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This article examines the safety and potential benefits of consuming cannabis after a stroke, focusing on the risks and advantages.
According to a recent report from the CDC, over 795,000 Americans experience a stroke each year, with 600,000 being first-time cases and 185,000 recurrent. Many stroke survivors wonder: Could marijuana or THC-infused edibles aid recovery? Might cannabinoids help alleviate post-stroke symptoms like spasticity, mobility issues, or mood disturbances?
Research presents mixed findings on cannabis use post-stroke. While some cannabinoids, like CBD, may offer symptom relief, marijuana use, especially with THC, could pose cardiovascular risks, affecting blood vessels and increasing ischemic stroke risk. This article explores the effects of cannabis on stroke recovery and cerebral health.
Table of Contents
What are Cannabis Edibles?
Potential Benefits of Cannabis for Stroke Survivors
The Risks of Consuming Marijuana After a Stroke
Recommendations for Safe Consumption
Conclusion: Can You Take Cannabis After a Stroke?
Edibles infused with CBD and THC can have different effects on the body. CBD is known for its pain-relieving and anxiety-reducing properties, making it relevant for stroke recovery.
On the other hand, THC has potential benefits for appetite stimulation and improved sleep quality for those struggling with sleep disturbances.
In some cases, THC has also been medically approved for pain relief and relieving symptoms of muscle spasticity and spasms, such as those related to Multiple Sclerosis.
Keep in mind that you need a doctor’s recommendation to qualify for a medical marijuana card, but anyone can access cannabis edibles for recreational or therapeutic purposes, especially those made from hemp, which are legal and accessible on a wide scale.
At Vida Optima, we offer a variety of hemp-derived cannabinoid products that are legal nationwide. Our Cloud9 Collection features federally compliant hemp-derived Delta-9-THC, perfect for enhancing your overall wellness experience. Explore our selection today to find the right product for you!
While cannabis show potential for benefiting stroke survivors, we must also explore the possible risks involved.
Edibles containing THC can have strong mind-altering effects, making it essential to start with a low dosage for safety. Finding the right balance is key to enjoying cannabis use without adverse effects.
A 2017 report in the Journal of Thoracic Disease reported that recreational marijuana use raises the risk of hospitalization for ischemic stroke by 17% in adults aged 18-54. Cannabis impacts the cardiovascular system, potentially leading to increased heart rate, arrhythmia, vasospasms, irregular cerebral blood flow, and spikes in blood pressure.
According to the World Health Organization, chronic and current cannabis users face an elevated risk, with strokes most likely to occur during or shortly after use, often linked to overconsumption
If you're taking medications post-stroke, consult your healthcare provider before indulging in edibles. Some medications may interact with cannabinoids, leading to unwanted effects. Safety first, it's like a careful dance between your health and the healing herb.
Safety should be a top priority, and that means no driving after consuming marijuana. The road to recovery should be free of impaired driving, no matter how euphoric the THC makes you feel. It's like taking a detour away from the wheel to a space of safety.
Driving while under the influence is illegal, even when considering legal hemp THC options, like hemp Delta-9-THC or hemp Delta-8-THC edibles.
Cannabinoids, like CBD and THC, may hold promise for easing pain and spasticity in stroke survivors.
A 2021 study on a 61-year-old patient suffering from central post-stroke pain syndrome revealed marked improvements in pain, mood, and overall quality of life after just two days of nabiximols administration. Nabiximols is a cannabis-based medication that combines THC and CBD, primarily used to alleviate symptoms of spasticity in multiple sclerosis
Research suggests that both THC and CBD could have pain-relieving benefits that are useful for post-stroke recovery.
However, it is essential to note that most studies to date are animal experiments rather than human clinical trials, and the results should be taken into consideration with some caution.
A study published in the Neuropharmacology journal in 2007 highlighted the findings and the ability of CBD to be of great use when treating
It found that “cannabidiol is a potent antioxidant agent without developing tolerance to its neuroprotective effect, acting through a CB-1 receptor-independent mechanism.”
In other words, CBD protects injured brains without having to increase the dose over time as needed with other cannabinoids, such as THC.
A 2022 studymirrors similar results “Pretreatment of CBD could ameliorate the stress oxidative in cortex (as center of ischemic damages) and neuronal death in cortex and striatum (as penumbra), which it can be a great achievement.”
In a comprehensive review published in the Journal of Cerebral Blood Flow & Metabolism in 2014, researchers explored the potential of cannabinoids as "promising candidates for future treatment" in stroke recovery. The study focused on administering THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids to animals shortly after an experimental stroke.
The findings shed light on the crucial role of the endocannabinoid system in the body's response to a stroke.
During the administration of cannabinoids, the cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2 became more active, leading to the release of beneficial endocannabinoids.
This activation seemed to play a protective role, shielding nerve cells from damage.
However, it's essential to note that the most significant effects were observed when cannabinoids were administered within 4 to 5 hours after the stroke.
This suggests that cannabinoids might have the potential to mitigate brain damage to some extent, though they may not fully reverse it.
The study highlights the potential of cannabinoids in stroke recovery, paving the way for further research in this exciting field.
Stroke recovery can be a roller coaster of emotions, but CBD might come to the rescue. According to current data, anxiety affects 25% of stroke survivors. Luckily, CBD may be useful for easing anxiety-related discomforts.
In a comprehensive review conducted in 2015, researchers explored how CBD interacts with various receptors in the brain, such as the cannabinoid type 1 receptor (CB1R) and the serotonin 5-HT1A receptor. These receptors play a crucial role in regulating fear and anxiety-induced behaviors.
The review also revealed both preclinical and clinical evidence supporting CBD's effectiveness in treating different types of anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), panic disorder (PD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and social anxiety disorder (SAD).
A 2020 study found similar results.
Here, researchers assessed the effects of CBD on 397 adults in New Zealand who received medical CBD prescriptions for various ailments. The participants reported improvements in their overall quality of life after three weeks of CBD treatment.
Those receiving CBD treatment for anxiety or depression experienced enhanced daily functioning, reduced pain, and alleviated anxiety or depression symptoms.
Furthermore, 70% of the study participants expressed satisfaction with CBD treatment, with only 9.9% experiencing adverse side effects, such as sedation and vivid dreams. A smaller portion of the population (0.8%) reported worsening symptoms.
Losing interest in food can be a tough part of stroke recovery. Loss of smell or taste can stifle the desire to eat, and it’s common for post-stroke patients to push away food and have trouble meeting their daily nutritional and caloric needs.
Cannabis may offer some help. In fact, THC is well-known for its ability to stimulate appetite. It’s sometimes recommended as a treatment for cachexia, nausea, vomiting, and other appetite-affecting issues.
Sleep is essential for healing, and THC might lend a helping hand. Studies suggest that THC could potentially improve sleep quality for those experiencing sleep disturbances after a stroke. It's like entering a realm of peaceful dreams and restorative rest.
In a study evaluating the effects of THC on patients suffering from insomnia and other sleep disorders, 39% of patients were able to reduce or completely discontinue a prescription medication they typically used for sleep. Overall, 71% of people reported an improvement in their sleep or related condition.
Evidence has found that short term use of THC may help to increase total sleep time and reduce sleep latency, or the amount of time it takes to fall asleep. Long term use may have the opposite effect, however, so THC is best used for a period of up to 2 weeks as a sleep-enhancing supplement.
When considering cannabis after a stroke, follow these recommendations to weigh the potential benefits and risks while prioritizing safety:
Speak with your healthcare provider to discuss how THC and CBD might interact with stroke medications and cardiovascular risk factors. Understanding potential impacts on stroke recovery, blood pressure, and cerebral health is crucial.
Begin with a low THC dose and increase gradually if necessary, allowing you to monitor for adverse effects and avoid overconsumption, which may increase the risk of complications like ischemic stroke. Read about how much CBD to take or how much Delta-8 to take to learn more.
Record your experiences with each dosage, noting effects and any symptom changes. Tracking your response to cannabis can provide insights into how marijuana use may influence stroke symptoms like spasticity or mood.
Select high-quality, lab-tested cannabis products from trusted brands. Medical cannabis and
CBD should be sourced from reputable providers to ensure accurate dosing and safety, which is essential for stroke patients seeking therapeutic benefits.
Research indicates that cannabinoids, particularly endocannabinoids, may play a significant role in regulating cerebral blood flow, which could influence stroke risk.
A 2016 review found that endocannabinoids are produced by various brain cells involved in blood flow regulation, suggesting their potential impact during cerebrovascular events like strokes and traumatic brain injuries.
These cannabinoids may help protect the brain by promoting blood flow and exerting anti-inflammatory effects, which could lower stroke risk factors. Some animal studies have shown that cannabinoids can reduce brain damage following ischemic strokes by enhancing blood flow to affected regions.
This may be especially significant for those at increased risk of stroke due to high blood pressure.
However, more clinical research is needed to determine safe and effective use, as well as to better understand the complex interactions between cannabinoids and stroke physiology.
After a stroke, it's important to avoid smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, high-sodium foods, and high-fat diets. These can increase your risk of another stroke. Additionally, avoiding stress and getting regular check-ups with your healthcare provider are crucial for recovery and prevention.
The use of CBD after a stroke is still under research. While some studies suggest that CBD may have neuroprotective effects, it's essential to consult with your healthcare provider before using CBD, as it can interact with medications and may not be suitable for everyone.
Edibles, particularly those containing THC, may affect blood clotting. THC has been shown to have both pro-clotting and anti-clotting effects in different studies. If you are at risk for blood clots or are on blood-thinning medications, it's important to consult with your healthcare provider before consuming edibles.
Edibles containing THC can affect circulation by causing changes in heart rate and blood pressure. These changes can be more pronounced in individuals with cardiovascular issues. It's advisable to discuss with your healthcare provider before using edibles, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.
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