Any injury to the head is dangerous for the possibility that it could harm the brain. However, there are some sports like football and boxing, which may cause players to suffer not only one, but multiple blows to the head. While they are protected with a helmet, the repeated hits can still lead to Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE).
This condition may or may not start out intensively but progresses over time to cause more damage. The symptoms can be pretty severe too, often comparable to diseases like Alzheimer’s. They may even lead to the onset of dementia in the patient.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for CTE, or even a certified test to diagnose it. Only patients that have died from the disease can be operated on to find the reason. Furthermore, it does not have a treatment, so athletes are advised to be careful in contact sports.
However, there has been a recent ray of hope for CTE patients, and cannabis is being studied as a treatment for the degenerative disease.
Let’s learn more about this topic in detail.
Can Cannabis Help CTE Patients?
There is no diagnosis for CTE, and as a result, we do not know how apparent it is. However, it can be said that the condition is quite frequent in sportspersons. This is why it is very important to study medical marijuana as a cure, for it might be very beneficial. So far, studies have found that:
- The cannabis plant contains hundreds of cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD. They are neuroprotective in patients with brain damage. Meaning that they have the ability to counteract glutamate excitotoxicity, which leads to the death of neurons in the brain, progressing the symptoms.
- Cannabis is known to treat many symptoms of CTE, such as:
- Paranoia
- Dementia
- Confusion
- Aggression
- Mood swings
- Impaired judgement
- Anxiety and depression
- Short term memory loss
- Having trouble with controlling impulses
The reason behind this being that the human endocannabinoid system (ECS) is responsible for regulating a lot of functions, such as mood, memory, pain, pleasure, etc. ECS contains cannabinoids, similar to the ones found in THC.
So, when consumed, THC binds with the receptors CB1 and CBD present in the ECS. As a result, it regulates all the functions of the system, providing relief from many medical issues.
However, a quick look at the aforementioned symptoms can tell you that they can be found in a lot of conditions. So, how will you or a loved one know whether you have the condition, if it cannot be diagnosed?
When to Seek Medical Attention for CTE?
It is thought that CTE develops after years of repeated injuries to the brain, no matter their intensity. If you have been involved in contact sports then your probability of having the condition is already much higher. In addition to that, if you experience any of the following symptoms, it is best to see a doctor.
Memory Problems
Issues with remembering things, find yourself forgetting things often, cannot think rationally, or are experiencing change in behavior.
Head Injury
Even if you don’t require medical care, it is very dangerous to leave a head injury unchecked. In such a situation, you should always get a medical opinion to ensure that you haven’t received brain damage. Depending on your condition or symptoms, the doctor may prescribe some tests.
However, if you have already gone to the doctor, and speculate that you have CTE, turning to cannabis is a completely viable option. Moreover, Ohio is the only state where you can get an MMJ card with CTE as a qualifying condition.
MD Ganja makes it easier for you to get a medical card from the comfort of your home. Approvals are quick, allowing you to administer cannabis as soon as possible. Moreover, you get to seek medical advice from experienced 420 doctors, so you can clear any doubts.
Suicidal Thoughts
Some research has shown that people with CTE could be at an increased risk of developing suicidal tendencies. If you have such thoughts, along with other symptoms, see a doctor immediately. You can also reach out to a therapist in case of depression.
Conclusion
Cannabis can help with the symptoms of CTE, but since this is a complicated disease, do not self-medicate. Always seek medical attention in case of a sensitive condition, like this one.
