Can I Treat Multiple Sclerosis with Medical Marijuana in Alabama?

Multiple sclerosis (MS), a common neurological disease, is even more prevalent than once thought. Whereas once it was estimated that roughly 400,000 Americans were living with MS, a recent study has concluded that the number is actually closer to a million.  

 

MS is an autoimmune disease that can affect the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves. 

 

MS patients’ immune systems attack their bodies’ myelin, a fatty material that surrounds and protects the nerves. Without this shield, nerves become damaged and scarred, impairing the brain’s ability to send signals throughout the body.

 

Symptoms caused by MS are diverse, and there is a lot of variation from patient to patient. Among the many possible common symptoms are:. 

 

• Tingling and numbness

• Fatigue

• Difficulty walking

• Bladder and bowel control issues

• Double vision

• Muscle weakness or spasms

• Sexual dysfunction

• Pain

• Depression

 

Much is still unknown about MS. It’s exact causes are still unidentified, but a variety of issues can influence the onset of the disease, including hereditary factors, smoking, and certain viral infections. Additionally, women are more susceptible to developing the condition than men are, and a healthy diet, regular exercise and effective stress management can all help symptoms.