Parkinson’s disease is a disorder in which parts of the brain become progressively more impaired over time. This has a corresponding impact on motor control. Symptoms include stiffness, shaking, reduced balance and coordination, and difficulty talking and walking. It may also cause mental and behavioral changes, including fatigue, depression, and memory lapses. Medical cannabis, in particular tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), for Parkinson’s is believed to be a useful treatment option.
Parkinson’s is caused by a loss of nerve cells in the basal ganglia, a part of the brain responsible for producing dopamine. This chemical acts as a messenger between the brain and the nervous system, helping coordinate body movements. The exact reasons for the loss of nerve cells isn’t known, although it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
Parkinson’s can affect both men and women, although it’s found in about 50% more men than women. Most people tend to develop the disease at 60 years old, although in 5-10% of cases, people have early-onset Parkinson’s before the age of 50.
THC for Parkinson’s is thought to help with some of the neurological symptoms of Parkinson’s. The main signs of Parkinson’s include:
Other symptoms can include difficulty swallowing and chewing and constipation. The condition may also cause sleep disruptions and emotional changes, including depression. This is why medical cannabis, including THC, may be prescribed for Parkinson’s.
Studies have shown that medical cannabis can help alleviate some of the symptoms of Parkinson’s. It is considered to be an effective treatment option for Parkinson’s by many doctors and patients.
Cannabis is believed to be a dopamine agonist, meaning that it attaches to the dopamine receptors in the brain, causing the same effect as the natural chemical does. Low-THC medication for Parkinson’s may help mitigate the effects of the disease. Cannabis is also thought to have possible benefits for anxiety, depression, constipation, and other chronic problems.
With Texas 420 Doctors, you can easily and safely access medical cannabis as an eligible Texan. Book a telemedicine appointment with one of our board-certified, CURT-registered physicians. Get evaluated and receive your approval letter and dispensary recommendations to order medical cannabis from a dispensary. Contact us to learn more about our services and the benefits of treatment options like low-THC cannabis for Parkinson’s.
