As the popularity of cannabis for its medical benefits increases, experts have indicated that this super plant can be used to treat Restless Legs Syndrome, also known as Willis-Ekbom Disease.
The symptoms of this neurological disorder typically become unbearable in the evenings, affecting the quantity and quality of sleep of the affected individual gets. Although the disease affects a significant number of individuals, its precise cause is yet to be identified. Moreover, its treatment has been largely unsuccessful.
As several countries across the world embrace medical marijuana and relax laws regarding marijuana, there is hope that individuals suffering from Restless Legs Syndrome would benefit from weed.
How do you know you are suffering from Restless Legs Syndrome?
Unfortunately, very few GPs are aware of the existence of this condition. Restless Leg Syndrome is also underdiagnosed.
However, if you are experiencing strange sensations while lying or sitting still, or you have a strong urge to move your legs, there is a good chance that you are suffering from Restless Legs Syndrome. Some of the abnormal sensations you may experience are:
· Crawling
· Aching
· Prickling
· Throbbing
So, what are the benefits of cannabis for Restless Leg Syndrome?
Restless Leg Syndrome patients are now using medical marijuana because conventional treatments cause negative side effects, are quite costly and are not working effectively to provide relief.
A 2017 study established that medical marijuana alleviates Restless Leg Syndrome among the affected individuals. After inhaling cannabis, 5 out of the 6 patients in the research experienced complete remission of the disease’s symptoms. All the patients reported substantial improvement in their sleep quality following the cannabis therapy.
What effects of Restless Leg Syndrome does cannabis treat?
One of the major effects associated with this condition is poor sleep quality. As indicated earlier, the symptoms get worse or even unbearable in the evening. Therefore, one has trouble falling asleep. Moreover, patients frequently wake up at night due to discomfort associated with Restless Leg Syndrome. As a result, their quality of life is affected adversely; they feel sleepy during the day. One of the reasons for the popularity of cannabis is its effectiveness in improving sleep quality. Therefore, cannabis use could improve the quality of sleep among patients, enhancing their quality of life.
Lack of adequate sleep is not the only problem that people suffering from Restless Leg Syndrome experience. The discomfort and pain that the patients experience is enough for them to avoid social gatherings where they would have to stand or sit for long periods. As a result, these individuals will experience isolation, resulting in anxiety and depression. Cannabis has been used in the treatment of these mental health conditions. As such, Restless Leg Syndrome patients could benefit from the enhanced mental health promoted by cannabis.
The Best Cannabis Treatment Method for Restless Leg Syndrome
You can use cannabis in any form for the treatment of Restless Leg Syndrome. However, if you need fast relief from the symptoms, inhaling your medical marijuana is the best approach. On the other hand, if you are patient and you require longer-lasting relief, edibles or tinctures are the best methods for you. Start with small doses before adjusting based on what you can handle.
Final Thought
While the symptoms of Restless Leg Syndrome are a nuisance, the condition is not life-threatening. However, insomnia and isolation associated with this disease may cause significant health problems. Thankfully, cannabis could help alleviate these symptoms and guarantee you a high quality of life.
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