memory loss weed strain would be Indica, as it has higher levels of CBD than Sativa. You can use this in various methods, from smoking the plant, vaping, or as a tincture. There are many different names of strains, but all of them will stem from Indica or Sativa.
A cannabis doctor will discuss what your best options are when it comes to strains and dosage. The dispensary employee will help guide you toward the product type. Take the time to discuss the products and understand how they will make you feel and how to use them properly.
What are the effects of cannabinoids on dementia?
The marijuana dementia strain can have different effects on how the patient feels. Higher THC causes a high feeling and causes drowsiness, whereas strains with higher levels of CBD will give you energy.
Cannabinoids that contain THC and CBD have neuroprotective properties, and this helps to reduce neuroinflammation and enhance neurogenesis. Both have been shown to be effective at calming down dementia patients that suffer from agitation, which is often associated with dementia.
Is it legal to use medical marijuana in your state? If you’re hoping to use medical marijuana to manage symptoms of dementia, you’ll need to get a medical card. While every state is different, they have one thing in common: getting your medical condition qualified by a cannabis doctor. They will help you decide if cannabis will be beneficial and help you navigate through the process and strains and determine the correct dosage.
At Elevate Holistics, we offer telehealth services to provide you with in-home appointments. We’ll answer your question, address any concerns and determine if medical marijuana will be the best treatment.
