Cannabis Prescription for Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS)

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome can lead to chronic pain, joint instability, and other connective tissue problems. A cannabis prescription for Ehlers-Danlos syndrome may help ease muscle pain, improve sleep, and reduce inflammation, supporting better joint health and enhancing comfort for those living with this condition.

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome: What is it?

A set of genetic connective tissue diseases known as Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS) exists. Joint hypermobility, elastic skin, ease of bruising, and aberrant scarring after damage are the main features of the disorder. Those with EDS frequently endure persistent discomfort that affects their muscles and/or joints.

EDS affects roughly 2 in 10,000 people, making it an uncommon disorder.

Why do Ehlers-Danlos Disorders Develop?

The genes that encode the instructions for the connective tissue proteins have been related to one or more mutations that cause different Ehlers-Danlos syndromes. However, the precise gene is typically unknown. The majority of EDS types are a result of abnormalities in the collagen protein, which is essential for the formation of connective tissue. All EDS types include a problem with the creation of proteins. About 50% of the children of EDS patients, such as those with hypermobile EDS, inherit the illness.

Depending on the severity of the illness, Ehlers-Danlos syndromes are marked by a variety of symptoms. Joint hypermobility, elastic skin, ease of bruising, and irregular scar development after an accident are all symptoms of the illness itself.

Other typical signs include:

  • Back or joint ache
  • Syndromes of persistent pain, such as fibromyalgia
  • Fatigue
  • Repeated joint subluxation or dislocation
  • Muscle ache
  • Textures of silky, smooth skin
  • Stretch stains
  • Undeveloped muscle tone
  • Dilated veins
  • Groyne hernia or abdominal wall hernia
  • Rectal or uterine prolapse
  • Standing causes a reduction in blood pressure.
  • Gut issues, for example, include nausea or vomiting, heartburn, trouble passing stools, and irritable bowel syndrome.
  • Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), a rise in heart rate on standing

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Types

The symptoms of a patient are compared to the criteria to determine which of the thirteen identified forms of EDS they have. The majority of these ailments are uncommon, though.

The following thirteen conditions:

  • Extremely mobile EDS: significant widespread joint hypermobility is a defining characteristic.
  • Joint hypermobility: elastic skin, susceptibility to bruising, and aberrant scarring are the hallmarks of classical EDS (cEDS).
  • Vascular EDS (vEDS): is caused by an aberrant variation in the COL3A1 gene, which increases the chances of aneurysms, fistulas, and blood vessel rupture.
  • Arthrochalasia EDS (aEDS): is characterised by significant joint hypermobility and bilateral hip dislocation.
  • Brittle Cornea Syndrome (BCS): is characterised by blue eye whites and an eye with a narrow, projecting cornea.
  • Cardiac-valvular EDS (cvEDS): is characterised by significant heart valve dysfunction.
  • Traditional EDS (clEDS): resembling conventional EDS, except the muscle’s basement layer was disrupted rather than the collagen’s faulty structure.
  • Dermatosparaxis EDS (dEDS): is characterised by severe skin brittleness from infancy.
  • Musculocontractural EDS (mcEDS): This is related to muscular contractures that start at birth.
  • Myopathic EDS (mEDS): low muscle tone and/or muscular shrinkage are characteristics of this.
  • Spondylodysplastic EDS (spEDS): This is linked with short height and a bowing of the limbs.

Hypermobile EDS (hEDS), classic EDS, vascular EDS, and kyphoscoliotic EDS are the most prevalent kinds.

What are the Symptoms of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome?

Ehlers-Danlos syndrome may be a possible suspicion after a thorough history-taking and physical examination. The goal of the physical examination is to identify any further EDS-related features and the degree of joint hypermobility in the patient. Genetic tests that take a sample of the patient’s blood are also used to verify a diagnosis; however, these tests can only detect particular types of EDS and help rule out any further potential issues.

Treatment for Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome

Although there is currently no remedy for EDS, therapy and treatment aim to control symptoms and deal with any consequences that might pose a life-threatening risk, such as aneurysms, fistulae, and blood vessel rupture. Here are a few examples of the many symptom management methods:

  • Physiotherapy: This involves performing exercises to strengthen joints and muscles.
  • Occupational Therapist: To get guidance on the tools that might make daily work easier.
  • Cognitive-behavioural therapy: You could learn pain management techniques from this.
  • Pain Management: For sudden pain attacks, medicines such as anti-inflammatory drugs may be helpful. However, the majority of people will need specialised medical care from their GP and/or a specialist for chronic pain. When conventional first-line pain management medications are ineffective, medical marijuana may be an option.

Medical Cannabis and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome

There is little research on how medical cannabis affects EDS. However, since medical cannabis and marijuana treatments became legal in 2018, interest in it has massively increased. Medical cannabis may be investigated as a treatment choice for EDS when standard medications have failed to significantly lessen symptoms.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Arthritis Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome

What is the prevalence of EDS?

EDS is an uncommon condition that affects around one in every 5,000 individuals, while some variants of the disease are even rarer.

Is EDS inherited?

Yes, EDS can be inherited; however, some cases arise as a result of novel mutations (i.e., individuals may have no family history of the condition).

What is life like for those who have Ehlers-Danlos syndrome?

People with EDS have several challenges in their daily lives. The experience of one person with EDS may not be the same as that of another.

Some of the issues that EDS sufferers face include:

Day-to-day life: In general, people with EDS may live regular lives; nevertheless, they may experience mobility limitations. A person suffering from vascular EDS is at risk of catastrophic lethal consequences, such as ripping open a major blood vessel or organ.

Arthritis: Arthritis in EDS patients can be caused by gene mutations that alter collagen, resulting in continual joint deterioration. In this scenario, patients are recommended to avoid overextending or locking their joints, since this will result in persistent arthritis.

Breathing difficulties: A few people with kyphoscoliosis EDS may experience breathing difficulties. These can occur as a result of an aberrant spine bending both horizontally and forward.

Dental issues: gum and dental disease are common in those with the hypermobility variety of EDS.

Pain: Joint and skin issues are common in people with EDS, including easy skin rupturing, joint dislocation, and other painful symptoms.
Visual impairment: Individuals with kyphoscoliosis-type EDS are at risk for slight to serious vision impairment. These can happen if the retina is dislocated from its usual position.

Does EDS get worse with age?

The progression of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) can vary significantly among individuals. In some cases, symptoms may stabilise or even improve over time, while in others, they may worsen.

The severity and course of EDS can be influenced by factors such as the specific type of EDS, the presence of associated conditions or complications, individual genetics, lifestyle factors, and the effectiveness of management strategies.

For some individuals with EDS, joint instability, chronic pain, and other symptoms may become more pronounced with age due to cumulative wear and tear on the body’s connective tissues.

Regular monitoring by healthcare providers and appropriate management tailored to each individual’s needs can help minimise the impact of EDS-related symptoms and complications over time.

Is CBD good for EDS?

CBD (cannabidiol) may provide potential benefits for individuals with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), a group of connective tissue disorders that often result in chronic pain, joint instability, and other related symptoms. While there is no cure for EDS, many people seek ways to manage the associated symptoms, particularly pain and inflammation.

Potential Benefits of CBD for EDS:

  1. Pain Relief: CBD is widely known for its analgesic (pain-relieving) properties. For those with EDS, chronic pain can be a significant concern, and CBD may help by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating pain perception.
  2. Anti-inflammatory Effects: EDS can involve inflammation in joints and tissues, contributing to discomfort. CBD has demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties, which could help reduce this inflammation and provide relief for joint-related symptoms.
  3. Muscle Relaxation: Muscle spasms and tension are common in EDS patients, particularly due to joint instability. CBD has been reported to have muscle-relaxing effects, potentially alleviating muscle tightness and discomfort.
  4. Improved Sleep: Chronic pain and discomfort often lead to sleep disturbances in people with EDS. CBD may promote better sleep quality by reducing pain and anxiety, which could help improve overall well-being.

Considerations:

  • Individual Response: While many EDS patients report positive effects from using CBD, responses can vary from person to person. It’s essential to start with a low dose and gradually increase it to find what works best for you.
  • Consult a Doctor: Given the complexities of EDS, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before trying CBD. They can help ensure it doesn’t interfere with other treatments or medications and provide personalised advice.

What are the best cannabis strains for Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS)?

When it comes to cannabis strains for Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) in the UK, the focus is on managing symptoms such as chronic pain, muscle spasms, inflammation, and anxiety, which are common in patients with EDS. In the UK, only a specialist doctor can access medical cannabis, and they must prescribe it in a controlled, regulated manner. Patients with EDS often recommend the following strains for symptom management:

1. High-CBD strains for pain and inflammation

  • Benefits: CBD (cannabidiol) is known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making it effective for reducing pain and swelling, which are common concerns for people with EDS. High-CBD strains typically offer these benefits without causing significant psychoactive effects.
  • Example: Charlotte’s Web is a popular CBD-dominant strain known for providing relief from inflammation and chronic pain while promoting a calming effect that can also help with anxiety and stress.

2. Indica-Dominant Strains for Muscle Relaxation and Sleep

  • Benefits: People commonly recommend Indica strains due to their relaxing and sedative properties. They can be effective for managing chronic pain, reducing muscle spasms, and improving sleep, all of which are important for those with EDS.
  • Example: Northern Lights is an indica strain that can offer significant pain relief and muscle relaxation, making it a beneficial option for nighttime use or for calming severe pain episodes.

3. Hybrid Strains for Balanced Symptom Relief

  • Benefits: Hybrids blend sativa and indica genetics to provide a mix of pain relief, anti-inflammatory effects, and mood enhancement. People with EDS who require symptom relief without excessive sedation during the day can benefit from these hybrids.
  • Example: Cannatonic is a popular hybrid strain known for its balanced CBD and THC content, offering effective pain relief while minimising psychoactive effects. Harlequin is another hybrid that combines CBD-rich relief with moderate amounts of THC for a well-rounded effect.

4. Sativa-Dominant Strains for Daytime Energy and Pain Management

  • Benefits: Sativa strains can offer pain relief while boosting energy and mood, making them useful for daytime use when patients need to remain alert and active. However, we advise caution, as some sativas may increase anxiety in certain individuals.
  • Example: Amnesia Haze is a sativa strain that may provide relief from pain and improve focus and energy levels, helping EDS patients manage symptoms during the day.

Can cannabis help with EDS?

Yes, cannabis may help manage symptoms of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS). A cannabis prescription might alleviate chronic pain, reduce muscle spasms, and improve sleep for some EDS patients. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for personalised guidance.

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