Medical Marijuana Qualifying Conditions
Dr. Z Green Therapy is a medical practice based in Bethesda, Maryland offering comprehensive medical marijuana assessments. We evaluate patients who are experiencing a wide range of conditions that may be treated with medical marijuana. After a patient is assessed, our certified Maryland medical marijuana doctor will be able to make a recommendation for a medical marijuana card, which a patient can then obtain through the state of Maryland to legally acquire marijuana at a local dispensary.
What are the qualifying factors that may warrant a medical marijuana card?
According to the Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission (MMCC), a qualifying condition can be treated using medical marijuana if the condition:
- Is severe
- Has not improved with the use of other treatment options, and/or
- Can be reasonably expected to improve with the use of medical marijuana
The following chronic or debilitating medical conditions are often treated using medical marijuana.
Chronic or Severe Pain
Patients suffering from chronic headaches, joint pain, and other forms of severe or chronic pain may be good candidates for medical marijuana. In the past, prescription pain medications were the most commonly used treatment for chronic pain. However, we now know that pain medications are extremely addicting, and cause a substantial number of deaths due to overdose in the U.S. every year. Not only that, but pain medications can result in a wide range of negative side effects. Medical marijuana is now an alternative treatment option for ongoing pain conditions.
Cachexia (Wasting Syndrome)
Cachexia, also known as wasting syndrome, refers to the ongoing weight loss and malnutrition that is associated with many serious illnesses including: cancer, HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, cystic fibrosis, Crohn’s disease, and congestive heart failure. Cannabinoids found in medical cannabis have been shown to stimulate appetite and stabilize body weight for some patients.
Anorexia
Anorexia nervosa, or anorexia for short, is an eating disorder characterized by excessive exercise, food refusal, or extreme dieting to lose weight. Patients suffering from the disorder usually weigh at least 15% less than their ideal/normal body weight. The use of medical marijuana can stimulate the body’s metabolism and increase the appetite, which may encourage a patient to eat more.
Severe Nausea
Extreme nausea and inability to eat, which is a common side effect of cancer chemotherapy, can be treated with medical marijuana. The cannabinoids found in medical cannabis may produce a stronger appetite and suppress feelings of nausea.
Seizures
Epilepsy is a brain condition that causes misfiring nerves and results in seizures. Seizures are characterized by short episodes that often involve seeing things, hearing things, losing control of body motions, having muscle spasms, or falling down. Numerous studies on the use of medical marijuana point to potential benefits for patients who have seizures or epilepsy. In some cases, cannabidiol (CBD), which is found in medical marijuana, has shown positive effects on certain body systems that help control seizures.
Chronic or Severe Muscle Spasms
Chronic muscle cramps or spasms can be due to dehydration, poor circulation, or nerve problems. Patients with chronic muscle spasms experience sharp muscle pain, often in the lower back. When severe, muscle spasms can substantially lower a person’s quality of life and, in some cases, can be debilitating. Medical cannabis may be useful in treating these severe muscle spasms when other conventional treatments have failed.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a condition that causes damage to your eye’s optic nerve and tends to worsen over the course of a person’s life. While symptoms do not usually occur in the early stages, they may develop over time and include vision loss, especially in the outer portion of the eye. Research studies have shown that the THC found in medical marijuana has reduced the pressure within the eye, which may limit the progression of glaucoma and reduce vision loss as a result of the condition.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Post-traumatic stress disorder, also known as PTSD, is a mental health disorder that occurs after experiencing a horrific event. Those who suffer from a traumatic event may experience flashbacks, severe anxiety, racing thoughts, or nightmares. In some cases, medical marijuana is recommended to help relieve symptoms of PTSD.
At Dr. Z Green Therapy, we evaluate patients of all ages who are experiencing a wide range of conditions that may be effectively treated through medicinal marijuana. Our goal is to provide a thorough evaluation wherein we can assess each patient and educate them about their treatment options. Request an appointment today to get started on the path to relief.