{"componentChunkName":"component---common-build-tags-template-js","path":"/tag/asthma/","result":{"data":{"allArticle":{"edges":[{"node":{"id":"Article_2665-markdown","title":"4 Easy Ways to Manage Seasonal Allergies","slug":"4-easy-ways-to-manage-seasonal-allergies","content":"Seasonal allergies, also known as hay fever or allergic rhinitis, can be triggered by various substances like dust and pet hair. Pollen from ragweed, grass and other plants is also a common culprit. People tend to experience an uptick of allergy symptoms in the spring, summer and fall, when flowers and trees are in bloom. \n\nWhen your body comes in contact with an allergen, your immune system reacts by releasing histamine, a molecule that’s involved in the body’s inflammatory response. This response can trigger seasonal allergy symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes and a scratchy throat. In some cases, allergies can trigger asthma or asthma-like symptoms such as chest tightness, wheezing and coughing.  \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\nThe most common way to address hay fever symptoms is via antihistamines—drugs that prevent histamine from binding to certain receptors in the body, thus stopping your body’s inflammatory response. \n\nHowever, if antihistamines don’t quite do the job, or you don’t enjoy the side effects that can come with them—like dry mouth, dizziness and drowsiness, there are a number of alternatives you can try, including cannabis. \n\n### 1. Minimizing Your Exposure to Allergens Can Reduce Hay Fever Symptoms\n\nReducing your exposure to allergens might lessen your symptoms during hay fever season, according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. If your reactions are triggered by pollen, it’s a good idea to keep track of daily pollen reports.\n\nWhen the counts are high, try to limit your time outside, and wear eyewear to reduce eye exposure. If you go outside, take a shower afterwards to remove pollen that may have caught on your hair and clothes.  \n\nPets can track pollen into the house, so if you’re out with the dog, brushing them off before going inside can help keep your home clean. You can also install an air filtration system in your house, or purchase a portable one to reduce airborne allergens. Additionally, keep the windows of your home closed, especially during times when the pollen count is high.\n\nIn general, it’s also a good idea to vacuum your home regularly to remove not only pollen, but other possible allergens like dust and pet dander. And [if you need some motivation to clean your house, the right kind of cannabis can help](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5ab093a5f24d1300077ccb90/top-5-marijuana-strains-to-get-your-spring-cleaning-on). \n\n### 2. Cannabis’s Anti-Inflammatory Properties May Help During Allergy Season \n\nCannabis can help you clean your house of allergens, but it may also mediate your body’s immune response and thus ease allergy symptoms. While there’s no clinical evidence that points to marijuana helping with allergies, the endocannabinoid system (ECS)—the network of receptors in your body that cannabis works on—plays a role in how your body responds to allergens. \n\nRELATED: [DO YOU HAVE CLINICAL ENDOCANNABINOID DEFICIENCY?](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/59b2191f214a9d000dd6a3fe/do-you-have-clinical-endocannabinoid-deficiency)\n\nResearch suggests that the ECS may dampen your body’s inflammatory reaction to allergens via a number of different mechanisms. The pathway that has relevant applications to hay fever has to do with the ECS and mast cells, white blood cells that release certain compounds—including histamine—as part of your body’s immune response. \n\nStudies show that the components of the ECS have a role in mast cell function, and thus could be the key to controlling the body’s overreaction to certain substances during allergy season. For example, anandamide, a molecule that attaches to receptors in the ECS, can stop the release of inflammatory compounds that cause the symptoms of seasonal allergies. Anandamide is similar in structure and function to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). \n\nTHC and cannabidiol (CBD) are active compounds in cannabis that impart many of the plants benefits. They also have anti-inflammatory properties that could help manage the body’s allergic response. One study in guinea pigs found that [THC reduced coughing and restriction of airways in the lungs](http://jpet.aspetjournals.org/content/353/1/169). And another found that [CBD could also help with lung constriction](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23428645), a property that could make it useful in the treatment of asthma symptoms. \n\nIf you’re thinking of using cannabis to help you get through allergy season, avoid inhalable options like vape pens and joints, as they may exacerbate your symptoms. \n\n### 3. Acupuncture Could Moderate the Body’s Response to Allergens\n\nClinical trials suggest that acupuncture can treat seasonal allergies, but the mechanism on how it works is still unknown. In truth, while many studies suggest that acupuncture is an effective form of treatment for many conditions, [we’re just beginning to understand how it works](https://www.omicsonline.org/open-access/acupuncture-treatment-for-allergic-rhinitis-why-should-physicians-recommend-it.pdf). That said, research indicates that [the endocannabinoid system is involved](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a6267098425e40008273a32/how-acupuncture-interacts-with-the-endocannabinoid-system). \n\nA small study of 38 human subjects published in _The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine_ shed light on [how acupuncture might affect the body’s immune response](https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/abs/10.1089/acm.2000.6.519). The researchers measured blood levels of certain immune factors in subjects who received acupuncture and those who didn’t. They found that acupuncture both improved the subjects’ general well-being and altered these immune factors in a way that reduced the subjects’ asthma symptoms.  \n\nAll clinical studies involving acupuncture and seasonal allergies have been small, causing some concern among scientists about their validity. Additionally, the technique can be hard to placebo, making the design of such studies difficult.  \n\nWhile acupuncture seemed to improve study subjects’ quality of life and help with hay fever symptoms, researchers point out that larger trials still need to be conducted. They also add that the technique should be studied against other forms of allergy treatment like the use of antihistamines and intranasal sprays. \n\n### 4. Reishi Mushrooms May Help Ease Seasonal Allergy & Asthma Symptoms \n\nReishi mushrooms (_Ganoderma lucidum_) have been long-studied in China and Japan for their numerous medicinal properties—among them the ability to modulate different aspects of the immune system. Thus, it’s no surprise that many traditional Chinese remedies for allergies contain this fungus. \n\nA study in the _Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology_ compared the effects of prednisone, an anti-inflammatory steroid, and a blend of three Chinese herbs on asthma symptoms in 91 human subjects. The main ingredient of this blend was 20 grams of a [raw Reishi mushroom extract](https://www.nutraingredients-usa.com/Article/2005/10/18/Herbal-alternative-for-asthma-shows-promise?n=63278-chinese-medicine-asthma-ephedrine#). \n\nAt the end of the four-week study period, researchers found that the Chinese herbal blend was a safe and effective way to treat asthma. They measured the blood serum levels of several immune factors and found that the herbal blend changed them in a way that brought the immune system back into balance. \n\nThey also noted that the blend reduced lung inflammation and eased airways—results that could benefit asthma patients. Moreover, the herbal blend group had fewer adverse effects on their adrenal function than the prednisone group did. \n\nLike most conditions, there’s no silver bullet for seasonal allergy symptoms. But by incorporating multiple methods and taking measures like cleaning your house and installing air filters, you can manage your symptoms so they have less of an impact on your day-to-day life. \n\nPhoto credit: [Elijah Hail](https://unsplash.com/@elijahhail)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/1094b607d743a22c64f704d5048cbda8/14b42/5303b9387e0edba858b934b5db9bd54b.jpg","srcSet":"/static/1094b607d743a22c64f704d5048cbda8/f836f/5303b9387e0edba858b934b5db9bd54b.jpg 200w,\n/static/1094b607d743a22c64f704d5048cbda8/2244e/5303b9387e0edba858b934b5db9bd54b.jpg 400w,\n/static/1094b607d743a22c64f704d5048cbda8/14b42/5303b9387e0edba858b934b5db9bd54b.jpg 800w,\n/static/1094b607d743a22c64f704d5048cbda8/47498/5303b9387e0edba858b934b5db9bd54b.jpg 1200w,\n/static/1094b607d743a22c64f704d5048cbda8/0e329/5303b9387e0edba858b934b5db9bd54b.jpg 1600w,\n/static/1094b607d743a22c64f704d5048cbda8/de132/5303b9387e0edba858b934b5db9bd54b.jpg 3638w","srcWebp":"/static/1094b607d743a22c64f704d5048cbda8/58556/5303b9387e0edba858b934b5db9bd54b.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/1094b607d743a22c64f704d5048cbda8/61e93/5303b9387e0edba858b934b5db9bd54b.webp 200w,\n/static/1094b607d743a22c64f704d5048cbda8/1f5c5/5303b9387e0edba858b934b5db9bd54b.webp 400w,\n/static/1094b607d743a22c64f704d5048cbda8/58556/5303b9387e0edba858b934b5db9bd54b.webp 800w,\n/static/1094b607d743a22c64f704d5048cbda8/99238/5303b9387e0edba858b934b5db9bd54b.webp 1200w,\n/static/1094b607d743a22c64f704d5048cbda8/7c22d/5303b9387e0edba858b934b5db9bd54b.webp 1600w,\n/static/1094b607d743a22c64f704d5048cbda8/833d2/5303b9387e0edba858b934b5db9bd54b.webp 3638w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2144-markdown","title":"Marijuana Relieves Both Asthma & Anxiety","slug":"marijuana-relieves-both-asthma-and-anxiety","content":"### What Is Asthma?\r\n\r\nAsthma is a series of bronchospasms and increased mucous production in the lung airways. Asthma can be triggered by many different stimuli, ranging from organic materials to physical activity to respiratory infections. When Asthma is triggered, it leads to difficulty breathing, and patients often carry an inhaler to ease their symptoms. Asthma often causes anxiety as suffers struggle to breathe and the increased anxiety worsens the asthma symptoms. This creates a problematic cycle, which can be made worse by some inhalers because of the stimulants they contain. \r\n\r\n### How Can Cannabis Help?\r\n\r\nCannabidiol, or CBD, could be helpful in achieving what an inhaler can while also decreasing anxiety. A [2015 study](https://www.hindawi.com/journals/mi/2015/538670/) by Labratório de Fisiopathologia Experimental in Brazil found that CBD could be helpful in reducing mucous production associated with asthma. The study was conducted on rats who were injected with chicken ovalbumin, which produces a response in the rats similar to asthma. Half of the rats injected with the ovalbumin were then injected with CBD and one group of rats was injected with neither. \r\n\r\nBlood samples were obtained from the rats to measure cytokines, which are small proteins released by cells that are involved in cell communication and behavior. The rats who had been injected with CBD experienced a reduction in the amount of two kinds of cytokines. This decrease in cytokines suggests that CBD could reduce the production of mucous that is associated with asthma. The study also noted the immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory properties of CBD, which could also benefit patients with asthma. This study is a good first look at how CBD could help patients with asthma, but more clinical trials are needed. \r\n\r\n### Anecdotal Study Findings\r\n\r\nDr. Allan Frankel at Green Bridge Medical Center conducted an [anecdotal study](http://www.greenbridgemed.com/cbd-and-asthma/) using CBD rich tincture to monitor how it effected patients ability to breath. Dr. Frankel measured the forced expiatory volume at one second (when the patient was breathing as hard as they can), forced vital capacity (the amount of air a patient could blow out after taking a deep breath), and peak expiratory flow rate at any point during exhalation both before and after cannabis administration. \r\n\r\nDr. Frankel administered a 3 drop dose of tincture to asthma patients sublingually, which led to a doubling of forced expiratory capacity and peak expiratory flow rate. These increases were considered to be a great response to a inhaler for asthma, especially without an anxiety increase. CBD is known to reduce inflammation, which could explain why it could be especially helpful in relaxing the bronchiolar muscles during an asthmatic attack. \r\n\r\n### Could CBD Even Decrease Anxiety?\r\n\r\nCBD may have the ability to go beyond just helping with asthma symptoms and could even decrease anxiety in patients who are suffering from an asthmatic spasm. A [study published in Neuropsychopharmacology](http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21307846) from 2011 showed that CBD helped decrease anxiety in patients with social anxiety disorder. 24 patients with social anxiety disorder, who had never been treated, received 600mg of CBD or a placebo. There was also an added control group of 12 people without social anxiety disorder who took part in the test as well. \r\n\r\nPersonal evaluations and physiological measures, such as blood pressure, heart rate, and skin conductance, were monitored in each individual during a public speaking test. Patients who had taken CBD had greatly reduced anxiety and cognitive impairment compared to the group who had taken the placebo. This study could provide insight into how CBD could reduce the anxiety in patients with asthma. \r\n\r\nDo you have questions about this article? Ask a question in [HelloMD's new Answers](https://www.hellomd.com/) feature. \r\n\r\nIf you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/7027e77e431fbe38e36bf727e05008ed/14b42/f32d157abce0ac53c8303916913e9fbf.jpg","srcSet":"/static/7027e77e431fbe38e36bf727e05008ed/f836f/f32d157abce0ac53c8303916913e9fbf.jpg 200w,\n/static/7027e77e431fbe38e36bf727e05008ed/2244e/f32d157abce0ac53c8303916913e9fbf.jpg 400w,\n/static/7027e77e431fbe38e36bf727e05008ed/14b42/f32d157abce0ac53c8303916913e9fbf.jpg 800w,\n/static/7027e77e431fbe38e36bf727e05008ed/47498/f32d157abce0ac53c8303916913e9fbf.jpg 1200w,\n/static/7027e77e431fbe38e36bf727e05008ed/54ac5/f32d157abce0ac53c8303916913e9fbf.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/7027e77e431fbe38e36bf727e05008ed/58556/f32d157abce0ac53c8303916913e9fbf.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/7027e77e431fbe38e36bf727e05008ed/61e93/f32d157abce0ac53c8303916913e9fbf.webp 200w,\n/static/7027e77e431fbe38e36bf727e05008ed/1f5c5/f32d157abce0ac53c8303916913e9fbf.webp 400w,\n/static/7027e77e431fbe38e36bf727e05008ed/58556/f32d157abce0ac53c8303916913e9fbf.webp 800w,\n/static/7027e77e431fbe38e36bf727e05008ed/99238/f32d157abce0ac53c8303916913e9fbf.webp 1200w,\n/static/7027e77e431fbe38e36bf727e05008ed/5e0b8/f32d157abce0ac53c8303916913e9fbf.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_1999-markdown","title":"Marijuana & Your Lungs: Should You Be Worried?","slug":"marijuana-and-your-lungs-should-you-be-worried","content":"It's a well-known fact that smoke is bad for the lungs. From lung cancer\nto upper respiratory disease, smoking presents a variety of risks to the\nwell-being of our lungs. Because of this, many marijuana smokers are\nconcerned about the effect that inhaling cannabis will have on their\nrespiratory health, and indeed, there have been some studies linking\nmarijuana with slightly [increased risks of lung\ncancer](http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2516340/) and\nrespiratory problems. The issue of cannabis and lung health, however, is\nfar from simple. Here's what you need to know about how marijuana\naffects your lungs.\n\n**Cannabis Smoke and Lung Health**\n\nWhile it may seem logical to assume that cannabis smoke and tobacco\nsmoke are equally harmful to the lungs, this simply isn't true. While\ntobacco smokers often experience drastic lung damage as a result of\ntheir smoking habits,\n[data](http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25521349) reviewed by\nresearchers at Emory University showed that cannabis consumers who enjoy\na single joint each day for as long as 20 years don't actually\nexperience lung damage. These results change, however, when scientists\nevaluate heavy marijuana smokers (more than a joint a day for 20 years);\nthese smokers often suffer from [respiratory\nconditions](http://www.medscape.org/viewarticle/747982_4) such as\ndifficult exhalation and inflammation in the lungs.\n\nWhile the Emory University data seems to discount the risk of lung\ndamage from marijuana smoke, there have been several other studies (a\n[2006\nstudy](http://archinte.jamanetwork.com/article.aspx?articleid=410634)\nand a [2014\nstudy](http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ijc.29036/abstract),\nrespectively) that have found that marijuana smoke does leave tar\nremnants in the human lung, although the risk for lung cancer remains\nlow despite this.\n\n[READ MORE ABOUT VAPORIZERS](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5b0326f6bf4c4d000a0e7389/how-to-vape-marijuana-safely)\n\nIn light of these conflicting results, it's difficult to say\nconclusively that smoking marijuana doesn't harm the lungs and equally\ndifficult to claim that it causes irreparable damage. With that in mind,\nit's wise to turn our attention, instead, to how to consume marijuana in\na way that poses as little risk as possible to the lungs.\n\n**Popular Cannabis Inhalation Methods and Their Effect on Your Lungs**\n\nBecause the data on lung damage and cannabis smoke is still quite\ncontradictory, many dedicated cannabis users have begun to focus on\nfinding more lung-friendly ways to inhale cannabis. While there are many\nways to inhale cannabis smoke, some are healthier than others.\n\n### Vaporization\n\nThe popularity of [vaporization](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56b10a386d677f000b00007d/vaporizing-or-vaping-what-you-need-to-know) has risen in recent years due to the fact\nthat the method is widely considered to be the healthiest and cleanest\nway to use marijuana. While smoking creates ash that is hard on the\nlungs and edibles often come in the form of sugary treats, vaporizers\nproduce a clean, streamlined product that is easy to use on the go and\npresents a low risk of damage to the body. Vaporizers work by heating\nthe herb at temperatures lower than the those needed to induce\ncombustion. Instead of burning, the active ingredients in the cannabis\nplant are vaporized and inhaled. This mitigates the risks associated\nwith inhaling burnt cannabis byproducts.\n\n### Pipes or Rolled Joints\n\nThere are many cannabis users out there who love the tactile and oral\nexperience of a pipe or a joint. Unfortunately, if you're looking to\nmake consuming marijuana easier on your lungs, these probably aren't\nyour best go-to options. Hot, ashy smoke is tough on the lungs, and over\ntime, aficionados of these methods are likely to experience some of the\nadverse effects mentioned earlier. There is, however, a way to make\nsmoking a little safer. By purchasing a screen for your glass pipe, you\ncan filter some of the particulate out of the marijuana smoke and\nproduce a somewhat cleaner product.\n\n### Water Pipes\n\nFor people who still want the experience of smoking without all the\nharmful ash and debris, a water pipe may be the way to go. Water pipes\nwork by filtering smoke through a water reserve before it is inhaled by\nthe user. In addition to helping cool the hot smoke before it reaches\nyour lungs, this method also filters particulate and harsh ash out of\nthe smoke, producing a cleaner product and limiting the material that\ncan later build up as tar in the lungs. Keep in mind that while water\npipes can't filter all the harmful particulate from marijuana smoke,\nthey are quite a bit cleaner than inhaling directly from a pipe or\njoint.\n\n### Dabbing\n\n[Dabbing](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/55d4b9616531660006070000/is-dabbing-good-for-you) is the process by which cannabis extract is heated and inhaled\nas smoke. Compounds such as BHO (butane hash oil) are commonly used.\nWhile dabbing uses extract rather than the whole herb, the torch used to\nproduce the smoke super heats the extract, making it harsh on the lungs.\nThis can be mitigated by using crushed ice to cool the smoke before it\nreaches the lungs. However, dabbing also presents the risk of inhaling\ntraces of butane, which is a controversial topic. While it's true that\nbutane evaporates quickly, some people report headaches and irritation\nin the membranes of their mouths and noses during dabbing.\n\n**Conclusion**\n\nWhile the information surrounding smoking marijuana and lung health is\nspotty and often contradictory, there's no question that inhaling hot\nparticulate isn't beneficial for our respiratory tracts. Fortunately,\npeople who love inhaling marijuana can easily make the process safer by\nopting for a vaporizer or a water pipe over a joint or a dabbing setup.\nAdditionally, simple things such as [breathing\ndeeply](https://www.rush.edu/health-wellness/discover-health/keeping-your-lungs-healthy)\nand getting [daily\nexercise](https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/phys/benefits)\ncan help keep the lungs clean and strong.\n\n[Photo Credit](https://www.flickr.com/photos/cc_chapman/390319691/in/photolist-AuurR-iejKgn-scm7V7-aALmEQ-8QXgMX-fgHPjD-BVSPsP-6mwgt7-8A1GKV-5ZBv3P-qeZXdn-fbR2RA-dYjTaZ-92psSC-5SjTRM-76hZp1-5SE4Yv-7zYSpF-8wYad-9n9u6t-6mwgpm-8DFWgQ-4qywET-4B8mHh-4wKUX6-cWHUwY-8Q3ZyX-6JuqQ2-4Y5JZi-9U5rjb-cHq85A-77tPi9-AFZqfh-5NRZeS-tg1GpF-csVSAQ-eZ15qW-qFsZrx-3A8MjM-sAsikS-biBuha-46YY9f-4QhLHU-4V8ARe-6JPsPY-4ck95X-tfTe2Q-4c29tE-46USGV-46YXYQ)\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.4492753623188406,"src":"/static/73cc7b78b9a9c55bc5143f1ae656b781/ee604/c74441757da6f50f39a5179b041af16d.png","srcSet":"/static/73cc7b78b9a9c55bc5143f1ae656b781/69585/c74441757da6f50f39a5179b041af16d.png 200w,\n/static/73cc7b78b9a9c55bc5143f1ae656b781/497c6/c74441757da6f50f39a5179b041af16d.png 400w,\n/static/73cc7b78b9a9c55bc5143f1ae656b781/ee604/c74441757da6f50f39a5179b041af16d.png 800w,\n/static/73cc7b78b9a9c55bc5143f1ae656b781/44ef2/c74441757da6f50f39a5179b041af16d.png 890w","srcWebp":"/static/73cc7b78b9a9c55bc5143f1ae656b781/58556/c74441757da6f50f39a5179b041af16d.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/73cc7b78b9a9c55bc5143f1ae656b781/61e93/c74441757da6f50f39a5179b041af16d.webp 200w,\n/static/73cc7b78b9a9c55bc5143f1ae656b781/1f5c5/c74441757da6f50f39a5179b041af16d.webp 400w,\n/static/73cc7b78b9a9c55bc5143f1ae656b781/58556/c74441757da6f50f39a5179b041af16d.webp 800w,\n/static/73cc7b78b9a9c55bc5143f1ae656b781/ff2f7/c74441757da6f50f39a5179b041af16d.webp 890w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_1991-markdown","title":"Marijuana & Asthma: Can it Help?","slug":"marijuana-and-asthma-can-it-help","content":"For most people, the idea of inhaling marijuana to treat the symptoms of\nasthma is simply unheard of. It's common knowledge that smoking\ncigarettes can worsen asthma symptoms, and most people can't imagine how\ninhaling anything (besides the medicine contained in a doctor-prescribed\ninhaler, of course) could have health benefits.\n\nCannabis, however, can have [positive effects on the symptoms of\nasthma](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/55c260b465613800060f0000/asthma-patients-may-breathe-easier-with-cannabis) even when inhaled. These new findings are an exciting development for\nthose suffering from the lung disease. It's possible that with further\nstudy, we'll soon be seeing marijuana emerge as a mainstream treatment\nfor this chronic condition.\n\n**What is Asthma?**\n\nAsthma is a dangerous respiratory condition that results in difficulty\nbreathing. Asthma attacks - characterized by coughing, wheezing and\nshortness of breath - are often the result of exercise or allergic\nreactions to environmental pollutants, like pollen or dander. With\nsymptoms that range from mild to severe, asthma is a common disorder\nthat affects more than 25 million Americans. More than 3,000 people in\nthe United States die each year from asthma-related complications.\n\n**How Cannabis Treats Asthma Symptoms**\n\nIt's widely known that cannabis is a powerful\n[anti-inflammatory](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/55a3f31338323000062f0000/medical-marijuana-as-an-aid-against-inflammation).\nOne of the main ways cannabis treats asthma symptoms is by discouraging\ninflammation and opening the passages of the respiratory system. This,\nin turn, decreases coughing and shortness of breath. While many people\nmay imagine the effects of smoking marijuana and smoking cigarettes to\nbe similar, the effects of marijuana on the bronchial passages are\nactually the *opposite* of tobacco cigarettes - which constrict the\npassages of the airway, causing asthma symptoms to worsen.\n\nA 2012\n[study](http://jama.jamanetwork.com/article.aspx?articleid=1104848)\npublished in *The* *Journal of the American Medical Association* found\nthat people who suffered from asthma and smoked marijuana on a moderate\nbasis actually *increased* their lung function, without suffering the\nlung damage associated with tobacco cigarettes.\n\nThese results have surprised almost everyone, from consumers to doctors\nwho specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of asthma. It's clear the\neffectiveness of medical marijuana on asthma symptoms has the potential\nto revolutionize how the condition is treated in the future.\n\n**Cannabis Vaporizers vs. Corticosteroids**\n\nOne thing many medical professionals are considering is whether\n[cannabis can replace or decrease the use of\ncorticosteroids](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/55c260b465613800060f0000/asthma-patients-may-breathe-easier-with-cannabis)\nfor the treatment of asthma. Inhalers containing corticosteroids are\ncurrently the most-diagnosed treatment for asthma, but unfortunately,\nthe medications contained within prescribed inhalers have been\nassociated with [dangerous side\neffects](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/steroids/),\nincluding depression, anxiety and high blood pressure. Because of this,\nmany asthma sufferers have been looking for steroid-free treatment\nsolutions - and marijuana is currently one of the leading options.\n\nOne of the best ways to deliver cannabis to a person suffering from\nasthma is through vaporization. Modern inhalers work by vaporizing the\nmedicine within, so it stands to reason marijuana vaporizers could\nbecome just as popular in the asthmatic community. In addition to being\nsafer and cleaner than smoking, vaporizers are also highly portable,\nefficient and effective. Because of these characteristics, cannabis\nvaporizers could easily replace vaporized corticosteroids with a safer\nand more effective medicine.\n\n**The Bottom Line**\n\nWhile only time will tell whether marijuana gains popularity as a\ntreatment for asthma, it's clear the compounds contained within\nmarijuana (including THC and CBD) possess powerful anti-inflammatory\nproperties that can help decrease and alleviate the symptoms of asthma.\nAdditionally, the easy availability and proven effectiveness of delivery\nmethods like marijuana vaporization can help asthma sufferers have\naccess to a safe, efficient treatment to manage their symptoms.\n\n[Photo Credit](https://www.flickr.com/photos/zippidyserendipity/16193758604/in/photolist-qEZffy-9gwra2-67xhV8-nNTqkA-kVXXBe-gjjEXm-9b1cch-7dVvXJ-q2TRtx-pAAFAo-4fMWBk-4pXsd1-am2eL-quA8v1-fv781p-a4zrck-3ekWt9-jir4dy-4CzUjr-7hNRem-6nhmcq-r495gT-8KSU42-ajg5GJ-bziDJQ-6AGFio-kVYSYf-mFKz51-98n3CK-kVXnNV-Bu36d-5PNEYR-pvUqhQ-s2hZ1-N5MoN-c3bLtd-rp7PDC-5DxCLH-nSHZak-4sMFm9-5SY4Xo-6YAAzs-6ACuLg-9rHh21-p5UBJC-6AGETq-aaQcLJ-9kh3bS-8n6c7h-oxTr4v)","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.4184397163120568,"src":"/static/bd08024adfd8d79cdf71886773eeb393/ee604/64ea9feb776d0692902f9a533c78bd8c.png","srcSet":"/static/bd08024adfd8d79cdf71886773eeb393/69585/64ea9feb776d0692902f9a533c78bd8c.png 200w,\n/static/bd08024adfd8d79cdf71886773eeb393/497c6/64ea9feb776d0692902f9a533c78bd8c.png 400w,\n/static/bd08024adfd8d79cdf71886773eeb393/ee604/64ea9feb776d0692902f9a533c78bd8c.png 800w,\n/static/bd08024adfd8d79cdf71886773eeb393/6a660/64ea9feb776d0692902f9a533c78bd8c.png 851w","srcWebp":"/static/bd08024adfd8d79cdf71886773eeb393/58556/64ea9feb776d0692902f9a533c78bd8c.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/bd08024adfd8d79cdf71886773eeb393/61e93/64ea9feb776d0692902f9a533c78bd8c.webp 200w,\n/static/bd08024adfd8d79cdf71886773eeb393/1f5c5/64ea9feb776d0692902f9a533c78bd8c.webp 400w,\n/static/bd08024adfd8d79cdf71886773eeb393/58556/64ea9feb776d0692902f9a533c78bd8c.webp 800w,\n/static/bd08024adfd8d79cdf71886773eeb393/4141f/64ea9feb776d0692902f9a533c78bd8c.webp 851w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_1927-markdown","title":"Asthma Patients May Breathe Easier with Cannabis","slug":"asthma-patients-may-breathe-easier-with-cannabis","content":"People with asthma may now be able to breathe a little easier. Research\r\nshows that medical marijuana can potentially provide relief from asthma\r\nattacks.\r\n\r\nWhat Is Asthma?\r\n---------------\r\n\r\nAsthma is a chronic lung disorder in which the airways are inflamed and\r\ncompressed. During an acute episode--called an asthma attack--the\r\nairways become narrowed or blocked, making it difficult to breathe.\r\nSymptoms of asthma include:\r\n\r\n-   Coughing\r\n-   Wheezing\r\n-   Tight feeling in the chest\r\n-   Shortness of breathe\r\n\r\nAccording to the [World Health\r\nOrganization](http://www.who.int/features/qa/46/en/), 235 million people\r\nacross the globe have asthma, and asthma causes about 250,000 deaths\r\neach year. The [National Heart, Lung and Blood\r\nInstitute](http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/asthma)\r\nestimates that 25 million Americans have asthma.\r\n\r\nAlthough the cause of asthma is unknown, it can be triggered by a number\r\nof factors, including:\r\n\r\n-   Allergens (pollen, dust mites and dander)\r\n-   Irritants (tobacco smoke)\r\n-   Medications (for example, aspirin)\r\n-   Chemicals\r\n-   Viral respiratory infections\r\n-   Exercise\r\n\r\nTreatment involves avoiding triggers, modifying exercise and taking\r\nmedication, such as inhaled bronchodilators, to open airways. In severe\r\ncases, hospitalization may be required.\r\n\r\nCannabis and Asthma\r\n-------------------\r\n\r\nThe cannabinoid system in the human body helps regulate many functions,\r\nincluding respiration.\r\n[Scientists](http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11081515) have shown\r\nthat anandamide, which is a naturally occurring cannabinoid in the body,\r\nhelps maintain airway function. It can relieve coughing and\r\nbronchospasms (tightening of the airways) caused by inhaled irritants.\r\n\r\nTetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is one of the cannabinoids found in\r\nmarijuana. It has strong\r\n[anti-inflammatory](http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2828614/?tool=pubmed)\r\nproperties and is similar to anandamide. Recent\r\n[research](http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.12597/full)\r\nhas found that THC causes bronchodilation, a widening and opening of the\r\nbronchioles or tubes, in lung tissue in the laboratory.\r\n\r\nSmoke and Asthma\r\n----------------\r\n\r\nOne of the triggers for asthma is tobacco smoke, so it seems probable\r\nthat marijuana smoke could cause problems in patients with asthma.\r\nMarijuana contains more than 400 compounds, including THC. Some of these\r\n[compounds](http://pubs.acs.org/doi/full/10.1021/tx700275p) are\r\nnaturally occurring toxins and some are toxins, such as ammonia, that\r\nare introduced through fertilization of the growing marijuana plant.\r\nThus, a safer delivery method is needed. Two options are vaporization\r\nand aerosolization.\r\n\r\nVaporization involves heating cannabis to a temperature that promotes\r\nevaporation and prevents combustion. This method avoids toxin release\r\nwhile delivering the same amount of\r\n[THC](http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1038/sj.clpt.6100200/abstract).\r\n[Research](http://www.ijdp.org/article/S0955-39591000069-1/abstract)\r\ninto vaporization shows that it can improve lung function in long-term\r\nrecreational marijuana smokers.\r\n\r\nAn aerosolized medication is one where the active ingredient is\r\nconverted into tiny particles suspended in liquid. Asthma inhalers are\r\naerosolized versions of bronchodilator medication. A recent study found\r\nthat [aerosolized THC](http://thorax.bmj.com/content/31/6/720.abstract)\r\nhas improved breathing in patients with asthma and did so more rapidly\r\nthan albuterol, a traditional bronchodilator medication.\r\n\r\nWhile evidence is preliminary and clinical studies are needed to further\r\ndefine the effect of cannabis on asthma, the story is compelling.\r\nMedical marijuana may have an important role in helping people cope with\r\nasthma.\r\n\r\n[Photo Credit.](https://www.flickr.com/photos/36384421@N08/3695007406)","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/24042ee182d6041c5f87a182875d6834/14b42/c7debd69a253399caaf3b023cfbf2646.jpg","srcSet":"/static/24042ee182d6041c5f87a182875d6834/f836f/c7debd69a253399caaf3b023cfbf2646.jpg 200w,\n/static/24042ee182d6041c5f87a182875d6834/2244e/c7debd69a253399caaf3b023cfbf2646.jpg 400w,\n/static/24042ee182d6041c5f87a182875d6834/14b42/c7debd69a253399caaf3b023cfbf2646.jpg 800w,\n/static/24042ee182d6041c5f87a182875d6834/16310/c7debd69a253399caaf3b023cfbf2646.jpg 1024w","srcWebp":"/static/24042ee182d6041c5f87a182875d6834/58556/c7debd69a253399caaf3b023cfbf2646.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/24042ee182d6041c5f87a182875d6834/61e93/c7debd69a253399caaf3b023cfbf2646.webp 200w,\n/static/24042ee182d6041c5f87a182875d6834/1f5c5/c7debd69a253399caaf3b023cfbf2646.webp 400w,\n/static/24042ee182d6041c5f87a182875d6834/58556/c7debd69a253399caaf3b023cfbf2646.webp 800w,\n/static/24042ee182d6041c5f87a182875d6834/cc834/c7debd69a253399caaf3b023cfbf2646.webp 1024w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}}]}},"pageContext":{"limit":12,"skip":0,"numPages":1,"currentPage":1,"id":4967,"name":"Asthma","slug":"asthma","country":"US"}},"staticQueryHashes":["3949754563","4179947113","4202924991"]}