Marijuana and lung cancer are two topics that have gained significant attention in recent years. As medical advancements continue to explore the potential benefits of cannabis, particularly in managing various health conditions, the question arises: Does cannabis help alleviate lung cancer pain? In this blog post, we will delve into the available evidence, providing insights into the potential benefits of medical marijuana in managing the symptoms of lung cancer.
How Does Marijuana Help Lung Cancer Patients?
It’s important to note that cannabis has not been shown to treat cancer itself. Even though extensive research conducted in cells and animals has revealed intriguing findings regarding the effects of cannabis on cancer cells, including those associated with lung cancer, cancer patients should follow their physician’s guidance on the best treatment plan.
Additionally, there is no conclusive evidence to suggest that CBD oil, derived from cannabis, can effectively treat cancer or its symptoms. However, CBD oil has shown potential in alleviating anxiety, pain, and sleep-related issues. The slow progress in researching marijuana as a cancer treatment can be attributed to its legal classification as an illegal drug by the federal government. As a result, more comprehensive studies are necessary to understand how marijuana may potentially aid in managing lung cancer and other types of cancer.
In terms of pain management and treating cancer and cancer-treatment symptoms, however, cannabis often proves effective.
Treating Lung Cancer Pain with Medical Cannabis
When it comes to treating lung cancer pain, medical cannabis has shown potential benefits. Cannabis interacts with your central nervous and immune systems, which protects your body against pathogens. These interactions can help alleviate various symptoms associated with lung cancer and its treatment, including pain.
Some evidence suggests that cannabis is effective at treating pain, both from cancer itself and from nerve damage caused by treatments such as chemotherapy. For patients who cannot find relief or whose bodies cannot tolerate opioid pain medication, cannabis is an effective alternative.
Reducing Nausea and Vomiting
Nausea and vomiting are common side effects of chemotherapy, which can be particularly challenging for lung cancer patients. Medical marijuana has demonstrated the potential to relieve these symptoms, especially when traditional anti-nausea medications have been ineffective. One synthetic drug derived from cannabis, called Dronabinol (Marinol, SYNDROS), has been approved for treating chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. If you’re experiencing these side effects and other medications haven’t provided relief, consulting with your doctor about a prescription for these cannabis-based drugs may be beneficial.
Improving Appetite
Weight loss and a loss of appetite are frequently observed symptoms among lung cancer patients. Nausea and vomiting caused by treatments can further contribute to a decline in appetite. Also, lung cancer can trigger cachexia, characterized by severe muscle loss. Medical cannabis may assist in improving appetite, potentially countering weight loss and combating cachexia. By stimulating the appetite, cannabis could relieve individuals struggling to maintain a healthy weight during lung cancer treatment.
Getting Better Sleep
Sleep disturbances are a common challenge faced by individuals with lung cancer. Interestingly, cannabis can induce sleepiness as a side effect. If you’re experiencing difficulty sleeping due to your cancer diagnosis or treatment, cannabis may help improve sleep and alleviate anxiety. By promoting better sleep quality, cannabis has the potential to enhance overall well-being and contribute to a better quality of life for lung cancer patients.
While the potential benefits of medical cannabis in managing lung cancer symptoms are promising, it is crucial to consult with medical professionals experienced in pain management. They can provide personalized guidance and evaluate the appropriateness of medical cannabis as a treatment option for your specific situation.
Get the Guidance You Need on Medical Marijuana and Cancer Pain
For reliable guidance on the potential benefits of marijuana and managing lung cancer pain, contact Pause Pain & Wellness at 833-940-5060. As Mississippi’s premier Medical Marijuana Card Clinic, we have multiple convenient locations throughout the state, including Oxford, Meridian, Flowood/Jackson, Tupelo, Olive Branch, Starkville, Hattiesburg, and Gulfport.
Our dedicated team of pain management providers is well-equipped to offer you the necessary support and assistance in considering medical marijuana as a treatment option for individuals experiencing cancer-related pain.