Your Huntington’s IG Post Could Change a Life

As May blooms into full swing, it’s a perfect time to shed light on a condition that deserves attention: Huntington’s disease (HD). Let’s dive into what this qualifying condition is all about, explore the treatments available, and discover how each of us can play a part in spreading awareness.

Understanding Huntington’s Disease:

According to the Mayo Clinic, Huntington’s disease is a rare genetic condition gradually breaks down nerve cells in the brain. Think of it as an uninvited guest in your nervous system. Huntington’s disease has a wide range of effects on a person’s functional abilities, typically resulting in mobility, cognitive, and behavioral issuesAccording to the Mayo Clinic, Huntington’s disease is a rare genetic condition gradually breaks down nerve cells in the brain. Think of it as an uninvited guest in your nervous system. Huntington’s disease has a wide range of effects on a person’s functional abilities, typically resulting in mobility, cognitive, and behavioral issues. 1 

Available Treatments:

While there is no cure for Huntington’s disease, there are ways to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life for those affected. Medications may aid with movement difficulties and psychological symptoms, and techniques like physical therapy can work wonders in improving motor skills. Research into potential therapeutic treatments, such as gene therapies and medicines, also offers hope for the future.2
However, one new area of research in HD management is the possible role of medical cannabis. According to research, some chemicals present in cannabis, such as cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), may have therapeutic benefits for people suffering from neurodegenerative illnesses like Huntington’s disease. CBD, in particular, has received attention for its anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects, which may help ease symptoms of HD, such as uncontrollable movements. THC, on the other hand, may alleviate symptoms such as pain and muscular spasms.3 

How Can We Make a difference?

  • Spread Information: Share facts about Huntington’s Disease on social media using hashtags like #HuntingtonsDiseaseAwareness and #Hungtingtonsdisease to raise visibility.
  • Support Research: Donate to organizations funding Huntington’s research to accelerate progress towards effective treatments.
  • Fundraising Events: Participate in charity walks or virtual fundraisers to support Huntington’s disease advocacy groups and nonprofits.
  • Educate Yourself: Learn about Huntington’s Disease and its impact on individuals and families to become a more informed advocate.

Huntington’s Disease Awareness Month is an opportunity to support those affected and raise awareness of this challenging condition. By learning, supporting research, and participating in initiatives, we can make a difference in the lives of those impacted by HD and contribute to the search for effective treatments.

 

References: 

  1. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/huntingtons-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20356117  
  2. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/huntingtons-disease#:~:text=How%20is%20Huntington%20disease%20treated,movements%20caused%20by%20Huntington%20disease.
  3. https://www.cannabissciencetech.com/view/cannabis-for-neurodegenerative-disorders 

What if Your Favorite TV Show Could Be a Medical Superhero?

Let’s talk about the power of storytelling, especially when it comes to shedding light on medical conditions like ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis). While ALS might not always grab the headlines in popular media, showcasing fictional characters grappling with the disease can be a powerful tool for raising awareness. This ALS Awareness Month, we’re diving into a particular portrayal of ALS in NBC’s TV series “Chicago Med.”

Lydia may have been a small character on “Chicago Med,” but her plot had a lasting influence on fans. Lydia’s path after being diagnosed with a rare form of the qualifying condition, called “bulbar ALS,” mirrored the real-life obstacles that people with ALS face. Despite her limited screen time, Lydia’s story added depth to the show and offered viewers a glimpse into the challenges of living with ALS.

Through Lydia’s character, we witnessed the highs and lows of her journey. As her condition progressed, Lydia experienced changes in her speech and sudden emotional outbursts, both of which were linked to the degeneration of brain cells associated with ALS.

According to healthline, about 30,000 people across the United States are grappling with ALS.1 Often referred to as Lou Gehrig’s disease, ALS is a rare condition that affects the nervous system, particularly the motor neurons that control muscle movement and breathing in the brain and spinal cord. Imagine facing challenges like struggling to chew and swallow, dealing with muscle cramps and twitches, or even feeling your speech falter. That’s the daily reality for many battling ALS.2

While Lydia’s storyline didn’t explicitly dive into it, “Chicago Med” subtly hinted at the evolving landscape of ALS treatment. Medical cannabis has emerged as a topic of interest in managing ALS symptoms such as muscle spasms and pain, and discussions about ALS in the media are able to raise awareness about potential alternative therapies.

Lydia’s journey allowed viewers to connect with the lived experience of ALS, encouraging empathy and understanding. As a community-based dispensary, we recognize the impact of these portrayals on fostering compassion and inclusion for people living with ALS.

The way ALS is shown in movies and TV isn’t just for people who already know about it. Sometimes, it can help those who might not even realize they have ALS. Seeing accurate and caring depictions on screen might make someone recognize symptoms they or their loved ones may be experiencing and search for medical advice. However, it’s crucial for media portrayals to be accurate and respectful. By ensuring authenticity in storytelling the media can play a vital role in educating and empowering individuals to recognize and address potential health concerns.

To learn more about ALS, visit The ALS Association, which has everything from educational information to support resources for those affected!

 

References:

  1. https://www.healthline.com/health/als-prevalence#symptoms
  2. https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/amyotrophic-lateral-sclerosis-als

Fibromyalgia: Pain, Fatigue, and… Cannabis?

Have you ever had a day filled with exhaustion and mental fog? When you combine those with chronic pain, digestive issues, and muscle or joint stiffness, you get a sense of what it’s like to live with fibromyalgia. This May, we’re learning about what it’s like to live with this chronic condition, highlighting standard and alternative treatments, and investigating the possibilities of medical cannabis as a treatment option.

Understanding Fibromyalgia:

According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), fibromyalgia is a “chronic (long-lasting) disorder that causes pain and tenderness throughout the body, as well as fatigue and trouble sleeping.” While scientists are still figuring out the exact cause, factors like genetics, infections, and trauma seem to play a role in its development. It is most common in middle-aged women; however, fibromyalgia can affect anyone. The symptoms that come with it can vary in intensity and make all aspects of daily life a struggle.1

What It's Like to Live with Fibromyalgia:

Living with fibromyalgia is a daily struggle with pain, exhaustion, and a host of other pesky symptoms that can have a significant impact on physical and mental well-being. Individuals with fibromyalgia experience several obstacles in managing their disease, ranging from irritation over inexplicable pain to tiredness from sleepless nights. 2  What’s tougher is that these challenges aren’t always visible from the outside, which can lead to feelings of isolation and frustration.

Traditional Treatments for Fibromyalgia:

When it comes to tackling fibromyalgia, traditional treatments often revolve around managing symptoms. This can include a mix of medications, physical therapy, exercise, and lifestyle tweaks. Pain relievers, antidepressants, and anticonvulsants are common medications used to treat fibromyalgia, and they can aid with pain relief, sleep improvement, and generally improve the quality of life.3

The Potential of Medical Cannabis:

Medical cannabis is one alternative therapy that has been turning heads for its potential to manage fibromyalgia symptoms. Packed with cannabinoids like THC and CBD, it’s shown promise in relieving pain, reducing inflammation, and may even have neuroprotective effects. Research in “Cannabis for the Treatment of Fibromyalgia: A Systematic Review” suggests that cannabis could be a valuable tool in the fibromyalgia fight.4 However, as always, it’s essential to speak to your doctor to discover what’s best for you. 

Conclusion:

Living with fibromyalgia can be a difficult road, but remember that you are not alone. We are here to help you every step of the way on your journey to wellness. Whether you’re looking into standard treatments, alternative therapies, or medical cannabis, our goal is to provide you with information, resources, and compassionate care during your visit with us.

References: 

 

  1. https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/fibromyalgia#:~:text=Chronic%2C%20widespread%20pain%20throughout%20the,overwhelming%20feeling%20of%20being%20tired. 
  2. https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-does-fibromyalgia-feel-like-715813 
  3. https://www.arthritis.org/diseases/more-about/medications-for-treating-fibromyalgia-symptoms 
  4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10295750/