Exploring Edibles: Post-Stroke Consumption And Safety Concerns

The use of marijuana and its potential health benefits and risks is a highly debated topic. While some people claim that it has medicinal properties, others argue that it has harmful effects. In recent years, there has been growing interest in understanding the relationship between marijuana use and the risk of stroke, specifically the ischemic stroke. Ischemic stroke is the most common type of stroke and is caused by a blockage in the brain due to clots or fat buildup in veins and arteries. A study by the University of Mississippi found no evidence that cannabis is a risk factor for ischemic stroke. However, another study published in the Stroke Journal Report concluded that marijuana users who had experienced a rare type of bleeding stroke called aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) were more than twice as likely to develop serious complications, increasing the risk of death and disability. Additionally, research suggests that cannabis may provide therapeutic benefits for stroke patients, helping to alleviate post-stroke psychological issues.

Edibles can help with post-stroke psychological issues

A stroke can be a life-altering event, often leaving survivors with physical and psychological challenges. While the physical effects of a stroke, such as reduced mobility and impaired speech, are more apparent, the psychological impact can be equally devastating. Post-stroke psychological issues can include mood disorders, depression, and aggression. This is where marijuana edibles come into the picture as a potential aid.

In the United States, cannabis is acknowledged by the federal government as a treatment for strokes. The U.S. Patent No. 6630507B1 states that cannabis acts as a neuroprotectant following an ischemic stroke and other cerebral diseases. This patent is supported by research studies that have found similar results. For example, a 2012 study published in the Neuropharmacology journal found that administering CBD to newborn rats after a hypoxia-ischemia injury resulted in long-lasting neuroprotection.

Marijuana edibles offer an effective and affordable option for stroke survivors dealing with psychological issues. The cannabinoids THC and CBD, found in marijuana, are known for their therapeutic effects. THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the psychoactive component that induces a high, while CBD (cannabidiol) is a potent antioxidant that provides neuroprotection. By activating CB1 and CB2 receptors in the brain, they can help improve mood and reduce aggression.

The story of Dax Oliver's father, as shared on Medium, provides a compelling example. After suffering a stroke, Oliver's father, a conservative who had only tried marijuana twice before, turned to marijuana edibles for relief. He opted for edibles instead of inhaled marijuana as he had quit smoking after his stroke. The edibles effectively helped with his post-stroke psychological issues, and he always consumed pieces of a "1:1" chocolate bar, meaning it had similar portions of THC and CBD.

However, it is important to note that the use of marijuana edibles for stroke recovery is not without potential risks. Some studies suggest that marijuana use can increase the risk of a stroke, especially in young, healthy individuals. Additionally, it is crucial to consult with a medical professional before consuming marijuana or marijuana-derived products, as they can provide guidance and ensure safe use.

Consult a medical professional before consuming edibles after a stroke

It is important to consult a medical professional before consuming edibles after a stroke. While edibles may provide therapeutic benefits for stroke patients, there are also potential risks involved.

Firstly, edibles can be an effective and affordable option for relieving post-stroke psychological issues such as mood disorders, including episodes of aggression and depression. Edibles can also be a good alternative to inhaled marijuana, especially if the patient has quit smoking after their stroke. In addition, research suggests that cannabinoids like THC and CBD could have several benefits following a stroke.

However, there are also risks associated with consuming edibles after a stroke. Marijuana use has been identified as a trigger for acute myocardial infarction (MI), with the risk of onset increasing 4.8 times over baseline in the 60 minutes after drug use. This confirms the temporal relationship between cannabis and vascular events. Furthermore, cannabis causes tachycardia with increased cardiac output and cardiac workload, creating an imbalance in myocardial supply and demand, which can lead to acute MI.

In addition, a study published in the Stroke Journal Report found that among adults with a certain type of bleeding stroke, those who used marijuana within the last 3-30 days were more than twice as likely to develop a serious stroke complication that increases the risk of death and disability. The study also found that recent cannabis users were significantly more likely to have also tested positive for other substances, such as cocaine, methamphetamines, and tobacco.

Therefore, it is crucial to consult a medical professional before consuming edibles after a stroke to weigh the potential benefits against the risks and to ensure that it is safe for the individual's specific circumstances.

Cannabis may provide therapeutic benefits for stroke patients

Cannabis, also known as marijuana, has been used for its psychoactive properties for thousands of years. While it is currently illegal under federal law in the United States, some states have legalized it for medicinal and recreational use. The therapeutic benefits of cannabis are not yet conclusively established, but research suggests that it may provide benefits for stroke patients.

The Endocannabinoid System and Cannabinoid Receptors

Research studies on the human endocannabinoid system and cannabinoid receptors have shown promise for improving stroke symptoms and reducing other cardiovascular risk factors. The endocannabinoid system plays a role in the body's response to a stroke, as cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2 become more active, and the release of beneficial endocannabinoids increases.

THC and CBD

Cannabis contains chemicals called tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), which are believed to have therapeutic effects. THC is the primary psychoactive ingredient of cannabis, inducing the "high" associated with its use. On the other hand, CBD is a potent antioxidant agent that does not require an increase in dosage over time, unlike other cannabinoids such as THC.

Potential Benefits of Cannabis for Stroke Patients

Some studies suggest that cannabis can improve blood flow and provide neuroprotective effects after a stroke. For example, a 2011 study published in the British Journal of Pharmacology indicated that 2-AG, an endogenous cannabinoid similar to THC, decreased brain edema, inflammation, and infarct volume, leading to improved clinical recovery. Additionally, a 2014 review for the Journal of Cerebral Blood Flow & Metabolism suggested that cannabinoids are promising candidates for future treatment options.

Risks and Considerations

While cannabis may provide potential benefits for stroke patients, it is important to consider the risks associated with its use. Some studies suggest that cannabis use can increase the risk of having a stroke, especially in young and healthy individuals. For example, a 2017 report published in the Journal of Thoracic Disease found that recreational marijuana use raised the risk of hospitalization due to ischemic stroke by 17% in the 18-54 age group. Additionally, the World Health Organization has reported that the risk of stroke is higher in chronic and current cannabis users, with strokes most likely to occur during or within a few minutes of use.

Therefore, it is crucial to consult with a medical professional before consuming cannabis, especially for individuals with a history of stroke or other health conditions.

Cannabis may increase the risk of a stroke

While there is some evidence to suggest that cannabis may have therapeutic benefits for stroke patients, there are also studies that indicate that it may increase the risk of a stroke.

A 2017 report published in the Journal of Thoracic Disease, for example, found that recreational marijuana use increases the risk of hospitalization due to ischemic stroke by 17% in the 18–54 age group. The report also stated that cannabis has several significant effects on the cardiovascular system, including increased heart rate, irregular heartbeat, vasospasms, irregular blood flow to the brain, and acute rises in supine blood pressure. These effects can lead to an imbalance in myocardial supply and demand, resulting in acute myocardial infarction.

In addition, a 2008 survey found that over 15 million Americans use marijuana regularly. With such a high number of users, it is important to consider the potential risks associated with cannabis consumption.

Furthermore, the World Health Organization has reported that the risk of stroke is higher in chronic and current cannabis users. Strokes are most likely to occur during cannabis use or within the first few minutes afterward. This finding highlights the importance of regular doctor consultations for individuals using medical cannabis to monitor their health and manage any potential risks.

While the exact mechanism by which cannabis may cause a stroke is not fully understood, there are several theories. One theory suggests that THC, the primary psychoactive ingredient in cannabis, may trigger reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS). Animal studies have supported this theory by showing that THC has peripheral vasoconstrictor properties.

Another study published in the Stroke Journal Report in 2022 found that among adults with a certain type of bleeding stroke called aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH), those who had used marijuana within the last 3-30 days were more than twice as likely to develop a serious stroke complication that increases the risk of death and disability. This complication, called delayed cerebral ischemia, is a leading cause of death and disability after an aSAH stroke.

It is worth noting that most of the studies mentioned above are based on animal experiments or population studies, and more human clinical trials are needed to fully understand the effects of cannabis on stroke risk. However, the existing evidence suggests that cannabis may increase the risk of stroke, especially in young, healthy individuals. Therefore, it is crucial for individuals to consult with medical professionals before consuming cannabis, especially if they have any risk factors for stroke or other health concerns.

Cannabis may impair oxygen metabolization and energy production within cells

Cannabis is a controversial topic, with advocates insisting on its medicinal benefits and critics highlighting its harmful effects. While it is true that cannabis may have therapeutic benefits for some people, it is important to consider the potential risks associated with its use, especially for individuals with certain health conditions such as stroke patients.

Cannabis, specifically THC (delta(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol), the primary psychoactive ingredient, has been found to interact with CB1 and CB2 receptors in the body. These receptors are widely distributed in the cardiovascular system and can modulate the cellular activity of vessel walls, potentially contributing to the development of atherosclerosis. This interaction may also activate platelets, leading to increased thrombogenic activity and a higher risk of blood clots.

In addition, cannabis use has been identified as a trigger for acute myocardial infarction (MI), with the risk of onset increasing by 4.8 times within 60 minutes after drug use. This is because cannabis causes tachycardia, which leads to an imbalance in myocardial supply and demand, resulting in acute MI. Furthermore, it can cause vasospasms, irregular blood flow to the brain, and acute rises in supine blood pressure. These effects on the cardiovascular system are significant and can have detrimental consequences for individuals with underlying health conditions.

One of the most concerning risks of cannabis use in the context of stroke recovery is its potential impact on oxygen metabolization and energy production within cells. When an aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) stroke occurs, a weakened and bulging part of a blood vessel bursts on the surface of the brain. This type of stroke is rare but severe, resulting in neurological disability or death in many cases. Recent cannabis users who experienced this type of stroke were found to be 2.7 times more likely to develop delayed cerebral ischemia, a dangerous complication characterized by constricted blood vessels that cut off the blood supply to the brain, leading to more brain damage.

The exact mechanism by which cannabis may impair oxygen metabolization and energy production within cells is not fully understood. However, it is hypothesized that the activation of CB1 and CB2 receptors by THC plays a crucial role. These receptors are present in the cardiovascular system, and their activation can modulate cellular activity and contribute to pathologies like atherosclerosis. By interfering with normal cellular metabolism, cannabis use may disrupt the delicate balance of oxygen delivery and blood flow to the brain, making individuals more susceptible to the devastating effects of a stroke.

While the therapeutic potential of cannabis cannot be overlooked, it is crucial to approach its use with caution, especially for individuals with risk factors for stroke or those in stroke recovery. The impact of cannabis on oxygen metabolization and energy production within cells warrants further research to fully understand the underlying mechanisms and develop effective treatments for stroke patients.

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