Understanding Migraines

Migraines are more than just severe headaches; they are a neurological condition that can cause intense, debilitating pain, often accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. For many, migraines can be very disruptive, disrupting daily life and making it critical to explore effective treatment options. One emerging treatment gaining attention is medical cannabis. In this blog post, we'll dive deep into what migraines are, their causes and symptoms, and how medical cannabis might offer relief.

What Are Migraines?

Symptoms of Migraines

Migraines are characterised by several distinct phases, each with its own set of symptoms:

Prodrome: This early warning phase can occur hours or even days before the headache. Symptoms include mood changes, food cravings, neck stiffness, frequent yawning, and increased thirst.
Aura: Some people experience auras before or during a migraine. Auras are sensory disturbances that include visual changes like flashing lights, blind spots, or zigzag patterns. Other auras may involve tingling sensations, difficulty speaking, or muscle weakness.
Attack Phase: The headache phase can last anywhere from a few hours to three days. The pain is often throbbing or pulsating and typically affects one side of the head. During this phase, many individuals experience nausea, vomiting, and heightened sensitivity to light, sound, and smell.
Postdrome: After the headache subsides, individuals may feel drained, confused, or the opposite, elated with a surge of energy. This phase can last up to a day.

Causes and Triggers of Migraines

Migraines are believed to be caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and neurological factors. Common triggers include:

Stress: High levels of stress can trigger migraines.
Hormonal Changes: Particularly in women, fluctuations in oestrogen levels can lead to migraines.
Diet: Certain foods, such as aged cheeses, processed meats, and alcohol, are known to trigger migraines.
Environmental Factors: Bright lights, loud noises, and strong smells can also serve as triggers.

Conventional Treatments for Migraines

Traditionally, migraines are treated with a combination of over-the-counter pain relievers, prescription medications, and lifestyle changes. Some commonly used treatments include:

NSAIDs: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, like ibuprofen, are often the first line of defence.
Triptans: Prescription medications that can relieve pain and other symptoms by blocking pain pathways in the brain.
Preventive Medications: For those with frequent migraines, medications like beta-blockers, antidepressants, and antiepileptics may be prescribed.

The Potential of Medical Cannabis in Migraine Relief

As the medical community continues to explore alternative treatments, medical cannabis has emerged as a potential option for migraine sufferers. Here's how it might help:

How Does Medical Cannabis Work To Combat Migraines?

Medical cannabis contains two primary compounds: THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). These cannabinoids interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the body, which plays a crucial role in regulating pain, inflammation, and neurological function.

THC: Known for its psychoactive effects, THC can reduce pain perception and promote relaxation, which may be beneficial during a migraine attack.
CBD: CBD does not have psychoactive effects but has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that could help reduce the frequency and intensity of migraines.

Research on Medical Cannabis for Migraines

While research is still in its early stages, several studies suggest that medical cannabis could be a promising treatment for migraines:

Pain Relief: A study published in the Journal of Pain found that inhaled cannabis reduces migraine pain by nearly 50% in some participants.
Frequency Reduction: Research from the European Academy of Neurology indicated that medical cannabis might reduce the frequency of migraine attacks by up to 40%.
Fewer Side Effects: Compared to conventional migraine medications, many patients report fewer side effects when using medical cannabis, such as less gastrointestinal discomfort and a reduced risk of medication overuse headaches.

How to Use Medical Cannabis for Migraines

Methods of Consumption

There are various ways to consume medical cannabis, each with its own advantages and considerations:

Inhalation (Smoking/Vaping): Provides quick relief, making it ideal for acute migraine attacks. However, smoking can irritate the lungs, so vaping or using a vaporiser might be preferable.
Edibles: Edibles offer long-lasting effects, which can be helpful for prolonged migraines. However, the onset of relief is slower, which may not be ideal for sudden attacks.
Tinctures/Oils: These can be taken sublingually (under the tongue) for relatively fast relief without the need for inhalation.

Dosage and Strain Selection

Finding the right dosage and strain is crucial for effective migraine relief:

Start Low, Go Slow: It’s advisable to start with a low dose and gradually increase until you find the optimal relief with minimal side effects. However, at Cantourage Clinic, your specialist will tailor the treatment plan according to your symptoms and needs.
Strain Selection: Indica strains are generally preferred for their relaxing properties, which can help with sleep and pain relief. Sativa strains may be too stimulating for some migraine sufferers but could help others with fatigue and mood elevation.

Is Medical Cannabis Right for You?

While medical cannabis offers promise for migraine relief, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. The effectiveness can vary based on individual factors such as the frequency and severity of migraines, overall health, and response to cannabis. For those who have not found relief with traditional migraine treatments, or who are seeking a more natural approach, medical cannabis may be worth considering as part of a comprehensive migraine management plan. As research continues to evolve, we may see even more targeted and effective cannabis-based treatments for migraines in the future.

If you're interested in exploring medical cannabis as a treatment option for migraines, consider reaching out to Cantourage Clinic. Their team of specialists can provide personalized advice and help you navigate the process of obtaining medical cannabis legally and safely.