Can You Medical Marijuana Card to Treat Crohn's Disease?

August 8, 2022

Can you treat Crohn's disease symptoms with medical cannabis in Louisiana?

Medical marijuana in Louisiana is gaining popularity as a treatment for various medical conditions, including Crohn's disease. Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disorder that can cause a range of symptoms, including abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weight loss. There's no cure for Crohn's disease, but some treatments are available that can help to manage the symptoms.

Medical marijuana has been shown to be effective in reducing inflammation and pain in a variety of medical conditions. Some studies have also suggested that it may be effective in treating Crohn's disease specifically. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings.

Keep reading to learn more about Crohn's Disease, what to expect, and how this qualifying condition for Louisiana medical marijuana cards will give you access to the dispensaries.

Crohn's Disease Symptoms

Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disorder that can cause a range of symptoms, including abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weight loss. There is no cure for Crohn's disease, but there are treatments available that can help to manage the symptoms.

Medical marijuana has been shown to be effective in reducing inflammation and pain in a variety of medical conditions. Some studies have also suggested that it may be effective in treating Crohn's disease specifically. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings.

The symptoms of Crohn's disease can vary from person to person and range in severity. Some people with Crohn's disease may only experience mild symptoms, while others may have more severe symptoms that require hospitalization.

The most common symptoms of Crohn's disease include:

  • Abdominal pain
  • Diarrhea
  • Weight loss
  • Fatigue
  • Fever
  • Anemia
  • Eye inflammation
  • Joint pain
  • Mouth sores
  • Skin rashes or lesions

Crohn's disease can also cause other complications, such as fistulas (abnormal connections between organs or tissues), intestinal blockages, and malnutrition.

If you're considering using medical marijuana to treat your Crohn's disease symptoms, it's important to speak with one of our doctors first. We can help you to understand the risks and benefits of using medical marijuana and can advise you on the best way to use it.

Crohn's Disease Diagnoses

There is no one test that can diagnose Crohn's disease. Instead, doctors will often use a combination of tests to make a diagnosis for this IBD. These may include blood tests, stool tests, imaging tests, colonoscopies, and endoscopies.

Blood tests can be used to look for inflammation markers or anemia. This type of testing is often done when someone first comes to the doctor with Crohn's disease symptoms.

Stool tests may be used to look for blood or evidence of infection. These tests can also be used to rule out other conditions that may cause similar symptoms, such as celiac disease.

Imaging tests, such as CT scans or MRIs, can be used to look for inflammation in the intestines. These tests are often ordered if someone has Crohn's disease symptoms that are not responding well to treatment.

If you're experiencing symptoms of Crohn's disease, it's crucial to see your doctor so they can run the appropriate tests. They can then provide you with a treatment plan that can help to manage your symptoms.

Crohn's Disease Treatments

Treating Crohn's Disease often involves a combination of medication and lifestyle changes. Medications used to treat Crohn's disease include anti-inflammatories, probiotics, immunosuppressants, biologics, and medical marijuana. But zaza, or high-quality cannabis flower, anecdotally has the potential to help, too.

Anti-inflammatories help to reduce inflammation in the intestines. These medications can be taken orally or rectally.

Probiotics are live microorganisms that can help to restore the balance of good bacteria in the gut. These are available in supplement form or in certain foods, such as yogurt.

Immunosuppressants help to suppress the immune system and can be used to treat inflammatory conditions like Crohn's disease. These medications can have serious side effects and should only be used under the guidance of a doctor.

Biologics are a type of immunotherapy that targets specific proteins involved in inflammation. These drugs are given as injections or infusions and can help to reduce symptoms for some people with Crohn's disease.

Making lifestyle changes such as eating a healthy diet, quitting smoking, and reducing stress can also help to manage the symptoms of Crohn's disease.

If you're living with Crohn's disease, it's important to work with your doctor to create a treatment plan that is right for you. There are many options available, and working together, you can find a plan that helps you to live a symptom-free life.

Can Medical Marijuana Help with Crohn's Disease?

Medical marijuana has been shown to be effective in reducing inflammation and pain in a variety of medical conditions. Some studies have also suggested that it may be effective in treating Crohn's disease specifically. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings.

THC acts as a CB1 receptor agonist, meaning it binds to and activates CB1 receptors. These receptors are found throughout the body but are mostly concentrated in the brain and central nervous system. THC binding to CB1 receptors has been shown to reduce pain and inflammation. But more research is needed to say for sure.

Medical marijuana also offers antidepressant and sleep aid properties. This is important because people with Crohn's disease are at an increased risk for depression and anxiety. They also often have difficulty sleeping due to pain and other symptoms.

If you're considering medical marijuana for Crohn's disease, be sure to talk to your doctor first. They can help you to understand the risks and benefits of using this treatment option and can make recommendations based on your individual health needs.

Final Thoughts on Louisiana Medical Marijuana for Crohn's

Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory condition that can be painful and debilitating. There is no cure for Crohn's disease, but there are treatments available that can help to manage the symptoms.

Medical marijuana has been shown to be effective in reducing inflammation and pain in other conditions, so it is reasonable to believe that it could also help to manage the symptoms of Crohn's disease.

If you are considering using medical marijuana to treat your Crohn's disease, it is important to obtain a recommendation first. This will give you access to the dispensaries in Louisiana.

Looking for assistance acquiring your medical marijuana card in LA? Consult with one of our licensed marijuana physicians and learn how medical marijuana may help with your treatment today.