Marijuana and Traumatic Brain Injury

How MMJ Health can help Patients with Traumatic Brain Injury

What is Traumatic Brain Injury

A traumatic brain injury, or TBI, is caused by a blow or jolt to the head or body that disrupts the normal function of the brain. This can result in a wide range of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms that can last for days, weeks, months, or even years.

If you or a loved one have suffered a traumatic brain injury (TBI), you know how debilitating the symptoms can be. MMJ Health is here to help. Our team of Florida medical marijuana doctors is trained to help patients manage their TBI symptoms with the use of medical marijuana.

Symptoms of Traumatic Brain Injury

Symptoms of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) can range from mild to severe, and can vary depending on the location and extent of the injury. Some of the most common symptoms of TBI include:

Headache
Dizziness
Nausea or vomiting
Confusion or disorientation
Loss of consciousness
Blurred vision or sensitivity to light
Memory loss or difficulty concentrating
Difficulty sleeping or sleeping more than usual
Mood changes, such as irritability, anxiety, or depression

The severity of these symptoms can also vary. Mild TBI symptoms may include a brief loss of consciousness, headache, and confusion. Moderate TBI symptoms may include a longer loss of consciousness, persistent headache, and difficulty with cognitive and physical functioning.

Severe TBI symptoms may include a prolonged loss of consciousness, significant cognitive and physical impairments, and coma. It is important to seek medical attention if you or someone you know experiences any of these symptoms after a head injury.

Types of Traumatic Brain Injury

There are several types of traumatic brain injuries, including:

Concussion: a mild TBI that is typically caused by a blow to the head or body
Contusion: a bruise on the brain that can cause bleeding and swelling
Penetrating injury: when an object penetrates the skull and damages the brain
Anoxic injury: when the brain is deprived of oxygen, causing brain damage

Diagnosing Traumatic Brain Injury

Diagnosing a TBI can be challenging, as symptoms can be subtle and may not appear until several days after the injury. A healthcare provider may use a variety of tests to diagnose a TBI:

Physical examination: The doctor will perform a physical exam to check for any signs of injury or trauma to the head, neck, and body.
Neurological examination: The doctor will perform a neurological exam to assess the patient's mental status, vision, hearing, balance, coordination, reflexes, and sensory function.
Imaging tests: Imaging tests such as a CT scan or MRI may be ordered to check for any brain abnormalities, bleeding, or swelling.
Cognitive testing: The doctor may also perform cognitive testing to assess the patient's memory, attention, language, and problem-solving skills.
Other tests: Blood tests, EEG, or other diagnostic tests may also be ordered to help with the diagnosis.

It’s important to note that the symptoms of TBI can be subtle and may not always be immediately apparent, so it’s crucial to seek medical attention if there’s any suspicion of head trauma.

Best Terpenes for Traumatic Brain Injury

Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in many plants, including cannabis. They have been shown to have a wide range of therapeutic benefits, including anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and analgesic properties. When used in combination with cannabinoids like THC and CBD, terpenes can enhance the therapeutic effects of medical marijuana for TBI patients.

Pinene

A natural bronchodilator and anti-inflammatory agent that may help reduce inflammation and improve cognitive function.

Limonene

Known for its anti-inflammatory and mood-enhancing effects, which can be helpful for those with TBI.

Linalool

Has sedative and anxiolytic effects that may help reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality in those with TBI.

Myrcene

Known for its sedative and relaxing effects, which can be beneficial for those experiencing anxiety and sleep disturbances after a TBI.

Caryophyllene

Has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that may help reduce pain and inflammation associated with TBI.

Best Strains for Traumatic Brain Injury

Cannabis strains that are high in CBD have been shown to have neuroprotective properties, making them a promising option for TBI patients. Additionally, strains that are high in THC may help reduce pain and inflammation associated with TBI. Some cannabis strains that may help traumatic brain injury are:

ACDC

May help reduce inflammation, pain, and anxiety.

Jack Herrer

May provide a mood boost and improve cognitive function.

Purple Kush

May provide pain relief and promote relaxation and sleep.

Cherry Pie

May help reduce pain and inflammation while providing a calming effect.

White Widow

May provide pain relief and improve mood and cognitive function.

OG Kush

May provide pain relief and promote relaxation.

Sour Diesel

May provide a mood boost and improve cognitive function.

Blue Dream

May help reduce inflammation and pain while also providing a mood boost.

Cannatonic

May help reduce inflammation, pain, and anxiety while also promoting relaxation.

Harlequin

May help reduce inflammation, pain, and anxiety while also promoting relaxation.

Red Cherry Berry

May help to reduce anxiety and depression associated with TBI, improve sleep, and reduce symptoms such as headaches and seizures

Bubba Kush

May help reduce headaches and anxiety while also helping to manage the psychological effects of TBI, such as depression and PTSD.

Green Lantern

May help alleviate some of the symptoms associated with TBI, such as headaches, pain, anxiety, depression, and insomnia

Best Online Tools for Traumatic Brain Injury

Here are some websites with in-depth information about Traumatic Brain Injury.

What can a Florida Medical Marijuana Doctor do for Traumatic Brain Injury?

Our team of Florida medical marijuana doctors can help TBI patients by assessing their symptoms, medical history, and current medications to determine if medical marijuana is an appropriate treatment option. If so, our doctors can provide patients with a medical marijuana recommendation and guidance on dosages and strains.

At MMJ Health, we are committed to helping TBI patients manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. Book an appointment today to see if you qualify for medical marijuana in Florida.