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Migraine and medical cannabis

What is a migraine?

A migraine is more than just a headache. It is a neurological condition that causes intense, often throbbing pain, usually on one side of the head. Many people also experience nausea, sensitivity to light or sound, and vision disturbances known as auras. Attacks can last for hours or even days, making it difficult to work or carry out normal activities.

Who do migraines affect?

Migraines affect millions of people worldwide and can develop at any age. They are more common in women, often linked to hormonal changes, but men and children can also experience them. Stress, lack of sleep, certain foods, and changes in routine are common triggers. For those who suffer frequent migraines, the condition can have a major impact on quality of life, affecting work, education, and personal relationships.

Standard treatment options

Treatment for migraines varies depending on severity and frequency. Many patients use over-the-counter pain relief or prescription medicines such as triptans to stop an attack once it starts. Preventative medications may also be prescribed to reduce how often migraines occur. Lifestyle adjustments, such as maintaining regular sleep patterns, managing stress, and avoiding known triggers, are also important for long-term control.

Can medical cannabis help with migraines?

Medical cannabis is being studied as a potential option for migraine relief. Cannabinoids may help reduce the intensity of pain by interacting with the body’s nervous system. Some evidence suggests that medical cannabis could shorten the length of attacks, ease nausea, and improve sleep during migraine episodes. Patients who have not found success with conventional treatments sometimes report positive results when cannabis-based medicines are added to their care.

If you are living with migraines and want to know whether medical cannabis could support your treatment, it is important to seek professional guidance. A consultation with a qualified specialist can help determine whether cannabis-based medicine is suitable and how it can be safely integrated into your treatment plan.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Migraine

What distinguishes a tension-type headache from a migraine?

Instead of being felt on one side of the head, tension-type headaches are often felt as a band of pain across the forehead. Although this isn’t always the case, migraine discomfort is often more intense than a tension-type headache. A further set of signs that distinguish a migraine from a regular headache include feeling or being ill, being more sensitive to light and sound, and losing focus.

What is a migraine aura?

Before a migraine episode, warning signs called migraine auras are present. They might happen with or without the ensuing migraine headache discomfort. These may consist of:

  • Visual disturbances such as seeing zigzag patterns, black areas, or flashing lights
  • Pins-and-needles-like tingling or numbness that typically begins in one hand, travels up the arm, and then spreads to the face, lips, and tongue.
  • The inability to stand or balance
  • Impediment of speech
  • A loss of consciousness does, on occasion, occur.

How long do migraines last?

Each person’s migraine will be different in length. An untreated migraine might last anywhere from four to seventy-two hours. To lessen the symptoms and intensity of an attack, painkillers are advised at the very first indications of a migraine.

What causes migraines?

Every migraine sufferer has a unique set of potential triggers, and there are many of them. These range from physical activity to hormonal changes, too much light or noise, to a sharp temperature drop. Keeping a migraine diary of each recurrence is the most effective technique to determine the root cause of a person’s migraine episodes. Once a pattern is established, the person will be able to avoid migraine triggers.

How to stop having migraines?

  • Ibuprofen, aspirin, or paracetamol should be used as quickly as possible to relieve pain.
  • Avoid all potential stimulation and lie down in a calm, dark space.
  • Attempt a light meal if you think it may help.

Avoid fighting the need to vomit; some individuals say they feel better after doing so.

Can Medical Cannabis work for Migraines?

At present, there’s no remedy for migraine. Treatments for migraine sufferers might be reactive or preventive. Things that could be useful include: lying still in a dark, quiet environment; avoiding any potential stimulation; and considering eating something light. Some people claim that after getting sick, they feel better. It is best to start taking painkillers as soon as a migraine attack appears. Dissolvable pain relievers are a viable substitute since they dissolve more quickly in the body.

Book an appointment or complete the eligibility evaluation for pain management with medical cannabis. One of our physicians will examine your application and let you know if you may move forward with an appointment.

Does medicinal CBD help migraines?

Medicinal CBD may help reduce the frequency and severity of migraines for some people. Studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that CBD’s anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties can offer relief. However, results can vary, and more research is needed to fully understand its effectiveness.

How much CBD should you take for migraines?

Start with a low dose of CBD, such as 10-20 mg, for migraines. Gradually increase the dose if necessary, based on how your body responds. Individual needs can vary, so it’s a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most effective dosage for your specific condition.

How Much CBD Does It Take to Get Rid of a Migraine?

The amount of CBD needed to alleviate a migraine can vary significantly from person to person. Generally, many individuals start with a dose of 10–20 mg of CBD and adjust as needed based on their response. For those experiencing more severe migraines, a higher dose between 25 and 50 mg may be more effective. It’s important to start low and gradually increase the dose, paying attention to how your body reacts. Finding the right amount can take some trial and error, so keep track of your doses and effects for the best results.

Do CBD Gummies Help with Migraines?

Yes, CBD gummies can help with migraines, thanks to CBD’s anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. Many people find that gummies provide a convenient and discreet way to consume CBD. However, keep in mind that gummies typically take longer to work, usually around 30 minutes to 2 hours, because they need to be digested. For those looking for a sustained release of CBD, gummies are a great option. However, if you need more immediate relief from a migraine, faster-acting forms like oils or tinctures might be more effective. Regardless of the form, consistency is essential for managing migraines effectively with CBD.

Can a doctor prescribe cannabis for migraines?

In the UK, doctors may prescribe cannabis for migraines if other treatments have failed to provide relief. A specialist assessment determines eligibility for medical cannabis, which could help lessen the severity and frequency of migraine attacks.

What type of cannabis is best for migraines?

When it comes to choosing a cannabis strain for migraine relief in the UK we often recommend a balanced or CBD-rich type of cannabis for migraines, as it may help reduce headache intensity and ease associated symptoms like nausea. A cannabis prescription will specify the type and ratio best suited to each patient’s needs, based on a healthcare provider’s guidance.