{"componentChunkName":"component---common-build-tags-template-js","path":"/tag/pain-management/3","result":{"data":{"allArticle":{"edges":[{"node":{"id":"Article_2504-markdown","title":"The Rise of Opioids—and Cannabis’s Role in Their Downfall","slug":"the-rise-of-opioidsand-cannabiss-role-in-their-downfall","content":"The American [opioid epidemic accounts for more than 90 overdose deaths per day](https://www.drugabuse.gov/drugs-abuse/opioids/opioid-overdose-crisis). In some states, the number of prescription opioid medications dispensed far exceeds the total population. People desperate for opioids often turn to heroin when they can’t get more prescribed to them. Meanwhile, heroin laced with the vastly more powerful fentanyl is responsible for many fatalities associated with opioids.\n\nResponding to pressure from a number of organizations and legislative bodies, President Trump declared the [U.S. opioid crisis a national public health emergency](http://www.cnn.com/2017/10/26/politics/donald-trump-opioid-epidemic/index.html), prompting proposals for solutions ranging from increased scrutiny of prescribing physicians to making the opioid antidote naloxone available to everyone.  \n\nEven as public attention focuses on the soaring rates of opioid addiction, a potential solution is emerging: cannabis. Many people are turning to marijuana in a variety of forms for pain relief without the side effects and risks associated with powerful opioid medications.\n\nBut the movement to make cannabis more widely available is facing stiff opposition from both the government and a pharmaceutical industry committed to promoting—and profiting from—the sale of opioids.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### How Did Using Opioids Become an American Way of Life?\n\nThe [American love affair with \nopioid medications](https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/retropolis/wp/2017/09/29/the-greatest-drug-fiends-in-the-world-an-american-opioid-crisis-in-1908/?utm_term=.04b0ec8c4779)\ncan be traced back to the post-Civil War era of the 1860s and 187os. At that time, morphine, opium and the opium-based laudanum were widely used for pain relief by everyone from Civil War veterans coping with what today would be called post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), to wealthy, bored society ladies. The problem was so widespread that in 1908, President Teddy Roosevelt appointed the first drug czar, known as the “Opium Commissioner.” \n\nThis ushered in an era of increasing regulation of morphine, opium and other opium-based substances, including heroin—a morphine derivative developed in 1899 by the German pharmaceutical giant Bayer. But doctors continued prescribing opioids, encouraged by advertisements and even scientific studies claiming that opioids were not addictive and entirely safe for relieving pain of all kinds.  \n\n\nAs HelloMD’s Chief Medical Officer Dr. Perry Solomon \nnotes, the current opioid epidemic can be traced to the mid- to late-1990s, when the medical community recognized the need to assess and treat pain as a condition all its own. After that, drug companies made it easy—and lucrative—for doctors to prescribe opioid medications that included not only morphine but also synthesized opiates like oxycontin, vicodin and oxycodone.  \n\n### How Pain Helped Shape the Opioid Crisis\n\nToday’s opioid crisis is also related to another phenomenon—an \n[epidemic of pain](https://nccih.nih.gov/news/press/08112015).\nChronic pain affects a growing number of Americans, and this pain is caused by conditions ranging from arthritis to cancer. Data collected by the National Institutes of Health reveal that nearly 25 million American adults experience chronic pain—and almost 40 million experience severe pain, which impacts their health, productivity and quality of life.  \n\nUnder pressure to provide relief, and encouraged by drug companies, doctors have enthusiastically embraced opioid painkillers—so much so that in the past decade alone, deaths from opioid overdose have outpaced accidental deaths from all other causes in some states. Addiction rates have soared, straining medical and social services and compromising whole communities where multiple generations live their lives on pain-related disability.\n\nThe opioid epidemic has also sparked an upswing in heroin addiction and overdose, as people turn to heroin when prescriptions become too expensive or hard to get. And because street heroin is often laced with even more potent synthetics like carfentanil or fentanyl, the potential for overdose and death becomes even greater. \n\n### Cannabis: Age-Old Pain Relief Is New Again\n\nIn some ways, the progression of [cannabis in American \nculture](https://medicalmarijuana.procon.org/view.timeline.php?timelineID=000026)\nparalleled the evolution of opioids. Just as people in years past turned to opium and its products for relief from pain and other conditions, many cultures embraced cannabis for the same reasons. But in the early years of the 20th century, cannabis, or marijuana, was seen largely as a vice of immigrants from Latin America, while the country worried about the widespread addiction to morphine and opium.\n\nIn the 1930s, familiar names in American pharmaceuticals such as Parke-Davis and Eli Lilly sold marijuana extracts as over-the-counter medicine, to be used for purposes including pain relief and sedation. But as opioids gained in popularity, they overtook the emerging medicinal marijuana industry and those products eventually vanished.\n\nBy the 1960s, marijuana was on the government’s radar once again, as it became the symbol of a defiant counterculture. In 1970, the Controlled Substances Act was passed. Not long after, President Richard Nixon declared war on drugs, and cannabis landed on the Act’s highly restricted Schedule 1, along with heroin, LSD and other psychoactive substances—all deemed to have no redeeming medical qualities.\n\nIn the years since, cannabis has become the subject of intense scientific study as researchers work to validate the claims of cannabis consumers that it can control pain as well as, or better than, opioids.\n\n ### Marijuana Beats Opioids for Pain Relief\n\nRecent landmark research by HelloMD in partnership with the University of California at Berkeley is part of the current crop of studies demonstrating the effectiveness of cannabis for pain. That study revealed that out of nearly 3,000 respondents surveyed:\n\n* 97% agreed they could decrease their use of opioids by using cannabis. \n* 95% preferred cannabis to opioids.\n* 81% said that cannabis was more effective for pain relief than their prescription opioids.\n\nAs the opioid crisis continues to damage lives and communities throughout the country, cannabis continues to gain legitimacy as an effective pain reliever without the side effects, risks and addictive potential of opioids. But the federal government remains firm in its opposition to easing restrictions on cannabis.\n\nAnd according to HelloMD’s Dr. Solomon, the pharmaceutical industry remains dedicated to promoting opioid use with a lobbying budget that topped $800 million in the past decade—a figure that dwarfs the spending of the gun lobby.  \n\nIn years past, medical marijuana was developed for pain control, but it was pushed aside by the popularity of opioids. Now, the tables could be turning. Cannabis could lead the way out of the opioid crisis—but the twin obstacles of federal restrictions and pharmaceutical lobbying remain.\n\nPhoto credit: [Eric Norris](https://www.flickr.com/photos/sfxeric/)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://hellomd.com/articles/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/9e390eee162e95dcb814dcd66ce669e8/14b42/076235970e41a6264d290dc220ac4c56.jpg","srcSet":"/static/9e390eee162e95dcb814dcd66ce669e8/f836f/076235970e41a6264d290dc220ac4c56.jpg 200w,\n/static/9e390eee162e95dcb814dcd66ce669e8/2244e/076235970e41a6264d290dc220ac4c56.jpg 400w,\n/static/9e390eee162e95dcb814dcd66ce669e8/14b42/076235970e41a6264d290dc220ac4c56.jpg 800w,\n/static/9e390eee162e95dcb814dcd66ce669e8/16310/076235970e41a6264d290dc220ac4c56.jpg 1024w","srcWebp":"/static/9e390eee162e95dcb814dcd66ce669e8/58556/076235970e41a6264d290dc220ac4c56.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/9e390eee162e95dcb814dcd66ce669e8/61e93/076235970e41a6264d290dc220ac4c56.webp 200w,\n/static/9e390eee162e95dcb814dcd66ce669e8/1f5c5/076235970e41a6264d290dc220ac4c56.webp 400w,\n/static/9e390eee162e95dcb814dcd66ce669e8/58556/076235970e41a6264d290dc220ac4c56.webp 800w,\n/static/9e390eee162e95dcb814dcd66ce669e8/cc834/076235970e41a6264d290dc220ac4c56.webp 1024w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2487-markdown","title":"How Opioids & Cannabinoids Interact to Boost Pain Relief","slug":"how-opioids-and-cannabinoids-interact-to-boost-pain-relief","content":"Some recreational marijuana users like to take an oxycodone or another kind of opioid at the same time as cannabis, saying that this intensifies the high. Other people who take opioids for pain say that when they use cannabis, they’re able to take fewer opioids—or none at all. These effects indicate that each of these substances is able to enhance the effects of the other, and [recent \r\nresearch](http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S147148920900157x) now reveals why this might be true.  \r\n\r\nNumerous new studies show that a majority of people who use marijuana are able to either reduce their use of opioids for pain or stop them altogether—great news in the fight against the growing “opioid epidemic” in the U.S. This is because the human body is naturally primed to respond to both these substances, with built-in systems for opioid and cannabinoid receptors—and [these two systems interact in surprising and synergistic ways](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14706563). \r\n\r\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\r\n\r\n### Opioid & Cannabinoid Receptor Systems Coexist—& Interact\r\n\r\nThe human body is rich in receptor systems—collections of cells that respond to the input of certain chemical triggers from inside and outside the body. Under ideal conditions, the body is able to manufacture its own supply of these chemicals, which regulate processes as diverse as mood, thinking and responses to pain. Substances from external sources can be similar enough to these natural chemicals to stimulate the same receptors. \r\n\r\nOver the past decade or so, a number of studies explored the relationship between opioids and marijuana for a better understanding of how these two systems interact in the brain and body. Some studies suggest that not only do cannabinoid and opioid receptors co-exist in many of the same areas of the brain, but that [opioids and cannabinoids may also directly interact with each other](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1751787/)\r\non a cellular level. \r\n\r\n### The Opioid Receptor System: Pleasure, Reward & Pain Control\r\n\r\nThe opioid receptor system is hard-wired into many areas of the brain, as well as the spine and digestive system, and is responsible for triggering responses related to pain control, pleasure and reward. The body produces its own naturally occurring opioids, including enkephalins, dynorphins and the endorphins responsible for the “high” folks experience while running and performing other kinds of exercise.  Opioid drugs, including prescription medications such as OxyContin or Vicodin, morphine, and the street drug heroin, also bind to these receptors, blocking pain signals and triggering powerful responses in the brain’s circuits of pleasure, reward and memory. \r\n\r\nBut opioid drugs can quickly overwhelm the body’s natural opioid receptor system. These drugs depress natural opioid production, causing a chain reaction that leads to rising levels of norepinephrine, a chemical responsible for stimulating respiration, heart rate and temperature, as well as the “flight or fight” response. Because the brainstem is rich in opioid receptors, an overdose of opioid drugs can depress those processes to the point of death.\r\n\r\nLong-term opioid use suppresses the excess norepinephrine that’s created when the body produces less of its natural opioids. When a person stops using opioids, this norepinephrine floods the system, causing the often severe effects of withdrawal. \r\n\r\n### The Endocannabinoid & Opioid Systems Overlap\r\n\r\nThe endocannabinoid system (ECS) is more widespread than the opioid system. The two known cannabinoid receptors, CB1 and CB2, are found in nearly every part of the body and respond both to the body’s own natural endocannabinoids—anandamide and 2AG—and to the very similar cannabis compounds tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD).  \r\n\r\nBecause cannabinoid receptors are so numerous throughout the body, it’s no surprise that these receptors share space with opioid receptors in many areas of the brain and spine— with one notable exception: the brainstem. The brainstem  is rich in opioid receptors but nearly free of cannabinoid ones. That explains why large doses of opioids can depress respiration and other functions to the point of death, but marijuana overdose alone does not cause death.\r\n\r\nRELATED: [WHAT IS THE ENDOCANNABINOID SYSTEM?](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/what-is-the-endocannabinoid-system)\r\n\r\nLarge numbers of opioid and cannabinoid receptors are found in areas of the brain related to pleasure, reward and pain control, so both [opioid drugs and cannabis can cause similar feelings of relaxation, euphoria and relief from pain](http://ns.umich.edu/new/releases/23622-medical-marijuana-reduces-use-of-opioid-pain-meds-decreases-risk-for-some-with-chronic-pain). But because of the opioid receptor system’s relatively limited distribution, its effects are largely confined to those three things. \r\n\r\nIn comparison, the ECS affects a wide range of processes and functions directly, or indirectly, by triggering responses in other kinds of receptors. But the [close proximity of those two receptor systems in key areas of the brain and spine]( https://www.ucsf.edu/news/2011/12/11077/ucsf-study-finds-medical-marijuana-could-help-patients-reduce-pain-opiates) make it possible for opioid drugs to affect the endocannabinoid system, and for cannabis to affect the opioid system.\r\n\r\n### Opioids & Cannabinoids Enhance Each Other’s Effects\r\n\r\nOpioids and cannabis compounds can also interact indirectly, as part of the signaling cross-talk among these and other systems in the body, so that they contribute to the expression of other kinds of neurotransmitters farther down the line. In that way, THC is able to enhance the potency of opioids, and certain opioid receptors can boost the pain-relieving properties of THC and CBD. \r\n\r\nCannabis can also make it easier to withdraw from opioids, because it moderates the mechanisms that trigger withdrawal symptoms and reduces the need for medications like methadone or buprenorphine to help folks get through withdrawal.\r\n\r\nPeople who consume opioid drugs and marijuana often say that these substances can have a significant effect on each other, and now science supports their claims. Opioid and cannabinoid receptors not only share space in the brain and spine, but opioids and cannabis can also interact on deeper levels, creating a synergy that boosts the effects of both. Many questions remain about the complicated interactions between these systems, but recent insights about their relationship may lead to new alternatives for pain control—and a way out of the epidemic of opioid abuse. \r\n\r\nPhoto credit: [Théo](https://www.flickr.com/photos/lenny_montana/)\r\n\r\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/68c51425dc40d954d23680d6460b94a5/14b42/4bf375dd2b5c23be150f87d39a3e2a52.jpg","srcSet":"/static/68c51425dc40d954d23680d6460b94a5/f836f/4bf375dd2b5c23be150f87d39a3e2a52.jpg 200w,\n/static/68c51425dc40d954d23680d6460b94a5/2244e/4bf375dd2b5c23be150f87d39a3e2a52.jpg 400w,\n/static/68c51425dc40d954d23680d6460b94a5/14b42/4bf375dd2b5c23be150f87d39a3e2a52.jpg 800w,\n/static/68c51425dc40d954d23680d6460b94a5/47498/4bf375dd2b5c23be150f87d39a3e2a52.jpg 1200w,\n/static/68c51425dc40d954d23680d6460b94a5/0e329/4bf375dd2b5c23be150f87d39a3e2a52.jpg 1600w,\n/static/68c51425dc40d954d23680d6460b94a5/745df/4bf375dd2b5c23be150f87d39a3e2a52.jpg 1946w","srcWebp":"/static/68c51425dc40d954d23680d6460b94a5/58556/4bf375dd2b5c23be150f87d39a3e2a52.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/68c51425dc40d954d23680d6460b94a5/61e93/4bf375dd2b5c23be150f87d39a3e2a52.webp 200w,\n/static/68c51425dc40d954d23680d6460b94a5/1f5c5/4bf375dd2b5c23be150f87d39a3e2a52.webp 400w,\n/static/68c51425dc40d954d23680d6460b94a5/58556/4bf375dd2b5c23be150f87d39a3e2a52.webp 800w,\n/static/68c51425dc40d954d23680d6460b94a5/99238/4bf375dd2b5c23be150f87d39a3e2a52.webp 1200w,\n/static/68c51425dc40d954d23680d6460b94a5/7c22d/4bf375dd2b5c23be150f87d39a3e2a52.webp 1600w,\n/static/68c51425dc40d954d23680d6460b94a5/07df4/4bf375dd2b5c23be150f87d39a3e2a52.webp 1946w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2252-markdown","title":"3 Popular Questions about Marijuana & Chronic Pain Answered","slug":"3-popular-questions-about-marijuana-and-chronic-pain-answered","content":"Chronic pain is one of the [top five conditions that cannabis treats effectively](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/59b972438d45173d03753604/top-5-conditions-cannabis-treats-effectively). HelloMD and UC Berkeley recently released a study that found [97% of medical cannabis patients on pain medication felt cannabis provided enough relief to allow them to decrease their opioid use](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/595413ae914ae4001b40307a/hellomd-and-uc-berkeley-release-study-on-cannabis-use-as-a-substitute-for-opioid-and-non-opioid-based-pain-medication). Marijuana’s ability to successfully treat pain with few side effects, combined with its various methods of consumption, make it a great alternative to pharmaceutical medications. \n\nFor people interested in learning more about treating their chronic pain, we’ve highlighted some of the most popular questions about chronic pain and marijuana below. Our [Answers](https://www.hellomd.com/answers) platform is also a good resource—you can reach out and ask questions to our community of cannabis users, which includes nurses and doctors. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Q: CBD vs. THC? What's the difference and which works better for pain?\n\nAnswer: @Didi\nThanks for asking this question as it does come up often. When addressing pain, the answer is that THC works far better for pain relief than just CBD alone. If fact, pain relief is the main effect that THC seems to deliver in whatever form it is taken. The raw form of THC, called THCA is also very good for inflammation which when applied results in pain relief as well.\nCBD on the other hand, is extremely good for seizures, muscle spasms, depression, anxiety, and also for inflammation. I have heard athletes say they tried pure CBD oil on neck pain & it didn't help but when using THC they got the pain relief they were looking for. A combination of THC & CBD is also a very good option.\n\n`embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nFzrZj0IHs0`\n\n[Read more answers to this question.](https://www.hellomd.com/answers/58335d7c10dcd4000ca7dda3/cbd-vs-thc-what-s-the-difference-and-which-works-better-for-pain)\n\n### Q: What is the best medication for excruciating back pain? I need help fast!\n\nAnswer: @DrFryeDr\nChronic back pain, be it caused by neuropathy, inflammation, or muscle spasm, can be alleviated with medicinal cannabis. A variety with a 1:1 ratio of THC:CBD maximizes the analgesic, muscle-relaxing, and anti-inflammatory activity, reduces anxiety, and elevates the mood . Patients who use this ratio remain clear minded, focused, and productive without feeling high or stoned. Topical cannabis salves and lotions are also very effective in reducing or eliminating pain. For more severe back pain, a bit more THC can be pain-distracting. Meaning, while pain may still be present, the patient isn't \"bothered\" by it.\n\n`embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zyrq11rNcL4`\n\n[Read more answers to this question.](https://www.hellomd.com/answers/576c67ea1a91ec0007000098/what-is-the-best-medication-for-excruciating-back-pain-i-need-help-fast)\n\nRELATED: [THE TOP 3 CANNABIS TOPICALS FOR BACK PAIN](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/589b56e47a547a0008f2c9ce/top-3-marijuana-topicals-for-back-pain)\n\n### Q: Can I use cannabis as a replacement for Vicodin?\n***I suffer from chronic back pain and have been using vicodin. However, my doctor has stated that I need to end my reliance on this drug, and I am looking for a replacement. Advill and others don't provide the relief I am looking for. What cannabis products might be a good choice for me?***\n\nAnswer: [@PerrySolomonMDChief](https://www.hellomd.com/people/54cc02df6465320003000000/perry-solomon-md)\nCannabis has had more and more positive feedback in people trying to cut down or eliminate their opioid use. Every day in the United States about 44 people die as result of opioid overdoses. There has never been a reported death from cannabis use. Donald Abrams, MD, a professor of medicine at University of California, San Francisco, has studied the effects of medical marijuana on pain since the mid-1990s. In 2011, he published a small study of 21 patients that found that the addition of marijuana to a twice-daily opioid regimen led to a 25 percent reduction in pain. It suggests cannabis could allow pain patients to lower their opioid dosage and still get pain relief.\n\nIt seems that patients can get short term pain relief from cannabis that contains only 1.3 percent tetrahydrocannabinol (or THC), the ingredient that gives marijuana its psychotropic effects. Pot used for recreational purposes has 6 to 12 percent THC, but can go as high as 20 percent. A higher concentration of cannabidiol (CBD) mixed with a little THC seems to be the best bet for decreasing opioid use. There is one called “20:1,” named for its ratio of CBD to THC. \n\nThe fastest way to obtain relief is by smoking or vaping the cannabis product. Tinctures or capsules are effective as well as using an edible that can last the longest.\n\n`embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6XviriBbciU`\n\n[Read more answers to this question.](https://www.hellomd.com/answers/571e4eac90a4f9000c000012/can-i-use-cannabis-as-a-replacement-for-vicodin)\n\nPhoto credit: [Jacob Postuma](https://unsplash.com/@jp_photography)\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 100% online, private and efficient.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAANABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGAAAAwEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIDAQT/xAAVAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAACA//aAAwDAQACEAMQAAAB63i8a4QEf//EABsQAAIBBQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECAAMREyEx/9oACAEBAAEFAgYrFmzw8onTEX//xAAXEQEAAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQIR/9oACAEDAQE/AbMh/8QAFxEBAAMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECEv/aAAgBAgEBPwGrUv/EABkQAQACAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABMWGBkv/aAAgBAQAGPwJhUdJaU//EABwQAAMAAQUAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABESExQVGBsf/aAAgBAQABPyF4maKMoeXsHkNkUflh7O+z/9oADAMBAAIAAwAAABBrD//EABURAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEQ/9oACAEDAQE/EAQ//8QAFhEBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARAR/9oACAECAQE/EG7D/8QAHBABAQEAAgMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAREAMUEhYZFx/9oACAEBAAE/EDFjBUr4/cgkNcy+/mARCPQPyamEwS0e0MnOrnQS7//Z","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/0ed97f97f89556ad0b5d95fc56b99815/14b42/db595be94a5de6109d2f695714dba08c.jpg","srcSet":"/static/0ed97f97f89556ad0b5d95fc56b99815/f836f/db595be94a5de6109d2f695714dba08c.jpg 200w,\n/static/0ed97f97f89556ad0b5d95fc56b99815/2244e/db595be94a5de6109d2f695714dba08c.jpg 400w,\n/static/0ed97f97f89556ad0b5d95fc56b99815/14b42/db595be94a5de6109d2f695714dba08c.jpg 800w,\n/static/0ed97f97f89556ad0b5d95fc56b99815/47498/db595be94a5de6109d2f695714dba08c.jpg 1200w,\n/static/0ed97f97f89556ad0b5d95fc56b99815/a6974/db595be94a5de6109d2f695714dba08c.jpg 1536w","srcWebp":"/static/0ed97f97f89556ad0b5d95fc56b99815/58556/db595be94a5de6109d2f695714dba08c.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/0ed97f97f89556ad0b5d95fc56b99815/61e93/db595be94a5de6109d2f695714dba08c.webp 200w,\n/static/0ed97f97f89556ad0b5d95fc56b99815/1f5c5/db595be94a5de6109d2f695714dba08c.webp 400w,\n/static/0ed97f97f89556ad0b5d95fc56b99815/58556/db595be94a5de6109d2f695714dba08c.webp 800w,\n/static/0ed97f97f89556ad0b5d95fc56b99815/99238/db595be94a5de6109d2f695714dba08c.webp 1200w,\n/static/0ed97f97f89556ad0b5d95fc56b99815/d5052/db595be94a5de6109d2f695714dba08c.webp 1536w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2311-markdown","title":"Lifestyle Changes You Can Make to Prevent Migraines","slug":"lifestyle-changes-you-can-make-to-prevent-migraines","content":"[Pamela Hadfield](https://www.linkedin.com/in/pamela-hadfield-19a986), the co-founder of [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/), suffered from “head-splitting” migraines that would leave her in bed for days, beginning when she was 14. She was prescribed traditional migraine medication—which didn’t always work and had unpleasant side effects, leaving her “foggy and practically comatose in bed.” Pamela finally found relief years later after trying [cannabidiol (CBD)](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/how-does-cannabis-work-to-relieve-migraines) sublingual spray. That experience—and the relief she found using cannabis—was what inspired her to begin HelloMD.\n\nHere are several lifestyle changes you can incorporate into your day—including **adding cannabis** to your daily routine—to help you get a handle on preventing and managing your migraines.\n\n![Hello4-min (23).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello4_min_23_489cb45ba1.png)\n\n### Microdose With Marijuana to Keep Migraines at Bay\n\nTaking very small amounts of cannabis is also known as [microdosing](https://www.hellomd.com/tag/microdosing) and can be an effective way to medicate. [CBD](https://www.hellomd.com/tag/cbd) has been shown to relieve neurogenic pain, and [tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)](https://www.hellomd.com/tag/thc) has anti-inflammatory properties—both can help reduce migraines. \n\n![Hello1-min (28).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello1_min_28_5c6cd240aa.png)\n\n### Stay Hydrated to Ward Off Migraines\n\nGetting enough water throughout the day keeps you from getting dehydrated, which is a common trigger for migraines. To make sure you’re getting enough fluids, set a daily water intake goal and try to keep a water bottle nearby. Eating fruits and vegetables that are high in water content can help too. Some good choices are watermelons, strawberries, zucchini, and cucumbers.\n\n![Hello4-min (22).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello4_min_22_6ff20480bb.png)\n\n### Practise a New Response to Stress\n\nIt’s no secret that chronic stress and anxiety lead to tension throughout the body, so learning how to manage your mood can do a lot to help reduce migraines. Finding an outlet like physical movement (yoga, walking, stretching), meditation, listening to calming music, or just having a good laugh can all help you decompress and prevent your body from responding to stress with a raging migraine.\n\n![iStock-1255853773-min.jpg](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/i_Stock_1255853773_min_d8fad890f8.jpg)\n\n### Keep Your Sleep Routine in Check\n\nWhile you’re asleep, your body does most of its repair, but too much sleep can be just as much of a problem as sleeping too little. Pay attention to your sleep patterns and take note if it’s late nights with little sleep that triggers your migraines or if it’s sleeping in for too long that makes the difference. If possible, try to avoid major changes in your sleep schedule that may disrupt your normal routine and throw off your body’s internal clock. \n\n![Hello3-min (24).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello3_min_24_97f7880cd2.png)\n\n### Get Physical to Reduce Migraine Frequency\n\nSpeaking of physical movement, studies have shown—and many migraine sufferers report—a [reduction in migraine frequency with regular exercise](https://americanmigrainefoundation.org/understanding-migraine/effects-of-exercise-on-headaches-and-migraines/). When you exercise, your body releases endorphins, which act as a natural painkiller and stress reliever, and also help improve sleep. The key is finding a physical activity you like and are more likely to stick with, whatever it is. Just be careful not to start any exercise if you’re already in the middle of a migraine episode, and avoid extremely strenuous activities as they can trigger migraines. \n\n![iStock-825886208-min.jpg](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/i_Stock_825886208_min_cd6c860a0f.jpg)\n\n### Avoid Foods that Are Potential Migraine Triggers\n\nFor some people, [foods high in histamines, nitrates, sulfates, and/or tyramine](https://migraine.com/blog/elimination-diet-foods-to-eat-foods-to-avoid/) such as avocados, bananas, citrus fruits, soy, cured and processed meats, aged cheese, red wine, nuts, and chocolate can trigger a migraine. It may be helpful to keep a food diary so you can pinpoint foods that coincide with your migraines. That way, you can start making some informed changes to your diet as a means of prevention.\n\nHopefully, with a little bit of experimentation, you’ll find the right combination of sleep schedule, eating patterns, and cannabis consumption to help you live your best life—migraine-free.\n\n### Get a Medical Marijuana Card Online\n\nIt's easy to get your medical marijuana document with the online [Telehealth service HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/get-started/). Register, pay, and receive an online medical consultation with a licensed practitioner and purchase medical cannabis today. You don't pay unless you're approved!","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAANABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGAAAAgMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQBAwX/xAAWAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAACAAH/2gAMAwEAAhADEAAAAdZFq0qRMy//xAAZEAEAAwEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAAISAzL/2gAIAQEAAQUCs5rxTc9WagbSf//EABYRAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAASMf/aAAgBAwEBPwHEv//EABYRAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAASMf/aAAgBAgEBPwHVP//EAB0QAAICAQUAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABESECECIxMmH/2gAIAQEABj8CbMd3ZX7pD4KSIP/EABsQAQACAwEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAESExQRCh/9oACAEBAAE/Idb4LzBUJbbfXigneiPY0pc1FOWp/9oADAMBAAIAAwAAABALP//EABcRAAMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABIRH/2gAIAQMBAT8QkM2f/8QAFxEAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAERIf/aAAgBAgEBPxBXSIP/xAAcEAEAAgMAAwAAAAAAAAAAAAABETEAIUEQYZH/2gAIAQEAAT8Q3IJ5KCu48MuYstdU78EJdsiU38xMUQ9BiYJpM5//2Q==","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/063ae26ab4857dfb3b3b0116517a9bbd/14b42/ec160ea23557fd35afe2fc391fc82b9a.jpg","srcSet":"/static/063ae26ab4857dfb3b3b0116517a9bbd/f836f/ec160ea23557fd35afe2fc391fc82b9a.jpg 200w,\n/static/063ae26ab4857dfb3b3b0116517a9bbd/2244e/ec160ea23557fd35afe2fc391fc82b9a.jpg 400w,\n/static/063ae26ab4857dfb3b3b0116517a9bbd/14b42/ec160ea23557fd35afe2fc391fc82b9a.jpg 800w,\n/static/063ae26ab4857dfb3b3b0116517a9bbd/47498/ec160ea23557fd35afe2fc391fc82b9a.jpg 1200w,\n/static/063ae26ab4857dfb3b3b0116517a9bbd/2d2b9/ec160ea23557fd35afe2fc391fc82b9a.jpg 1254w","srcWebp":"/static/063ae26ab4857dfb3b3b0116517a9bbd/58556/ec160ea23557fd35afe2fc391fc82b9a.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/063ae26ab4857dfb3b3b0116517a9bbd/61e93/ec160ea23557fd35afe2fc391fc82b9a.webp 200w,\n/static/063ae26ab4857dfb3b3b0116517a9bbd/1f5c5/ec160ea23557fd35afe2fc391fc82b9a.webp 400w,\n/static/063ae26ab4857dfb3b3b0116517a9bbd/58556/ec160ea23557fd35afe2fc391fc82b9a.webp 800w,\n/static/063ae26ab4857dfb3b3b0116517a9bbd/99238/ec160ea23557fd35afe2fc391fc82b9a.webp 1200w,\n/static/063ae26ab4857dfb3b3b0116517a9bbd/3c324/ec160ea23557fd35afe2fc391fc82b9a.webp 1254w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2430-markdown","title":"3 Popular Questions About Marijuana and Migraines Answered","slug":"3-popular-questions-about-marijuana-and-migraines-answered","content":"The healing compounds found in cannabis play a major role in helping people manage all types of pain, from physical discomfort to debilitating migraines. If you’re looking for information on how marijuana can be used to treat some of your symptoms, the [Answers](https://www.hellomd.com/answers) is a helpful tool to turn to if you’d like to educate yourself. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\nThis week, we highlight 3 popular questions and answers we have received:\n\n### Q: Can cannabis help alleviate migraines?\n\n***I have had bad migraines that come at the same time monthly and sometimes I experience nausea. This has been happening since I was a teenager. I am wondering if cannabis can help stop them and/or alleviate the pain.***\n\nAnswer: @drbluto\n\nHeadaches in women, particularly migraines, are tied to shifts in the levels of the female hormone estrogen during your menstrual cycle. Estrogen levels drop right before the start of your menstrual flow.

\n\nCannabis has been shown to reduce the frequency of migraines and it also works quickly to relieve the symptoms of tension headaches as they occur.

\n\nMigraines may be the result of generators such as a bright light or loud noises triggers a chemical reaction in the brain. We have our own built-in endocannabinoid system that produces a substance called anandamide that is very similar in structure to cannabis. Sometimes our endocannabinoids, usually released to restore equilibrium, are low. When this happens and we have endocannabinoid dysfunction, resulting in an inability for the brain to normalize communication. Without these endocannabinoids and their respective functions, a migraine may subsequently occurs.

\n\nThere is plenty of anecdotal evidence that has shown the effectiveness of cannabis in treating pain caused by migraines and chronic headaches.

\n\nVarious strains that may help include the Hazes, Purple Urkle, Grand Daddy Purple and Purple Kush. If migraines occur frequently, a very small, daily dose of THC may be helpful. Many people have also successfully used CBD tinctures to alleviate migraines.\n\n[Read more answers to this question](https://www.hellomd.com/answers/571e4c7490a4f9000800000f/can-cannabis-help-alleviate-migraines)\n\nRELATED: [Migraines: How I Got off Pain Meds and Found Relief with Cannabis](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5595d75d3264380006170000/migraines-how-i-got-off-pain-meds-and-found-relief-with-cannabis)\n\n`embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JMkAr4gMhLw` \n\n### Q: I get migraines and I hear that cannabis can help to relieve this. What strain is best for migraines?\n\nAnswer: [@pamelahadfield](https://www.hellomd.com/people/pamelahadfield)\n\nI've suffered from migraines for most of my life and cannabis has helped me manage the pain better than anything I have tried so far. My assumption, since you are asking for a strain, is that your preference is to smoke. In my own experience, I have found that I layer different products to help manage the migraine before I get it and to manage the pain during the migraine itself.

\n\nIn terms of strains, it is highly dependent on how your body and your own endocannabinoid system is wired and what your body wants and needs. The cannabinoid receptors in your brain become active when you ingest marijuana and this seems to have a positive impact on migraine headaches. A 2007 animal study found that increased activity within the endocannabinoid system led to reduction in pain signals for instance.

\n\nResearching strains you will find some people prefer Sativa and others insist only Indica works. For me only a CBD dominant strain does the trick. Below I will give you a popular & easily found Sativa, Indica, a Hybrid and my personal favorite a CBD dominant strain which I use often.

\n\n>* Sativa: Sour Diesel & Harlequin
\n>* Indica: Purple Kush &
\n>* Hybrid: Girl Scout Cookie & Lemon OG Kush
\n>* CBD dominant: ACDC (non psychoactive) 

\n\nAs I mentioned above, I layer my products. It is important for me to catch a headache before it becomes full blown. I use a CBD dominant sublingual spray of 8 parts CBD to 1 part THC as soon as a I feel a headache coming in. Cannabidiol (CBD) is both an analgesic and an anti inflammatory. I carry an ACDC vape pen with me. I also use a topical cream on my neck-my personal favorite in California is called Sweet Releaf. I will also use a mild THC tincture (low in milligrams) which seems to relax me.

\n\nAs a precaution, I take CBD on a daily basis to keep inflammation under control. I also do daily doses of both vitamin B6 and B12 which in studies has shown to reduce migraines two fold for patients after taking it for 6 months. I also take a magnesium supplement daily as people with migraines have shown lower levels than average.

\n\nCannabis is not a silver bullet for migraines, but it got me off of migraine meds and Vicodin. Everyone is different and my suggestion is to start low and slow and micro dose with anything that is new to you. Lastly, some people find that edibles help with their migraines, but I do not seem to tolerate them well.

\n\nI hope this helps!\n\n[Read more answers to this question.](https://www.hellomd.com/answers/571fa617088912000800002c/i-get-migraines-and-i-hear-that-cannabis-can-help-to-relieve-this-what-strain-is-best-for-migraines)\n\n### Q: Can you use CBD oil while on prescription meds for migraines?\n\nAnswer: @andrewvanMD\n\nYes CBD oil and cannabis in general does not cause adverse drug reactions when taken along with other medications. Often it is best to utilize cannabis as a method to lower the amounts of prescription medication needed to manage the migraines.\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 100% online, private and efficient.  
\n\nPhoto credit: [Flickr](https://www.flickr.com/photos/juliendn/3347475063/in/photolist-66NFHi-b3f7Vk-9T5NhA-XsWHQW-4jgG4Q-cdS8Fw-8U5fjB-q8v4et-r61Ds-5oSuB8-5oSuR4-bozCaR-Gvu2Y-8S7RNq-5U3dFX-4dQ7u1-bWuMG6-boQY6P-jVxKFt-8itTvL-bGVJQ6-4g9KYB-Wy82Gy-9Xq6Uo-pobQLw-4D5dGv-feyXq6-oC91d-d4DUwQ-75hHEz-8Xne2F-bEisVR-gzY2NL-7hjdc5-9yc1Rn-9oFAgg-brous1-LNngPF-fF2EYv-8YxUaP-e5seW7-6wCBfE-dhiwUP-dhix9L-8puMam-8K6iem-SWX1Ww-7XdYzg-9oY1bo-7gVQDj)","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.25,"src":"/static/b4d7976d95f2545c77c9e24e0d585ae3/14b42/9023d6d9be4e40c78ba5efaa2a47f4f5.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b4d7976d95f2545c77c9e24e0d585ae3/f836f/9023d6d9be4e40c78ba5efaa2a47f4f5.jpg 200w,\n/static/b4d7976d95f2545c77c9e24e0d585ae3/2244e/9023d6d9be4e40c78ba5efaa2a47f4f5.jpg 400w,\n/static/b4d7976d95f2545c77c9e24e0d585ae3/14b42/9023d6d9be4e40c78ba5efaa2a47f4f5.jpg 800w,\n/static/b4d7976d95f2545c77c9e24e0d585ae3/10d63/9023d6d9be4e40c78ba5efaa2a47f4f5.jpg 1080w","srcWebp":"/static/b4d7976d95f2545c77c9e24e0d585ae3/58556/9023d6d9be4e40c78ba5efaa2a47f4f5.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/b4d7976d95f2545c77c9e24e0d585ae3/61e93/9023d6d9be4e40c78ba5efaa2a47f4f5.webp 200w,\n/static/b4d7976d95f2545c77c9e24e0d585ae3/1f5c5/9023d6d9be4e40c78ba5efaa2a47f4f5.webp 400w,\n/static/b4d7976d95f2545c77c9e24e0d585ae3/58556/9023d6d9be4e40c78ba5efaa2a47f4f5.webp 800w,\n/static/b4d7976d95f2545c77c9e24e0d585ae3/54d25/9023d6d9be4e40c78ba5efaa2a47f4f5.webp 1080w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2466-markdown","title":"How Cannabis Helps Reduce Chronic Pain","slug":"how-cannabis-helps-reduce-chronic-pain","content":"The results of a study conducted by the University of New Mexico reports that [patients taking legal cannabis to treat their chronic pain are more likely to reduce their use of prescriptions drugs](http://blog.norml.org/2017/09/18/study-medical-cannabis-registrants-reduce-their-prescription-drug-use/). When compared with patients who didn’t use cannabis, 36% of those who did consume marijuana used fewer prescription medications by the end of the study. Meanwhile, 34% stopped using prescription drugs entirely. As legalization continues to expand, news from this and [other studies](http://norml.org/aboutmarijuana/item/relationship-between-marijuana-and-opioids) reinforce cannabis’s ability to not only effectively treat certain illnesses, but also reduce patients’ dependence on prescription medications.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\nChronic pain is the most recent addition to New York’s list of qualifying conditions, and after the release of the study’s results we spoke to [Nelson Cuevas](https://www.hellomd.com/people/nelsonc), general manager and head pharmacist at PharmaCannis to learn more about how cannabis helps patients with chronic pain.\n\n### What Is Chronic Pain?\n\nThe purpose of pain is to inform the body that it’s sick or injured, and when the illness or injury heals, the pain is supposed to go away. The difference with chronic pain is that it lingers. “We define chronic pain as something that the patient suffers from on a daily basis for months, even years,” Nelson says. Common ailments that many people deal with regularly may also fall into this category. “Chronic pain can be arthritis,” adds Nelson. “Even migraines can be considered chronic pain.”\n\nRELATED: [NEW RESEARCH PROVES MARIJUANA EFFECTIVELY CONTROLS CHRONIC PAIN](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/598f893156ef1d0031b26cb0/new-research-proves-marijuana-effectively-controls-chronic-pain)\n\n### The Cannabis Solution for Chronic Pain\n\nWhile patients dealing with chronic pain have to find ways to manage their physical symptoms, they’re also faced with the emotional and mental burden that comes with constantly being in pain. Medical cannabis can offer pain relief while also giving patients strain variations that can help with sleep and lift their spirits. \n\nFor chronic pain sufferers, method of ingestion is key. “Cannabis works best when taken orally,” Nelson says. “When you ingest a dose of tincture, it’s processed through your liver, and it extends the duration of action from six to eight hours per dosing.” Dosing in this way makes it easier for patients to receive up to 24 hours of relief. Says Nelson, “That’s huge for patients who are suffering from chronic pain.” \n\nThe ability for patients to layer multiple forms of ingestion to address their pain management needs is one of the most significant benefits of medical cannabis. “The normal pain wave for a patient with chronic pain is that it’s up and down all day long,” says Nelson. “A strategy that we love to use here at PharmaCannis is, along with the tincture, we also recommend for the patient to use a vape for any breakthrough pain that the he or she may go through.”\n\nPatients start with the oral form first to establish a baseline of pain relief that lasts for several hours, then use the vape to offer on-demand relief if needed. “The benefit is that since they already have a baseline of cannabis in their body via the tincture or capsule, they tend to vape less; so they’re not constantly vaping,” says Nelson.\n\nPatients can safely use a vape in tandem with an oral method because cannabis isn’t considered to be addictive in nature, offering them peace of mind in addition to flexibility and convenience. “The peak is not as high because the patient already has that baseline of cannabis in their system, so the amount of pain is just not as sharp, and cannabis will help the patient to even better bring the pain down to a good equilibrium.”\n\n### Best Methods of Ingesting Marijuana\n\nFor patients considering medical cannabis for chronic pain, oral forms of administration are the way to go. “The best methods of ingestion are tincture or pill,” Nelson says, “which are ingested and processed by the body the same way. The key is to take medical cannabis orally so [patients] can get a longer duration of action, supplemented with a vape for breakthrough pain.”\n\nPharmaCannis offers an assortment of tinctures, capsules and vape oils. \n\n**Tinctures:**\n>* 20:1 THC to CBD\n>* 2:1 THC to CBD\n>* 1:1 THC to CBD\n>* 1:4 THC to CBD\n>* 1:20 THC to CBD\n\n**High-THC Capsules:**\n>* 5 mg capsules\n>* 9.5 mg capsules (similar to the 20:1 THC to CBD tincture, which has 9.5 mg of THC to less than 0.5 mg of CBD)\n\n**High-THC Vape Oils:**\n>* Sativa: energizing, uplifting\n>* Indica: relaxation\n>* Hybrid: combination relaxation and uplifting\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.  \n\nPhoto credit: [Flickr](https://www.flickr.com/photos/kurdphotos/36160158563/in/photolist-X6mgkH-XwPmtN-gciLsa-RPeq34-Wxet2J-RRxVH5-URkrj5-dU9ewP-dU92RF-YLseXw-rG1K7X-qorV9z-VMqQiS-TNWW7t-qRjFXD-DTAQh-URWHc3-psgbhA-rd7jpk-eDCsEC-bxsnoV-eduEZc-6FCNnd-diHFma-UkkDCt-poMyYt-VGWwgx-5rq2CG-Hh6Vpq-YSo63z-8rctdN-VdQggA-k1vW6k-U3Mxtr-e1fevJ-5iTiaq-8weWgy-kQczVi-Xs6paY-XK6w5h-Vh963L-6WkUxr-V2Vfs3-ihyYk3-SVLRTU-6g28FU-kykJM-9KDpmJ-WNk6oK-8MDMtn)","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/6f69f5558d95dfe1a96c17de7a854ed4/14b42/a5c2b0dd9450e2ab8aabc06cdbf87f8f.jpg","srcSet":"/static/6f69f5558d95dfe1a96c17de7a854ed4/f836f/a5c2b0dd9450e2ab8aabc06cdbf87f8f.jpg 200w,\n/static/6f69f5558d95dfe1a96c17de7a854ed4/2244e/a5c2b0dd9450e2ab8aabc06cdbf87f8f.jpg 400w,\n/static/6f69f5558d95dfe1a96c17de7a854ed4/14b42/a5c2b0dd9450e2ab8aabc06cdbf87f8f.jpg 800w,\n/static/6f69f5558d95dfe1a96c17de7a854ed4/47498/a5c2b0dd9450e2ab8aabc06cdbf87f8f.jpg 1200w,\n/static/6f69f5558d95dfe1a96c17de7a854ed4/3e6ba/a5c2b0dd9450e2ab8aabc06cdbf87f8f.jpg 1535w","srcWebp":"/static/6f69f5558d95dfe1a96c17de7a854ed4/58556/a5c2b0dd9450e2ab8aabc06cdbf87f8f.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/6f69f5558d95dfe1a96c17de7a854ed4/61e93/a5c2b0dd9450e2ab8aabc06cdbf87f8f.webp 200w,\n/static/6f69f5558d95dfe1a96c17de7a854ed4/1f5c5/a5c2b0dd9450e2ab8aabc06cdbf87f8f.webp 400w,\n/static/6f69f5558d95dfe1a96c17de7a854ed4/58556/a5c2b0dd9450e2ab8aabc06cdbf87f8f.webp 800w,\n/static/6f69f5558d95dfe1a96c17de7a854ed4/99238/a5c2b0dd9450e2ab8aabc06cdbf87f8f.webp 1200w,\n/static/6f69f5558d95dfe1a96c17de7a854ed4/83e09/a5c2b0dd9450e2ab8aabc06cdbf87f8f.webp 1535w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2434-markdown","title":"Why My Surgical Patients Prefer Cannabis Over Opioids","slug":"why-my-surgical-patients-prefer-cannabis-over-opioids","content":"My name is Dr. Mark Kimmins. From an early age, I knew I wanted to be a surgeon; I happily put in countless years of studying conventional medicine, did my surgical residency and then a fellowship in colorectal surgery at the Northwest Colon and Rectal Clinic in Seattle, WA. I’m now a colorectal surgeon in Anchorage, AK.\n\nAll told, I’ve been a doctor for 23 years. But I've been pro-marijuana for much longer than that.\n\n### It Started in High School (but not how You Think ...)\n\nGrowing up in British Columbia, I was exposed to marijuana from an early age. Cannabis was effectively, but not officially, decriminalized in western Canada at that time. I knew lawyers, doctors, police and teachers who used it socially and the hypocrisy—particularly with regard to the risks of alcohol vs. marijuana—was already evident to me.\n\nBack in grade eight (in 1981!), I wrote an essay about why marijuana should be legalized. Believe it or not, it started with evidence from the 1972 Nixon Shafer Commission report, which concluded that marijuana posed no significant danger to society and should be decriminalized.\n\nMany years passed before I had any more real exposure to medical cannabis. While I remained pro-marijuana, during medical school and residency, we had no formal teaching related to the potential benefits of cannabis for our patients. And I completed my sub-specialty training (and practiced medicine) in Seattle before Washington state legalized marijuana.\n\nThat said, my father used cannabis during chemotherapy and radiation treatment for brain cancer. He reported improvement in balance, less nausea, better appetite and less pain.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en) \n\n### Is Marijuana a Viable Option Instead of Opioids for Post-op Pain?\n\nNow practicing in Alaska, it's evident that the wave of pro-cannabis ballot initiatives has allowed my patients to feel empowered to ask about, and comment on, the benefits of marijuana in their recovery from surgery.\n\nAs a colorectal surgeon, I frequently perform hemorrhoid surgery, a surgery known as one of the most painful to recover from. The acute severe pain typically lasts one to three weeks, during which patients are often kept on continuous oral opiates.\n\n![Dr. Kimmins at work.](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/58b4d1f8afae7a000f75a4ba/embedded_images/58b616e9079e1000072111df/Screen_Shot_2017-02-28_at_4.32.11_PM.png)\nDr. Kimmins at work.\n\nWhile these medications are partly effective for pain relief, they’re sedating, constipating, and carry risks of respiratory depression and drug tolerance. And they can invoke the beginning of drug dependencies, and in rare cases, bring on drug-related deaths. I’ve personally observed two patients die from the consequences of an opioid addiction that began with elective but very painful anorectal surgery.\n\nRELATED: [CANNABIS: AN EXIT DRUG FOR THE OPIOID EPIDEMIC?](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-an-exit-drug-for-the-opioid-epidemic)\n\nNot long ago, one of my patients returned after hemorrhoid surgery and shared that he hadn’t suffered as much as expected during recovery. He’d only used half of his prescribed opioids and explained that regular cannabis consumption had dulled the pain better than the opiates, yet didn’t cause constipation.\n\nSince seeing that patient, and now that marijuana is legal in Alaska, I regularly ask patients if they’re cannabis consumers. If yes, I suggest how it might help with post-op pain and have found in follow-up that this group takes far fewer opiates and suffers from far less constipation.\n\nThe opiate-sparing benefits of cannabis are now being validated in multiple studies; still I refrain from widespread recommendation of cannabis to my patients mostly due to concerns that it remains illegal federally, and my federal DEA license requires adherence to federal law.\n\n### Cannabis: One of the Widest Therapeutic Index Values Known to Science\n\nAmong the many benefits of cannabis is that it doesn’t suppress respiration or other vital organ functions as opiates do. This makes cannabis one of the widest therapeutic index values (gap between effective and lethal dose of a drug) known to science. Hence, its seemingly unmatched safety record. All effective medicines have potential toxicities, but acute marijuana toxicity is exceedingly rare.\n\nWe stand at the dawn of understanding the benefits of cannabis for the treatment of medical conditions, including acute post-operative pain. I look so forward to research that may validate the anecdotal claims of my patients and better inform us on effective dosing and delivery methods.\n\nMark H. Kimmins, MD, FRCSC, FACS, FASCRS\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-101-what-you-need-to-know-about-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.342281879194631,"src":"/static/74ced02199ff72b72a631259068c5abb/14b42/4fedd02e7a5b5574d47ed6b107682c89.jpg","srcSet":"/static/74ced02199ff72b72a631259068c5abb/f836f/4fedd02e7a5b5574d47ed6b107682c89.jpg 200w,\n/static/74ced02199ff72b72a631259068c5abb/2244e/4fedd02e7a5b5574d47ed6b107682c89.jpg 400w,\n/static/74ced02199ff72b72a631259068c5abb/14b42/4fedd02e7a5b5574d47ed6b107682c89.jpg 800w,\n/static/74ced02199ff72b72a631259068c5abb/47498/4fedd02e7a5b5574d47ed6b107682c89.jpg 1200w,\n/static/74ced02199ff72b72a631259068c5abb/3a12e/4fedd02e7a5b5574d47ed6b107682c89.jpg 1375w","srcWebp":"/static/74ced02199ff72b72a631259068c5abb/58556/4fedd02e7a5b5574d47ed6b107682c89.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/74ced02199ff72b72a631259068c5abb/61e93/4fedd02e7a5b5574d47ed6b107682c89.webp 200w,\n/static/74ced02199ff72b72a631259068c5abb/1f5c5/4fedd02e7a5b5574d47ed6b107682c89.webp 400w,\n/static/74ced02199ff72b72a631259068c5abb/58556/4fedd02e7a5b5574d47ed6b107682c89.webp 800w,\n/static/74ced02199ff72b72a631259068c5abb/99238/4fedd02e7a5b5574d47ed6b107682c89.webp 1200w,\n/static/74ced02199ff72b72a631259068c5abb/b5697/4fedd02e7a5b5574d47ed6b107682c89.webp 1375w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2413-markdown","title":"Marijuana and Shingles","slug":"marijuana-and-shingles","content":"### What Is Shingles?\n\nShingles is a viral infection caused by the same virus as chickenpox, varicella-zoster. Shingles is a remnant from this virus that lays dormant in the body and reactivates later in life. It causes a painful rash that usually appears on the torso, sometimes progressing into blisters and boils. Shingles can be extremely painful and causes a variety of sensations from burning to tingling to numbness. It also causes other symptoms like sensitivity, fever, headache, and fatigue. Long term pain can also persist, even after the rash has cleared from the body. \n\nShingles attacks the nerve cells, making it extremely hard to get relief from pain. Shingles can also block certain receptors that usually allow people to get relief from medications like non-steroidal anti-inflammatories and opioids. Due to the inability for the receptors to be properly targeted by these medications, doses prescribed for people with shingles are often higher. High doses of pain relieving products like opioids can cause addiction and dependence, often doing more harm than good. \n\n### Cannabis Provides Relief\n\nEndocannabinoid receptors are found all over the body, so they are not blocked in the same way as other receptors, allowing for cannabis to provide pain relief in a way other products cannot. Cannabis also has neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties that can greatly reduce the pain and long-term effects caused by shingles. [A 2011 study](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3055736/) published in the journal _Neuropsychopharmacology_ found that cannabis had multifaceted nuero-protective effects. The study, which used animal models, found that this quality of cannabis was caused by the activation of CB1 receptors that helped prevent damage to nerves. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\nCannabis is known for its effective analgesic qualities, especially in relation to neuropathic pain, which is the kind of pain most often caused by shingles. Neuropathic pain, which often doesn’t react to traditional pain relieving pharmaceuticals, can be greatly aided by THC, according to a [2009 study](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/?term=shingles+and+cannabinoids) from _Neurotherapeutics_. A [2015 study](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25635955) from the _Journal of Oral and Facial Pain and Headache_ also showed that cannabinoids were effective at relieving neuropathic pain that did not respond to other treatments. The study was a review of various randomized placebo-controlled studies conducted starting in the 1950s, which all added support to the conclusion made by the review. The review also noted an overall improvement of sleep, nausea, anxiety, and appetite by patients who consumed cannabis in the studies. \n\n### Topicals: A Great Option\n\nTopical cannabis products are a great choice for people with shingles. Shingles pain is often located in specific areas, making it a great option for being targeted by topical cannabis medications. Cannabis topicals can come in the form of salves, creams, balms, or oils and they are absorbed through the skin. The topical products bond to CB2 receptors when they are absorbed into the skin and provide localized pain relief. There are many topicals on the market today, some favorites in California are Sweet ReLeaf, Flower Power and Xternal. \n\nTHC-infused topicals provide pain relieving properties without being psychoactive because they are not absorbed into the blood stream. CBD infused topical products can also provide people with anti-inflammatory medication to help decrease inflammation that causes pain and physical rashes on the body. Medical cannabis, no matter the form, is a great choice to help people with shingles find relief from their pain and suffering. \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 100% online, private and efficient.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/855c81f388f55cc3f8e3731ec5eb044e/14b42/aee4e6932b7fa9dd37638721595527c7.jpg","srcSet":"/static/855c81f388f55cc3f8e3731ec5eb044e/f836f/aee4e6932b7fa9dd37638721595527c7.jpg 200w,\n/static/855c81f388f55cc3f8e3731ec5eb044e/2244e/aee4e6932b7fa9dd37638721595527c7.jpg 400w,\n/static/855c81f388f55cc3f8e3731ec5eb044e/14b42/aee4e6932b7fa9dd37638721595527c7.jpg 800w,\n/static/855c81f388f55cc3f8e3731ec5eb044e/47498/aee4e6932b7fa9dd37638721595527c7.jpg 1200w,\n/static/855c81f388f55cc3f8e3731ec5eb044e/54ac5/aee4e6932b7fa9dd37638721595527c7.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/855c81f388f55cc3f8e3731ec5eb044e/58556/aee4e6932b7fa9dd37638721595527c7.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/855c81f388f55cc3f8e3731ec5eb044e/61e93/aee4e6932b7fa9dd37638721595527c7.webp 200w,\n/static/855c81f388f55cc3f8e3731ec5eb044e/1f5c5/aee4e6932b7fa9dd37638721595527c7.webp 400w,\n/static/855c81f388f55cc3f8e3731ec5eb044e/58556/aee4e6932b7fa9dd37638721595527c7.webp 800w,\n/static/855c81f388f55cc3f8e3731ec5eb044e/99238/aee4e6932b7fa9dd37638721595527c7.webp 1200w,\n/static/855c81f388f55cc3f8e3731ec5eb044e/5e0b8/aee4e6932b7fa9dd37638721595527c7.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2352-markdown","title":"Marijuana, Pain & PTSD: Christopher's Success Story","slug":"marijuana-pain-and-ptsd-christophers-success-story","content":"### Cannabis Success Stories\n\nAfter serving thousands of patients at HelloMD we have seen a pattern emerge: cannabis helps real people with real conditions. People from all walks of life are turning to cannabis in lieu of opioids, other medications or alternative therapies because they are feeling the results and relief, with little to no side effects. \n\nWe thought it would be useful to talk to patients one on one about their medical conditions and ask them to tell their story so we can share it with you. What began as a simple survey has evolved into a revolving door of patients ecstatically conveying the message that cannabis is working for them; and they want to share their success story with others.\n\n### Christopher's Experience with Cannabis\n\n[![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/583f90529aabd9000b57662f/embedded_images/5845a3abeb3b73000809cc1c/Christopher.png)](\nhttps://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/hellomd-news/patient-success/Patient+Case+Study_Christopher_ChronicPain_final.pdf)\n\n### Chronic Pain History\n\nI’m an ex-Marine and an Iraq war veteran. While on active duty I sustained multiple injuries including a broken leg and arm. After returning from the war, I broke my jaw on the bottom of a pool. In addition, I suffer from PTSD. The result of all of this was consistent chronic pain and PTSD-related issues including paranoia, hyper vigilance and aggression.\n\n### Previous Treatments\n\nPrior to trying cannabis I was in consistent pain. The PTSD and pain made it hard for me to sleep so I started to take sleeping pills which made me groggy and irritable. My personal issues and chronic pain made it hard for me to connect with people. I did not want to take narcotics so I relied heavily on excessive drinking and OTC drugs. Like many Marines, drinking became my go-to which did not improve my situation.\n\nRELATED: [MARIJUANA & MIGRAINES: SALLY'S SUCCESS STORY](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5834944a14533400080243bc/marijuana-and-migraines-sallys-success-story)\n\n### Cannabis Experience\nThree years ago I was interacting with a lot of marijuana companies as a part of my job. After talking to some people, it was suggested that I try CBD. I researched the effects of CBD and it seemed like a great option for me. I purchased a 2:1 CBD product.\n\nThe first time I took it, it was a little psychoactive but I also noticed that the pain melted away. Taking it daily, I started to notice that not only did I not feel pain from my injuries but that I began to have a much more pleasant demeanor. I started to feel connected to people again and was noticeably less aggressive and paranoid.\n\nAfter taking CBD, it was a natural progression to consider how else cannabis might help me. I was still on sleeping pills but they made me feel awful. I started to smoke an indica at night , got off the pills and now I sleep through the night.\n\n### The Cannabis Tool Kit\n\n### Sublingual \n\nI use Bhang’s CBD spray every morning. I spray it into my mouth 4\nto 5 times. I think it’s important to know that CBD can take some\ntime to build up in your system so you feel the full effect.\n\n### Flower\n\nAt night I smoke an indica strain called Snow Lotus. I smoke it from\na pipe about 1 hour ahead of bedtime and I find that I now sleep\nthrough the night and feel refreshed in the morning.\n\n### Christopher Says...\n\n\"My biggest misstep was taking so long to try cannabis. I work with Weed for Warriors who help other vets get off of narcotics for mental wellbeing. It is truly a miracle drug, it has increased my satisfaction & enjoyment of life.\"\n_______________________________________________________________________\n\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/33e31e39b509c8c1667de8feec0ec823/14b42/ee0b6f75e5da26f7d960be9cd37b3ca6.jpg","srcSet":"/static/33e31e39b509c8c1667de8feec0ec823/f836f/ee0b6f75e5da26f7d960be9cd37b3ca6.jpg 200w,\n/static/33e31e39b509c8c1667de8feec0ec823/2244e/ee0b6f75e5da26f7d960be9cd37b3ca6.jpg 400w,\n/static/33e31e39b509c8c1667de8feec0ec823/14b42/ee0b6f75e5da26f7d960be9cd37b3ca6.jpg 800w,\n/static/33e31e39b509c8c1667de8feec0ec823/47498/ee0b6f75e5da26f7d960be9cd37b3ca6.jpg 1200w,\n/static/33e31e39b509c8c1667de8feec0ec823/54ac5/ee0b6f75e5da26f7d960be9cd37b3ca6.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/33e31e39b509c8c1667de8feec0ec823/58556/ee0b6f75e5da26f7d960be9cd37b3ca6.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/33e31e39b509c8c1667de8feec0ec823/61e93/ee0b6f75e5da26f7d960be9cd37b3ca6.webp 200w,\n/static/33e31e39b509c8c1667de8feec0ec823/1f5c5/ee0b6f75e5da26f7d960be9cd37b3ca6.webp 400w,\n/static/33e31e39b509c8c1667de8feec0ec823/58556/ee0b6f75e5da26f7d960be9cd37b3ca6.webp 800w,\n/static/33e31e39b509c8c1667de8feec0ec823/99238/ee0b6f75e5da26f7d960be9cd37b3ca6.webp 1200w,\n/static/33e31e39b509c8c1667de8feec0ec823/5e0b8/ee0b6f75e5da26f7d960be9cd37b3ca6.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2030-markdown","title":"Marijuana & Migraines: Sally's Success Story","slug":"marijuana-and-migraines-sallys-success-story","content":"### Cannabis Success Stories\n\nAfter serving thousands of patients at HelloMD we have seen a pattern emerge: cannabis helps real people with real conditions. People from all walks of life are turning to cannabis in lieu of opioids, other medications or alternative therapies because they are feeling the results and relief, with little to no side effects. \n\nWe thought it would be useful to talk to patients one on one about their medical conditions and ask them to tell their story so we can share it with you. What began as a simple survey has evolved into a revolving door of patients ecstatically conveying the message that cannabis is working for them; and they want to share their success story with others.\n\nWe hope that you enjoy what will be an ongoing series of patient case studies that include a variety of cannabis experiences. We also know there is no one size solution with cannabis, everyone reacts differently and each experience and success may be unique to that person. Our case studies will always follow the same format: A history of the patient's condition, the previous treatment, the experience with cannabis, and specifically how they use cannabis for their condition in order to find relief. \n\n### Sally's Experience With Cannabis\n\n[![Sally's cannabis success story](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/5834944a14533400080243bc/embedded_images/583494ede9a2d00008ed639c/Sallymigraine.png)](https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/hellomd-news/patient-success/Marijuana+%26+Migraines%3A+Sally%27s+Success+Story.pdf)\n[_Download the PDF_](https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/hellomd-news/patient-success/Marijuana+%26+Migraines%3A+Sally%27s+Success+Story.pdf)\n\n### Chronic Pain History\n\nMy migraines are stress induced. When I get stressed. I can feel my back and shoulders tense up and when I feel my jaw tense, I know a migraine is about to hit.  I can feel it moving up my neck and I know I am in trouble. The worst ones last for 6 to 7 days.\n\n### Previous Treatments\n\nPrior to trying cannabis the Doctor prescribed Tramadol and it made me tired and nauseous. They gave me a prescription for something to treat nausea caused by Tramadol.  The two prescriptions left me feeling either nauseous or tired. I was not functional.\n\n### Cannabis Experience\n\nI heard cannabis was more natural so I thought I would try it. Cannabis helps me with the symptoms of my migraines.  My migraines  are very debilitating; cannabis takes the pain away. I’m not able to look at any light, like a computer screen or go out into the sunshine. Cannabis alleviates the pain enough so I can work, be on the computer and talk with customers. It is amazing for me because it got me off of the pills and works better. with no side effects I have not tried to prevent my migraines but CBD has made me curious about the preventative use of marijuana.\n\n### The Cannabis Tool Kit\n\n### Flower\n\nInitially, I started by smoking flower.  This worked OK but was not that convenient and I found I smelled like marijuana and this was not OK if I was going to go to work. It is also not as  discreet.\n\n### Vape Pen\n\nI moved on to a 1:1 ratio vape pen which I used when I felt a migraine coming on. If a migraine is full blown I will  use my vape pen immediately. Recently, I found a high 3:1 CBD oil cartridge called Electra-Tsu by Bloom Farms. If I vape this immediately, I will not have a migraine anymore. It's an amazing product.\n\n### Edible\n\nI take 25 mg THC lozenges  2-3 times a day and remain functional while they completely take the pain away. I am able to work, look at the computer and interact with customers without being irritable.\n\n### Sally Says...\n\n\"I always suggest to people that they try cannabis to help with their migraines.... Basically cannabis is natural so why take a pill that will give you a lot of side effects? With cannabis I am functional again.\"\n_______________________________________________________________________\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 100% online, private and efficient.\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/bd5ea2fa058e4b51429fa6f144d9d9b2/14b42/1175c9899dd60c1dc51791743496b699.jpg","srcSet":"/static/bd5ea2fa058e4b51429fa6f144d9d9b2/f836f/1175c9899dd60c1dc51791743496b699.jpg 200w,\n/static/bd5ea2fa058e4b51429fa6f144d9d9b2/2244e/1175c9899dd60c1dc51791743496b699.jpg 400w,\n/static/bd5ea2fa058e4b51429fa6f144d9d9b2/14b42/1175c9899dd60c1dc51791743496b699.jpg 800w,\n/static/bd5ea2fa058e4b51429fa6f144d9d9b2/47498/1175c9899dd60c1dc51791743496b699.jpg 1200w,\n/static/bd5ea2fa058e4b51429fa6f144d9d9b2/54ac5/1175c9899dd60c1dc51791743496b699.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/bd5ea2fa058e4b51429fa6f144d9d9b2/58556/1175c9899dd60c1dc51791743496b699.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/bd5ea2fa058e4b51429fa6f144d9d9b2/61e93/1175c9899dd60c1dc51791743496b699.webp 200w,\n/static/bd5ea2fa058e4b51429fa6f144d9d9b2/1f5c5/1175c9899dd60c1dc51791743496b699.webp 400w,\n/static/bd5ea2fa058e4b51429fa6f144d9d9b2/58556/1175c9899dd60c1dc51791743496b699.webp 800w,\n/static/bd5ea2fa058e4b51429fa6f144d9d9b2/99238/1175c9899dd60c1dc51791743496b699.webp 1200w,\n/static/bd5ea2fa058e4b51429fa6f144d9d9b2/5e0b8/1175c9899dd60c1dc51791743496b699.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2161-markdown","title":"How to Stop Migraines","slug":"how-to-stop-migraines","content":"### Suffering with Migraines \n \nMy migraines started when I was 14 and I only gained control over them when I turned 40. The first migraine I had in my teens hit me like a lightning bolt, and I fell to the ground on my knees holding my head and it didn’t stop until I passed out and woke up 24 hours later. From that time on I would experience migraines frequently and they would come in clusters. Often I would be vomiting, see an aura and spend days in bed. \n\nVisiting with doctors, they never really had an answer but they would hand me a prescription. After multiple medications that did not work, and all which had intense side effects, plus visits to alternative practitioners, I assumed this was something that I needed to live with. And I did, for the next 20+ years. As time wore on my migraines settled into a monthly pattern. But after the birth of my 3rd child, they suddenly became much, much worse.\n\n### Opioids - A Long Term Solution? \n\nTrying to raise three kids all under the age of 4 and working full time, I did not have time for migraines. So, at the onset of a migraine I would pop a Vicodin and maybe another. The Vicodin helped to keep the pain at bay, as I needed to function and could not afford to spend hours, much less days in bed. Even at the time, I knew this needed to be a short term strategy, addiction was too easy a trap.\n\nFinally, a friend insisted that I consider cannabis as a solution. Honestly, I had nothing to lose, but I thought my chances of success were zero to none. I also did not consider myself a stoner.\n\n### Marijuana Stopped My Migraines \n\nMarijuana stopped my migraines. After 20+ years, I do not experience frequent migraines anymore. It did not happen right away but today I live relatively pain free, and free of narcotics. How did I do it? It’s a two step process. The first step is preventative, which cannot be over emphasized. The second step is preventing pain if a migraine/headache does sneak through. \n\nThe preventative steps are relatively simple. I take 10 mg of 20:1 CBD to THC Rosette Wellnesstincture in the morning. I have found this ratio to be the most effective. Later in the day I take Moxie Meds 4:1 tincture, also at a 10 mg dosage.\n \nIt is important to note that high ratio CBD products do not make you high and although I ingest cannabis throughout the day, I am never high when taking these preventative measures. Also, CBD is not a silver bullet that takes effect in a day or two. I have found that the effects are cumulative and it took a 2-3 months of daily dosing before the longer lasting impact was felt.\n\nIn addition to cannabis, I also take [Vitamin B and Magnesium](http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/condition/migraine-headache) which research has found to reduce migraines in patients who take these supplements regularly. I make sure to exercise regularly, typically hiking 3x a week and yoga 3x a week. Lastly, I eliminated gluten, soy and wine from my diet, which personally helped me, but may not be necessary for others.\n\nToday, I am almost 100% migraine free. What does happen is what I call a ‘shadow headache’. When I feel the shadow descending, which is usually the result of a stressful event, I reach for my vape pen. As I do not do well with high THC, my oil cartridges are always high CBD and low THC. \n\nCBD is known to be an analgesic as well as an anti inflammatory. My favorite oil cartridge is Bloom Farms Electra Tsu 3:1 oil cartridge. LOVE…I even wrote them a haiku, my highest form of praise and adoration.\n\n### Preventing Migraines\n\nMigraine prevention is a possible. What triggers a migraine is individual, but the solutions mentioned above could  prevent yours. I am always surprised by the amount of acceptance I hear from migraine sufferers, where all the attention is paid to pain management rather than migraine prevention. Why not try to stop them before they begin? As a result of my preventative efforts my life has changed significantly, for the better. I hope perhaps my solution helps you or someone you know.\n\nDo you have a migraine solution? We would love to hear it, please share in the comments below!\n\n_____________________________________________________________________\n\nIf you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://hellomd.com/articles/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.\n\n\n\n\n\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/16e399833b5fe35e79cedd2773983a71/14b42/2697b909e48cfac58b843361457b8027.jpg","srcSet":"/static/16e399833b5fe35e79cedd2773983a71/f836f/2697b909e48cfac58b843361457b8027.jpg 200w,\n/static/16e399833b5fe35e79cedd2773983a71/2244e/2697b909e48cfac58b843361457b8027.jpg 400w,\n/static/16e399833b5fe35e79cedd2773983a71/14b42/2697b909e48cfac58b843361457b8027.jpg 800w,\n/static/16e399833b5fe35e79cedd2773983a71/47498/2697b909e48cfac58b843361457b8027.jpg 1200w,\n/static/16e399833b5fe35e79cedd2773983a71/c28ba/2697b909e48cfac58b843361457b8027.jpg 1420w","srcWebp":"/static/16e399833b5fe35e79cedd2773983a71/58556/2697b909e48cfac58b843361457b8027.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/16e399833b5fe35e79cedd2773983a71/61e93/2697b909e48cfac58b843361457b8027.webp 200w,\n/static/16e399833b5fe35e79cedd2773983a71/1f5c5/2697b909e48cfac58b843361457b8027.webp 400w,\n/static/16e399833b5fe35e79cedd2773983a71/58556/2697b909e48cfac58b843361457b8027.webp 800w,\n/static/16e399833b5fe35e79cedd2773983a71/99238/2697b909e48cfac58b843361457b8027.webp 1200w,\n/static/16e399833b5fe35e79cedd2773983a71/7a95f/2697b909e48cfac58b843361457b8027.webp 1420w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2069-markdown","title":"Cannabis Soothes Arthritis Pain","slug":"cannabis-soothes-arthritis-pain","content":"DiDi Davis is founder of Sweet ReLeaf, a topical cannabis manufacturer located in California. Sweet ReLeaf has created one of the most effective and enjoyable topicals on the market today.\n\nAs Didi says, \"We believe in the healing power of plants, specifically how the human endocannabinoid system communicates with the compounds found in cannabis. We like to call it intelligent medicine.”\n\nIn this piece, Didi talks about how cannabis topicals can help ease the pain and swelling caused by arthritis.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Medical Cannabis Helps Arthritis Patients Recover & Heal\n\nAccording to the Centers for Disease Control, nearly 50% of people over the age of 65 in the U.S. will be diagnosed with [arthritis](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5aecf518b869a6000796590b/treating-arthritis-pain-via-the-endocannabinoid-system). Although arthritic pain is also diagnosed in hundreds of thousands of children under the age of 18, most arthritis patients are retirement age or older. \n\nArthritis commonly affects the hands and feet, with the exception of osteoarthritic pain, which causes hip pain and stiffness. The term arthritis refers to more than 100 joint conditions that cause stiffness, mild to severe pain, swelling and sometimes deformity. There’s no cure for arthritis (except gout).\n\nHowever, breakthrough studies have linked cannabis as a contender for even the most powerful prescription drugs. Medical marijuana has an advantage that painkillers don’t have: It works with the patient's body to help them recover instead of just masking the symptoms of arthritis.\n\n### The Many Types of Arthritis\n\nDespite the daunting number of arthritis forms, they can be categorized by one of the following types:\n\n* Inflammatory arthritis\n* Degenerative of mechanical arthritis\n* Soft-tissue musculoskeletal pain\n* Back pain\n* Connective tissue disease\n* Infectious arthritis\n* Metabolic arthritis\n\nArthritis in its various forms affects patients in different ways and carries with it different symptoms. This means that there’s no one way to treat it. \n\nRELATED: [TREATING ARTHRITIS PAIN VIA THE ENDOCANNABINOID SYSTEM](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5aecf518b869a6000796590b/treating-arthritis-pain-via-the-endocannabinoid-system)\n\n### Traditional Arthritis Pain Management Medications\n\nPrescription drugs are the most common treatment for arthritis pain management. These prescription treatments can help reduce pain and treat symptoms such as swelling, stiffness and tenderness. Various types of medications are administered depending on what type of arthritis a person is dealing with.\n\n#### Prednisone\n\nPrednisone is an oral steroid prescribed to reduce inflammation in arthritis patients. Side effects include nausea, vomiting, headache, restlessness and weight gain. It’s most commonly prescribed as a short-term therapy due to the severity of its side effects.\n\n#### Acetaminophen & Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs\n\nAcetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are common over-the-counter medications prescribed to relieve pain. Acetaminophen, though effective in treating arthritic pain, doesn’t address the accompanying inflammation. NSAIDs, though used to treat pain and inflammation, are processed through the liver; therefore, continued use can cause serious damage to this organ.\n\n#### Disease-Modifying Anti-Rheumatic Drugs\n\nDisease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are often used by patients with rheumatoid arthritis. This medication essentially slows the progression of the disease by acting on the immune system. Side effects include upset stomach, bone marrow and liver damage, and shortness of breath. \n\n### Alternative Pain Management Options for Arthritis\n\nFor patients who seek alternative treatments for their arthritis, there are a few options that have proven to be effective, especially when accompanied by overall lifestyle changes. Exploring alternative treatments can help a patient live a normal life and even enjoy an active one.\n\n**Acupuncture** is an ancient Chinese method of healing. Practitioners use extremely tiny needles to trigger points in the body that release endorphins where it’s needed the most. \n\n**Hot and cold therapies** provide temporary relief from the burning sensations and stiffness that come with arthritis. Cold compresses, soaking in a hot shower or using hot paraffin wax can ease pain and/or swelling and increase blood circulation. \n\nOther alternative therapies include:\n\n* Yoga\n* Meditation\n* Electrotherapy\n* Nutritional supplements such as turmeric or fish oil, which are natural anti-inflammatories\n\n### Study Shows Cannabis Reduces Arthritis Pain\n\nMedical marijuana has the ability to treat the entire body without debilitating side effects—and often without any side effects at all. Cannabis is a known analgesic, with powerful pain-reducing components that rival prescription drugs and over-the-counter medications.\n\nA study funded by Arthritis Research UK that’s specifically meant to identify how cannabis works in arthritis patients has begun to make a clear connection between marijuana and pain. In this study, scientists examined nerve cells called CB2 receptors and found that activating specific marijuana pathways produced an anti-inflammatory effect. This is a groundbreaking clinical discovery, since inflammation is a major hindrance for patients with arthritic pain. These patients often rely on harmful prescription drugs for relief.\n\nRELATED: [3 POPULAR QUESTIONS ABOUT MARIJUANA & ARTHRITIS ANSWERED](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a720780f24d1300077ccb25/3-popular-questions-about-marijuana-and-arthritis-answered)\n\n### Cannabis Topicals Can Help Alleviate Arthritis Symptoms\n\nCannabis topicals provide a unique solution for patients with arthritis, mainly because their side effects are nonexistent. With proper and regular use, cannabis topicals can:\n\n* relieve arthritis pain almost immediately\n* reduce inflammation that accompanies arthritic joints\n* gradually restore mobility in arthritis patients who’ve been forced to live a stationary life \n\nCannabis topicals don’t travel through the bloodstream, as is the case with ingestion and inhalation. Therefore, marijuana-infused topicals don’t produce a euphoric high. Patients who use cannabis topicals can essentially apply their product to the desired area and return to their activities without interruption. Whether they operate heavy machinery, work in a corporate environment or care for children during the day, folks with arthritis find cannabis topicals can often be a life-changing therapy with none of the psychoactivity that comes with consuming cannabis, specifically tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).\n\n### Arthritis Patients Can Start by Consulting With a Cannabis Doctor\n\nThe best thing to do is to speak to a health-care professional who understands how cannabis works with the body. A great place to start would be by requesting a consultation with a doctor on HelloMD. Ask any questions you have concerning products to try, how to take them and how they may affect your life. If you’re recommended to receive medical marijuana, you can order a product from Sweet ReLeaf to reduce your arthritic pain and inflammation.\n\nThe best advice for anyone living with arthritis pain is to explore all possible options before resorting to the prescription drug path. Cannabis provides a treatment option that works with your body to heal. This can mean the difference between taking one medication after another to combat pain and medication side effects, and living a life unencumbered by joint pain.\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/56201c206430320006bb0000/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.   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