MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS

MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS

Many Multiple Sclerosis (MS) patients find relief from their symptoms with medical marijuana. Cannabis may prove to slow the progress of MS by suppressing the activity of immune cells and reducing inflammation, some research shows.

WHAT IS MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS?

A chronic disease of the central nervous system Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is when the immune system incorrectly attacks nerve tissue in the brain and spinal cord. This results in blurred vision, slurred speech, tremors, paralysis, and spasticity (a condition causing muscles to continuously contract).

Scientists believe this may be caused by a combination of environmental factors and genetic predispositions, but are puzzled as to what causes the immune cells to attack the central nervous system.

There are more than 2.3 million people worldwide who suffer from MS, according to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS SYMPTOMS

The way that MS affects each patient can vary widely. Some patients may experience one or two symptoms, while others may suffer from a variety and range of symptoms.

Common symptoms include:

• Bladder dysfunction
• Changes in the ability to learn, process information, solve problems, focus, and     understand surroundings
• Blurred vision, poor contrast or color vision, and painful eye movement
• Constipation
• Difficulty walking
• Depression
• Dizziness and vertigo
• Fatigue
• Sexual problems
• Numbness or tingling in the face, body, or extremities
• Pain
• Spasticity, feelings of stiffness, and involuntary muscle spasms

HOW MEDICAL MARIJUANA HELPS MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS PATIENTS

Medical marijuana helps manage a wide range of symptoms caused by MS, such as reducing the frequency and severity of muscle spasms and ease stiffness. Patients also find more freedom of movement, less frequent urge to urinate, and better sleep.

Medical cannabis can also help to relieve pain and inflammation by working as an analgesic.

Medical marijuana’s use in treating MS was publicized by the American Academy of Neurology, saying:

“Strong evidence shows that oral cannabis extract lessens patients’ reported symptoms of spasticity. It also lessens the pain caused by spasticity.”

Supporting this claim, the National Multiple Sclerosis Society admits:

“The Society supports advancing research to better understand the benefits and potential risks of marijuana and its derivatives as a treatment for MS.”