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Why is it that some people see the light, while others are constantly reminded of the darkness? The intriguing anatomy and process of our brains help us to better understand the production of fear, anxiety, worry and the decision to take flight or to fight.
Anxiety
Stress and anxiety are a normal part of life and usually short-lived, but for 40 million Americans, it’s a daily battle. Whether it’s anxiety due to biological, psychosocial, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), the treatment options usually include behavioral therapy, counseling, and various prescription medications that block or dull different areas of the brain.
There are neurotransmitters throughout the entire body that send signals to the brain, alerting us instantaneously of real or perceived danger. Anxiety is made up of both psychological and physical symptoms. The psychological part creates the nervousness, fear and worry, while the physical aspect produces sweating, rapid heart palpitations, a rise in blood pressure, nausea and shortness of breath.
When anxiety disorders are left untreated or undertreated, several areas of the brain like the hippocampus (regulates emotions) and the prefrontal cortex (decision making, planning abilities) shrink causing long-term damage.
PTSD
With PTSD, many individuals have severe nightmares, flashbacks, hyper startle responses, and loss of interest, severe anxiety and are often suicidal. Numerous military veterans with PTSD have issues with employment, violence, and relationships. These veterans often have severe flashbacks. Many people who suffer from PTSD have difficulty sleeping, feel detached and estranged, which can lead to permanent disability.
The standard treatment options for anxiety and PTSD are antidepressant medications. Some of the most widely known drugs prescribed are Prozac, Lexapro, Zoloft, and Oxycontin. The classes of these medications play a role in how the neurotransmitters affect the mood by improving your state-of-
mind and creating a more peaceful, cheerful spirit, by extinguishing the brain’s transmitters. The problem is these drugs are highly addictive, have adverse side effects, and also in many cases, show signs of cognitive decline with long-term use.
The other issue with standard medications is that they more often than not, become ineffective and are unable to reverse feelings of severe depression. This is called treatment-resistant depression.
Standard Anxiety Medication’s Adverse Reactions
• Nausea
• Increased anxiety
• Weight gain
• Loss of sexual desire
• Severe fatigue
• Inability to focus
• Sleep disturbances
• Dry mouth
• Vision issues
• Constipation
• Forgetfulness
• Ineffective in treating stress, anxiety or PTSD Symptoms
How does Medical Marijuana Help with Anxiety Disorders?
The stark reality is that “standard-of-care” treatment often falls short. When these therapies disappoint, patients need alternatives for their brain and bodily health, cognition and long-term ability to function and experience calm.
Our brain and nerve cells have cannabinoid receptors, so our bodies naturally react to cannabis (medical marijuana). The structure of cannabis interacts directly with our cells. Our natural endocannabinoid system works synergistically with medical marijuana, creating a multitude of beneficial reactions in the body. The endocannabinoid cells have tiny receptors that take in chemicals and produce responses. This natural system in our bodies regulates things like mood, sleeping, immunity, pleasure, memory and much more.
Medical marijuana is made up of THC CBD and terpenes. The CBD is known to bind to receptors and is thought to regenerate cells and brain function, while THC helps to relax and alleviate the physical symptoms of apprehension. Terpenes give marijuana the green, healthy healing properties that are extracted from the leaf of the plant. There is a collaborative effect between these chemicals when taken together. This synergistic effect means the ratios of THC and CBD can be manipulated for the patient’s benefit.
It has been reported that many patients who undergo cannabis treatment, no longer need their prescription medications.
You must visit a Physician that is licensed to recommend MM. To legally purchase and consume medical marijuana in Florida, a patient must have one of the 12 specific qualifying medical conditions regulated by the government or have a medical condition that is deemed as appropriate.
It’s crucial for patients to seek out a highly qualified physician. The physicians at Omni Medical Services have spent a considerable amount of time researching and learning the ins and outs of using medical marijuana to treat disease states. Having the right doctor will make the difference as to whether or not your condition gets approved if it’s not already on the list.
For many patients with chronic pain syndromes, medical marijuana has helped them become pain-free without narcotics use. To find out more, please call 866-417-2002, or visit their website at OmniMedicalFL.com
OMNI Medical Services
866-417-2002
Omnidoctorsfl.com
To find out more, please call 866-417-2002, or
visit their website at Omnidoctorsfl.com
