Multiple Sclerosis, or MS, is a chronic autoimmune illness that affects the neurological system (brain, spinal cord, optic nerves). In persons with multiple sclerosis, the immune system attacks the neurological system, resulting in thick scar tissue known as sclerosis. MS symptoms include pain, limited mobility, vision loss, and full paralysis as the condition progresses. Fortunately, CBD for multiple sclerosis has been studied and that research is paving the way for new, natural treatments.
Why Multiple Sclerosis Happens
The cause of multiple sclerosis is unknown. MS is classified as an autoimmune illness because it causes the body to damage its own tissues. The immune system attacks the fatty substance known as myelin, which coats and protects nerve fibers.
To provide a visual analogy, think of myelin as the insulating layer on electrical wires. When the outer layer is broken or torn off, the electric wire (nerve fiber) is left exposed, preventing interaction from that region.
Scientists are also trying to figure out why MS is visible in some people but not in others. Risk factors, on the other hand, have been evaluated, including:
- At any age, multiple sclerosis may occur, but it is most frequently diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 40 years.
- Women are two to three times more likely than men to have been diagnosed with MS.
- You are at a greater risk than others of having the disease at any stage in life if a parent or sibling is diagnosed with MS.
- MS has been associated with Epstein-Barr, the virus that causes mononucleosis.
- Caucasian Americans, particularly those of Northern European descent, are more likely to be diagnosed with MS. The lowest chance of developing MS is in Asian, African, and Native Americans.
- Low Vitamin D levels and low sunlight exposure raise the risk of developing MS.
You are at greater risk if you have already been diagnosed with some form of autoimmune disorder, such as:
- Thyroid disease
- Pernicious anemia
- Type 1 diabetes
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Psoriasis
Smokers also have a greater risk of developing MS than non-smokers.
Stages and Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis
Multiple sclerosis is divided into two stages: inflammatory and neurodegeneration.
The majority of the time, MS manifests as a relapsing-remitting illness. New symptoms appear in cycles, which are frequently followed by a partial or complete change. There are times when the condition is completely silent, and other times when the disorder becomes more severe. Continuous symptoms usually appear 10 to 20 years after the onset of MS.
The signs of MS can include:
- Numbness in one or more limbs
- Weakness: This happens on one side of the body at a time, usually.
- Tremors
- Loss of balance
- Inability to walk properly.
Vision problems are also common. Vision loss can be partial or full, and it normally happens in one eye at a time. Double vision, slurred speech, exhaustion, dizziness, and issues with bowel and bladder function can all be present for long periods of time.
Western Medicine
There are three popular treatment-associated prescription drugs:
- Baclofen is offered as a muscle relaxant to decrease spasticity in the muscles.
- To relieve the discomfort, opioids of some kind are prescribed.
- For urinary incontinence patients, darifenacin is recommended.
CBD for Multiple Sclerosis
Cannabinoids have recently been recognized as a viable option for patients with multiple sclerosis. CB1 receptors promote inhibition in the descending neural pathways, according to science. CB1 and GABA are both localized and typically share a signaling route.
In the case of bladder incontinence, CB1 and CB2 receptors are also found in the bladder. Cannabis may reduce inconsistency as a result of this. Contact between the endocannabinoid system (CB1 and CB2) and cannabis could significantly improve bladder dysfunction in persons with MS.
In clinical research, 630 people with multiple sclerosis from 33 UK sites were randomly assigned to receive dronabinol, candor, or a placebo twice daily for 15 weeks. The spasticity test conducted by the doctor revealed no significant differences, however, those taking cannabis products (dronabinol or candor) experienced significant sleep, spasticity, and spasmodic changes as compared to those receiving placebo.
Another study released in 2017 looked at the effects of cannabis on muscle stiffness. Individuals who took cannabis extract experienced significant relief from stiffness, as well as improved sleep and fewer spasms, according to the findings.
Reducing Pain from Multiple Sclerosis with CBD
The presence of various distinct factors in the body’s pain, such as viral compounds, receptors, and neurotransmitters, makes pain management more challenging in some situations. Discomfort is a typical symptom of MS, with over 2/3 of individuals diagnosed reporting substantial levels of pain. Pain is commonly defined as frequent headaches, nerve pain, back pain, spasms, and neuralgia.
The bulk of pain experienced by people with MS is due to nervous system disruption. While the exact mechanism by which cannabis helps with pain reduction is unknown, evidence suggests that C1 receptors in the brain and nerves play a key role in pain control. Cannabis may help to relieve pain by lowering inflammation.
Additional Research is a Must
Additional study is needed to learn more about multiple sclerosis. Without knowing the source of a condition, it’s difficult to tell what can assist reduce or improving symptoms. Despite the lack of understanding about MS, cannabis has proven to be a beneficial addition or alternative to the routine of someone diagnosed with the condition.
Sources:
https://www.nationalmssociety.org/What-is-MS
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/laneur/article/PIIS1474-4422(18)30049-8/fulltext