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Talking Cannabis with Your Doctor: How to Prepare for It

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Cannabis is a hot topic in the medical field, with many individuals seeking it as an alternative treatment for various conditions. However, before using cannabis, you need to consult your doctor. While some doctors may be hesitant to recommend cannabis, others are open to discussing it as a treatment option. 

If you are considering talking to your doctor about cannabis, here are some tips on how to prepare for the conversation:

1. Do Your Research

Before speaking to your doctor, do your homework first. This will help you understand the various strains of cannabis, their effects, and how they can benefit your condition. You can also read up on different modes of cannabis consumption, such as smoking, vaping, edibles, and tinctures.

If possible, familiarize yourself with the laws surrounding cannabis use within your state. This vital information will help you understand your legal rights and the potential risks associated with using medical cannabis.

2. Be Honest About Your Cannabis Use

Honesty is key when speaking to your doctor about cannabis use. Be upfront about how often you use cannabis, the strains you use, and the methods of consumption. Your doctor needs to know your complete medical history, including any previous experience with cannabis and any potential side effects you may have experienced.

Bear in mind that doctors are bound by patient confidentiality laws. That way, you can feel safe talking about your cannabis use with them without fear of legal repercussions.

3. Discuss Your Medical History

Your doctor will need to know about your medical history, including any underlying conditions or health issues that you may have. This will help them determine whether cannabis use is a safe and effective treatment option for them. The doctor will also want to know if you have any allergies or sensitivities that could affect your cannabis treatment.

Disclose any medications you are currently taking, as some drugs may interact with cannabis and cause unwanted side effects. Your doctor may need to adjust your medication regimen or monitor you more closely if you use cannabis alongside other medications.

4. Discuss Your Treatment Goals

Be clear about what you hope to achieve with cannabis treatment. For example, if you are using cannabis for pain relief, let your doctor know how much pain relief you need to achieve. Doing so will help your doctor determine the appropriate dosage and form of cannabis to recommend.

Having realistic expectations about cannabis treatment is important. This includes having a firm understanding that it may not work for everyone. Your doctor can help you set achievable goals and monitor your progress over time.

5. Be Open to Alternatives

While cannabis may be an effective treatment option for some, it may not suit everyone. Your doctor may recommend alternative treatments based on your medical history and treatment goals. Be open to these suggestions and willing to explore other options.

Here are some Safe and Tested CBD Brands:

The Bottomline 

Discussing medical cannabis with your doctor can be a valuable step in managing your health. By being open and honest about your medical history and treatment goals, you can work together to determine if cannabis is a suitable treatment option for you. Be sure to follow state laws and regulations regarding medical cannabis and be aware of potential risks or side effects.

At United Patients Group, we empower patients with the knowledge and resources to make informed decisions about their health. Our cannabis-friendly medical professionals in California offer guidance and support to patients seeking information on medical cannabis.

Call 415-524-8099 or email us at info@UnitedPatientsGroup.com for more details.

The post Talking Cannabis with Your Doctor: How to Prepare for It appeared first on United Patients Group.



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Not Everyone Has A Happy Holiday But Maybe Marijuana Can Help

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From broken hearts to being alone, not everyone is merry in December, but maybe marijuana can help.

It is supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year, but for a portion, it is a rough patch.  Whether through the lose of a loved one, illness or being alone, it can be tough for many. In one survey, 10% of those over 55 say they won’t have anyone else  in their home this holiday season.  Not everyone has a happy holiday, but maybe marijuana can help. Marijuana may help alleviate symptoms of holiday depression in several ways. Cannabis, particularly strains high in CBD, can reduce stress and anxiety associated with the holiday season. CBD interacts with serotonin receptors in the brain, potentially producing anti-depressive effects

RELATED: Can CBD Oils Help With Anxiety & Depression

According to a survey by the American Psychological Association, 38% of individuals report increased stress during this time, stemming from various responsibilities such as shopping, cooking, and entertaining. The pressure to create a perfect holiday experience can lead to feelings of overwhelm and inadequacy when expectations are not met.

Microdosing marijuana can be an effective way to manage holiday depression. By consuming small amounts of cannabis, typically 1 to 2.5 milligrams of THC, individuals can experience mood-enhancing effects without feeling intoxicated. This approach can help ease stress and anxiety. It can also help you reframe the self expectation pressures into things which are more manageable and realistic.  Microdosing allows for better social interactions and increased productivity, which can be particularly beneficial during family gatherings.

Additionally, combining low doses of THC with CBD can provide a balanced effect, promoting relaxation and reducing negative emotional responses. It’s important to start with a low dose and adjust gradually, as individual responses may vary.

THC, the psychoactive component in cannabis, can provide temporary relief from depressive symptoms, though it’s important to use it cautiously as high doses may worsen depression. Some users report that cannabis helps them relax, fall asleep more easily, and manage holiday-related grief. When using marijuana for depression, it’s recommended to opt for strains with higher CBD and lower THC content. Terpenes like limonene, linalool, and beta-caryophyllene may also have anti-depressive properties

RELATED: Life Lessons From Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer

However, it’s crucial to note while cannabis may offer temporary relief, it’s not a cure for depression. Individuals should consult with a healthcare professional before using marijuana to manage depressive symptoms, especially if they’re already on medication.

There are others ways to manage holiday-related sadness. Recognizing it’s normal to feel sad or stressed during the holidays can help alleviate some pressure.Adjusting expectations about what the holidays should look like can reduce feelings of inadequacy. Connecting with friends or support groups, or even volunteering, can help combat loneliness. Engaging in activities that promote relaxation and well-being can be beneficial.

For persistent feelings of sadness or depression, seeking help from mental health professionals is advisable. Understanding these factors and implementing coping strategies can help individuals navigate the emotional complexities of the holiday season more effectively.



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A Family’s Guide to Nurturing and Supporting Your Autistic Child

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Sensory tools like fidget toys, noise-canceling headphones, and weighted vests help with emotional regulation throughout the day. They can be especially beneficial in reducing overstimulation during activities like school, eating, or socializing. It’s a good idea to consult with an occupational therapist to find the right sensory tools for your child.



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Can Gummies Bring Down Election Anxiety

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Tensions are high, but can hemp, CBD, or cannabis gummies help you relax – especially with microdosing?

The American Psychological Association recent poll should 69% of American’s are experiencing anxiety about the election. Compared with the previous two presidential elections, stress related to the 2024 election was slightly higher than in 2020 (69% vs. 68%) but significantly higher than in 2016 (52%). Stress related to the current election appeared to be driven, in part, by the potential consequences from the election results.  The barrage of news, memes, friends complain is making it hard on people’s mind and body. Can gummies bring down election anxiety?

Anxiety can cause feelings of fear, dread, or uneasiness, and can make it hard to concentrate or make decisions. People with anxiety may also feel irritable, tense, or restless, and may have a sense of impending danger, panic, or doom. Not only does it leave you feeling miserable, it can interfere with your job and relationships. A short term solution may come from the cannabis plant. Can gummies bring down election anxiety?

Studies have shown the cannabis plant can help with a variety of medical ailments, including anxiety. A Johns Hopkins Medicine-led research team has added to evidence that a chemical found naturally in cannabis (also known as marijuana) can — in the right amounts — lessen the anxiety-inducing effects of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive sister chemical found in cannabis.

The cannabis plant produces marijuana (with THC), CBD, and hemp. Studies show all can help with anxiety at some level, but is dependent on dosage.  Microdosing a new trend to provide a very low dosage to take off the edge but to stay focused. Most gummies are either 5 or 10 mg. A microcode would be between 2.5 – 5 mg.  So a half or third and you can avoid the “high” while reducing the anxiety and moving into a better state of mind.

Marijuana Gummies

Marijuana gummies are a way for adults to cope with anxiety. But you should start with a low dose as you want to have a calming effect with out the extra bells and whistles.  Consider 2.5 mg and see how it goes from there….and recognize it will take 45 minutes to an hour for impact.

CBD Gummies

While some CBD gummies products promise and don’t deliver, Epidiolex is the only FDA-approved prescription CBD medicine, which among many things, means that it has a safety and efficacy profile that has been thoroughly evaluated in clinical trials. CBD doesn’t have the THC high as with marijuana so this would completely avoid any high. It is also a popular aide to sleep issues.

Other ways to reduce anxiety during this time is to focus on what you can control and what positive actions you can take. it is also important to set boundaries with how much information you will consume (including social media) and the conversations you will have.  Mostly, try to focus on things which help you relax.

 



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