Hydrocephalus is a condition where cerebrospinal fluid accumulates in the brain, causing increased pressure and potentially leading to headaches, vision problems, balance issues, and even cognitive impairment.
While surgery is typically the primary treatment, some patients experience lingering symptoms, such as chronic pain and seizures, which can be difficult to manage with conventional medications. In recent years, medical cannabis has been explored as a potential adjunct therapy for managing these symptoms.
In Connecticut, patients with hydrocephalus can qualify for the medical marijuana program, gaining access to cannabis products that may alleviate their symptoms.
This article explores the role of cannabis in managing hydrocephalus symptoms, the process of obtaining a medical marijuana card in Connecticut, and how telemedicine makes access easier.
Understanding Hydrocephalus
Causes and Symptoms of Hydrocephalus
The brain’s ventricles fill up with an excess of cerebrospinal fluid, boosting pressure on nearby tissues. The condition can be congenital, or occur at any time later in life from head injuries, infections, or strokes.
Symptoms may include severe headaches, vision problems, problems with walking or balance and cognitive dysfunction due to the pressure the fluid buildup can cause.
Current Treatment Approaches
Surgery to place a shunt is the most common treatment for hydrocephalus — shunts help drain excess fluid from the brain to other parts of the body. If the condition is acute, another surgical option is an endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV), in which a new outlet for drainage is created.
While surgical intervention will help alleviate some of the residual symptoms (chronic headaches, pain, seizures), most patients still suffer from chronic headaches, pain, or seizures that are managed with other medications.
How Cannabis Helps with Hydrocephalus Symptoms
Pain Management and Inflammation Reduction
Cannabis is actually one of the primary reasons that patients with hydrocephalus consider, the other being pain management. Post surgery headaches as well as nerve pain are common due to the condition or following surgery.
Interaction of CBD (cannabidiol) when taken with cannabis has been shown to lower chronic pain levels by affecting the body’s endocannabinoid system.
Also, CBD has anti-inflammatory properties which help to reduce inflammation, which is very important for dealing with hydrocephalus associated neurological discomfort that keeps dogs struggling.
Seizure Control
However, if hydrocephalus has impacted the function of the brain, many patients will have seizures. It has been proven medical cannabis, high CBD cannabis in particular, has the ability to reduce the frequency and severity of seizures.
For example, an FDA approved CBD based drug called Epidiolex has been approved for the control of seizures in patients with neurological conditions such as hydrocephalus.
Anxiety and Sleep Improvement
Anxiety is a common occurrence for patients with hydrocephalus as symptoms often are extremely unpredictable and have a negative effect on the patients’ lives each day. CBD in particular can be calming promoting sleep and lessening anxiety.
Cannabis will improve sleep quality for patients that suffer from insomnia or stress caused by chronic pain or any other kind of neurological discomfort.
Medical Marijuana for Hydrocephalus in Connecticut
Qualifying for a Medical Marijuana Card
In Connecticut, hydrocephalus is recognized as a condition that can qualify patients for medical marijuana.
To access cannabis legally, patients must receive certification from a Connecticut-licensed healthcare provider who determines that medical marijuana may be a beneficial part of their treatment plan.
Applying for a Medical Marijuana Card
The application process for a medical marijuana card in Connecticut is straightforward. After receiving certification from a licensed healthcare provider, patients can submit an application online through the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection.
The application requires proof of residency, medical certification, and a registration fee. Once approved, patients receive their medical marijuana card, granting them access to licensed dispensaries in the state.
Telemedicine for Hydrocephalus Patients in Connecticut
Convenience and Accessibility of Telemedicine
If they have chronic headaches, mobility issues, or cognitive challenges, attending a doctor’s office for consulting can be difficult for hydrocephalus patients when they have to travel.
A telemedicine alternative is convenient since patients consult with recommended healthcare providers from their own homes.
Telemedicine services can be used to provide medical marijuana recommendations without the need for in-person visits, which greatly reduces the barriers to actually receiving a medical marijuana recommendation.
Cost of Telemedicine Consultations
Telemedicine new patient cost of obtaining a medical marijuana recommendation in Connecticut is $179, and the next renewal year is $149.
With hydrocephalus, this affordable option reduces the amount of stress on patients, making it much easier for them to get the care they need without having to travel.
Perks of Cannabis for Hydrocephalus Patients
Effective Symptom Management
Medical cannabis provides a great deal of relief from chronic headaches, nerve pain, and seizures for many patients with hydrocephalus. The fact that cannabis can change pain signals and reduce inflammation makes it a good candidate for treating the residual symptoms of hydrocephalus.
Many patients who use cannabis as part of their approach to managing pain say they’re more comfortable with less intense pain and need fewer and less addictive medications like opioids to keep pain in check.
Improved Quality of Life
Living with hydrocephalus can be challenging, especially when traditional treatments do not fully alleviate symptoms. Cannabis can help patients regain a sense of control over their condition by reducing pain, improving sleep, and alleviating anxiety.
Many patients report an enhanced quality of life after incorporating cannabis into their treatment regimen, allowing them to participate in daily activities more comfortably.
Conclusion
Medical cannabis presents a viable treatment option for hydrocephalus patients seeking relief from chronic pain, seizures, and anxiety. In Connecticut, patients can access cannabis through the state’s medical marijuana program, with telemedicine offering a convenient way to receive certification.
If you or a loved one is living with hydrocephalus and struggling with symptoms, consider exploring medical cannabis as part of your treatment plan.
Call to Action (CTA):
“Interested in learning how medical marijuana can help manage your hydrocephalus symptoms? Book an online consultation with a certified doctor today and start your application for a Connecticut Medical Marijuana Card.
FAQs
How does cannabis help with hydrocephalus?
Cannabis helps reduce chronic headaches, nerve pain, and seizures in patients with hydrocephalus by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system.
Is hydrocephalus a qualifying condition for medical marijuana in Connecticut?
Yes, hydrocephalus is recognized as a qualifying condition for medical marijuana under Connecticut’s medical marijuana program.
How much does a medical marijuana recommendation via telemedicine cost in Connecticut?
The cost for a telemedicine consultation is $179 for new patients and $149 for yearly renewals.
How do I apply for a medical marijuana card in Connecticut?
You can apply online after receiving certification from a licensed healthcare provider. The process is simple and can be completed through the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection.
Can I use telemedicine to get a medical marijuana recommendation for hydrocephalus?
Yes, telemedicine allows you to consult with a certified doctor online to obtain a medical marijuana recommendation.
