Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a relatively common condition that affects between 25-45 million individuals in the United States. IBS is a disorder that impacts the large intestine, causing mild to severe stomach pain. Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for IBS. However, research indicates that medical marijuana may help individuals with IBS find lasting relief from their uncomfortable symptoms.
What is IBS?
Irritable bowel syndrome, most commonly referred to as IBS, is a chronic digestive-related disorder that causes a host of symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, bloating, constipation, and cramping. There are currently no known cures for IBS. Treatments are aimed at symptom relief with lifestyle changes and medications.
While some symptoms of IBS might go away on their own, there are several that can get worse over time, which can severely affect an individual’s quality of life.
Medical Marijuana for IBS Treatment
The exact cause of IBS is not completely understood, making it difficult to treat the root cause of the disorder. In some cases, genetics, an intestinal infection or chronic stress may be to blame. Fortunately, there are many treatment options available to individuals living with IBS, including medical marijuana.
Luckily, medical marijuana has been found to be effective in treating the symptoms of IBS. Medical marijuana contains THC and CBD, which both work together to relieve the pain and other symptoms associated with IBS. The best part about using medical marijuana is that it doesn’t have any serious side effects like other medications for IBS may.
Marijuana and the Gastrointestinal System
There are over 100 cannabinoids naturally occurring in the cannabis plant that interact with receptors throughout your body to promote balance. The cannabinoid, THC, found within medical marijuana interacts with CB-1 and CB-2 receptors. These particular types of cannabinoid receptors are found in the central nervous system and gastrointestinal system, among other places throughout the body. For those who have IBS, this means that the interaction of these two cannabinoids may help alleviate symptoms, such as pain, stomach cramps, bloating and nausea.
According to one study, researchers found that cannabis use may decrease healthcare utilization and costs among hospitalized patients with IBS. The findings in the study are “likely attributable to the effects of cannabis’ active compound, THC, on gastrointestinal motility and colonic compliance.”
Contact a Florida Medical Marijuana Doctor
Medical marijuana has shown potential benefits in treating IBS and other gastrointestinal disorders, providing some relief to many of the symptoms and allowing patients to retain a high quality of life.
At MMTCFL, our Florida medical marijuana doctors can determine if you are eligible for medical marijuana and help you get your medical marijuana registration card. Get started with medical marijuana today by taking our online eligibility survey.
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