Can cannabis help with Fibromyalgia?
Medical cannabis holds potential for easing the symptoms of fibromyalgia by targeting pain, inflammation, and related issues. Marijuana used for pain can offer relief from widespread aches, fatigue, and sleep disturbances commonly associated with fibromyalgia. While further research is needed to fully understand its efficacy, many fibromyalgia patients report finding relief and improved quality of life through medicinal cannabis.
Book an appointment or complete the medicinal marijuana eligibility evaluation, and one of our physicians will examine your application and let you know if you are eligible for a cannabis prescription for Fibromyalgia.
A cannabis prescription for fibromyalgia could be beneficial for those experiencing widespread pain and fatigue. Cannabis may help relieve muscle and joint pain, improve sleep quality, and reduce the fatigue and anxiety often associated with fibromyalgia. This natural approach offers a multi-faceted way to manage fibromyalgia symptoms and improve day-to-day comfort.
Chronic pain is a feature of fibromyalgia, a medical condition that impacts the entire body. Additionally, individuals with this condition may experience an array of other symptoms, such as:
- Weariness
- Restless sleep
- Memory and focus issues
- Irritable bowel syndrome
Definition of Fibromyalgia
The painful disorder fibromyalgia affects a lot of different sections of the body. Muscles and soft tissues are affected, and trigger points on the back, shoulders, or neck may cause the pain to be more intense. Additionally, the discomfort could be more pronounced after spending a lot of time in one position, such as at night or first thing in the morning.
Why Does Fibromyalgia Occur?
Given that fibromyalgia often has a familial pattern, it is widely believed that genetic factors contribute to the development of this illness. However, the specific genes involved in this process remain unclear. In addition to genetics, environmental factors may also influence an individual’s likelihood of developing fibromyalgia. This has been suggested by researchers in the field. There are a few known triggers, however, which consist of:
- A traumatic accident
- An infection like the Epstein-Barr virus or Lyme disease
- A major procedure
- Considerable mental stress comes from serving in the military during a war.
Sometimes there is no clear trigger that results in the development of fibromyalgia.
Symptoms of Fibromyalgia
Widespread pain that permeates huge areas of the body and feels like a persistent dull aching is the primary symptom of fibromyalgia. Before fibromyalgia-related pain is deemed long-term (chronic), at least three months must have passed, in contrast to short-term diseases or viruses that can cause pain across the entire body. In addition, people with fibromyalgia may be more sensitive to pain, so something that could only create pain that is 5 out of 10 terrible for someone else might bring pain that is 10 out of 10 severe for them.
Other symptoms, in addition to generalised pain across the body, include:
- Severe exhaustion (fatigue)
- Muscle rigidity
- Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia and “Fibro-fog,” cause issues with memory and attention.
- Headaches
- IBS, or irritable bowel syndrome
- Interstitial cystitis, which causes a sensitive, painful bladder and an increased frequency of urine in certain women, is another issue.
How is Fibromyalgia Confirmed?
Rather than depending entirely on specific tests to identify the condition, the majority of diagnoses are determined by a thorough review of the patient’s medical history and physical examination.
Because there are so many varied symptoms, reaching a proper diagnosis may take some time because many of them might be indicators of other conditions. First, your doctor may rule out disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) that can be identified by blood or urine tests, x-rays, or scans. Having one or more of the aforementioned conditions, however, does not automatically rule out fibromyalgia.
Important indicators of fibromyalgia include:
- A dull ache or pain in seven or more body locations, or severe pain in three to six separate body parts
- The discomfort and the accompanying symptoms have persisted for at least three months.
- It has been determined that no other illnesses with comparable symptoms are to blame.
Treatment for Fibromyalgia
There is no “one size fits all” treatment; instead, each person’s treatment will differ depending on their unique symptoms. A qualified healthcare practitioner may provide advice on the best course of action. The available treatments may lessen symptoms, but even with the best care, people can anticipate their intensity to fluctuate. Research on fibromyalgia is underway in an effort to find and provide additional treatment alternatives.
Since fibromyalgia affects several body systems, the patient may benefit from the advice and care of a variety of medical professionals, including rheumatologists, pain specialists, and psychologists, to provide an extensive treatment plan. Some lifestyle changes, including exercise, may also be suggested to improve a person’s quality of life.
Medicinal Cannabis for Fibromyalgia
The precise effects of medicinal cannabis on fibromyalgia pain remain uncertain. Nevertheless, with the legalisation of medicinal marijuana treatment in 2018, there has been a surge in interest surrounding its potential benefits. For individuals suffering from fibromyalgia, this could present an alternative option in cases where conventional treatments fail to provide substantial relief from symptoms.
Private Consultation for Cannabis Treatment at MARUCANNA
At MARUCANNA, we offer private consultations for those seeking cannabis treatment. Start with a free check to see if you qualify for a prescription, complete a quick questionnaire, and receive an instant decision. You’ll then meet with a doctor virtually.