Cannabis, or marijuana, is legal in many states to treat certain illnesses. Although many health conditions can qualify for medical cannabis, figuring out what they are can be confusing for someone unfamiliar without a background in medicine.
Generally, health conditions that qualify for medical cannabis are those that cause significant chronic pain, nausea, or spasms. You may qualify for a medical cannabis card if you have a terminal illness or a debilitating medical condition.
List of Qualifying Health Conditions
Many states now allow medical marijuana. But the list of conditions that qualify for medical cannabis isn’t always clear in a state’s healthcare policies. Here are some of the most common health conditions that qualify for medical cannabis use, as well as some less common conditions that are still eligible.
The following are a few health conditions that qualify for medical marijuana:
- Cancer
- Glaucoma
- HIV/AIDS
- Tourette syndrome
- Epilepsy and seizures
- Chronic pain
- PTSD
- Crohn’s disease
While these are commonly accepted conditions, be sure to research the laws in your state to know for sure which conditions qualify in your area.
What is Medical Cannabis?
Cannabis used for medical reasons is called medical cannabis. Although people have used it to help with chronic pain, mental disorders, cancer, and post-traumatic stress disorder for thousands of years, it was considered a dangerous drug in the United States. However, things have changed, and it’s now legal in 29 states because more research has been done on medical marijuana’s benefits.
Ways to Consume Medical Cannabis
Cannabis can be smoked, vaporized, or consumed orally for medical purposes. Smoking or vaporizing medical cannabis has an immediate effect that lasts for two to three hours. In contrast, oral ingestion like edibles or tincture oils take longer to set in but cause the effects to occur over a longer period.
Medical marijuana concentrate pens are one of the most effective and convenient ways to get it. These are a popular alternative for those who want a straightforward way to take their meds. The pens are designed with a tank that’s pre-filled with medicine, and you just inhale from the end. They are available in a wide variety of flavors and strengths and are a healthier alternative to smoking.
Are You Eligible to Get a Medical Cannabis Card?
Basically, if you have chronic pain, nausea, or spasms, you qualify for medical cannabis. There are many diseases associated with these symptoms, including chronic pain, cancer, epilepsy, Crohn’s disease, PTSD, Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease. A person diagnosed with a terminal illness, or a debilitating medical condition may qualify for a card authorizing the use of medical cannabis.