Using Marijuana To Treat Concussions: What You Need to Know

Reading Time: 12 minutes

Have you ever felt this ‘pressure’ in your head after taking a hit to the noggin or getting into an accident? If yes, then chances are you may have experienced a concussion. The effects of concussions range from mild headaches and confusion to loss of consciousness and even death.

In recent years, medical marijuana has become increasingly popular as an alternative treatment for concussions due to its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to reduce pain. But does marijuana really help with concussions? If so, what are the best strains for treating concussions?

Below, we’ll discuss everything about using marijuana for the treatment of concussions, including the science behind it and which strains work best.

 

What Are Concussions?

Concussions are a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) that occurs when the brain is suddenly and violently jolted or shaken. This can happen due to a direct blow to the head, such as in a car accident, sports-related collision, or fall. Concussions can also occur without direct contact with the head, such as from an explosion or loud noise.

While it’s a common belief that concussions result in unconsciousness, this isn’t necessarily true. While some people may lose consciousness after a concussion, most do not. In fact, many concussions go undiagnosed because the person doesn’t realize they have suffered an injury.

Concussions are one of the most common forms of TBIs, with approximately 1.7 to 3 million people experiencing concussions each year in the United States alone. The severity of concussions can vary significantly between individuals, and it is crucial for those who have suffered one to seek professional medical attention immediately.

Concussions are accompanied by a vast range of symptoms and may even lead to long-term consequences. The symptoms of a concussion aren’t just physical, either. Mental and emotional issues such as depression, anxiety, and difficulty concentrating can persist for weeks or even months after the injury has occurred.

Here are just some of the common signs and symptoms of a concussion:

• Anxiety
• Agitation
• Confusion
• Dizziness
• Depression
• Difficulty speaking
• Difficulty concentrating
• Drowsiness
• Double vision
• Headaches
• Irritability
• Insomnia
• Lack of coordination and mental focus
• Memory lapses
• Numbness
• Nausea
• Personality changes
• Weakness
• Vomiting

 

What Happens During a Concussion?

When a person suffers from a concussion, the brain is suddenly and violently jolted or shaken due to a direct blow, bump, or jolt to the head. This can cause chemical changes inside the brain that can potentially stretch and damage cells in the brain.

This force causes not only physical damage but also damages neurons in the brain, which affect things such as memory, speech, movement coordination, and emotional regulation. This disruption of neural pathways can lead to long-term effects if left untreated, such as headaches, dizziness, confusion, difficulty concentrating and remembering things, nausea, fatigue, and more.

The severity of these consequences can range from mild symptoms like headaches lasting for days or weeks after an injury to more serious neurological complications like seizures or even death.

Even though concussions are often described as minor injuries, they should always be taken seriously because repeated impacts on the head over time can result in chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE).

CTE is a degenerative disease that results in dementia-like symptoms such as memory loss and behavioral issues; this condition is irreversible, and therefore it is important to take all necessary precautions when it comes to concussions.

Types of Concussions

Physicians classify concussions into three different categories. These are:

• Grade 1 Concussion: Symptoms usually resolve in less than 15 minutes, and the person feels only a mild headache afterward.
• Grade 2 Concussion: Symptoms last for a few hours or even days after the initial injury and can include confusion, difficulty concentrating, dizziness, nausea, slurred speech, and memory problems.
• Grade 3 Concussion: This is the most severe type of concussion and requires immediate medical attention. It can cause loss of consciousness, nausea, vomiting, severe headaches, or memory loss.

 

Weed and Concussion

Marijuana has been suggested as a possible way to protect against concussion damage and ease psychiatric symptoms, such as anxiety and depression, that can accompany a concussion.

Unfortunately, there is no conclusive evidence to support the use of marijuana in this regard; in fact, some research suggests that it may have negative consequences on neurological recovery.

Recent studies have found that THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the main psychoactive ingredient in cannabis, may help reduce brain inflammation and neuronal injury associated with concussions. It has also been suggested that it may help increase cerebral blood flow and reduce swelling around the brain, which can contribute to treating post-concussive symptoms.

Some researchers also believe that the properties of a chemical found in endocannabinoids like THC may help the brain self-repair after a traumatic injury.

Additionally, the recent findings of a study conducted in Tel Aviv have sparked renewed interest in using cannabis as a potential treatment for concussions. The study on animals showed that small doses of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) reduced swelling in the animals’ brains. However, this study has yet to be replicated and requires further research in order to draw concrete conclusions.

The bottom line is that more research is needed before marijuana can be recommended as part of a concussion treatment plan. Until then, it’s important for people who have suffered a concussion to immediately seek professional medical attention.

 

Best Strains to Treat Concussion

Since medical marijuana is legal in most states of North America and could potentially be used to treat symptoms associated with concussions, it’s possible to get a prescription from a doctor for treating separate concussion symptoms with different strains.

Some of the best strains for treating concussions are:

 

Sour Diesel

Also known as “Sour Deez,” this sativa-dominant hybrid is known for its energizing and uplifting effects. It’s an excellent strain for treating fatigue, headaches, difficulty concentrating, and other concussions-related symptoms. It also provides powerful painkilling effects that help with the inflammation associated with concussions.

On top of that, Sour Diesel also has dreamy cerebral effects that can help people relax and ease their anxiety while they recover from a concussion. It’s an excellent strain for those looking to take the edge off without feeling too drowsy or “stoned.”

 

Blue Cheese

Blue Cheese is another great marijuana strain for treating concussion symptoms. It’s an indica-dominant hybrid best known for its distinct aroma of blue cheese mixed with sweet blueberries. What sets this strain apart from others is that it works well for treating both headaches and pain associated with concussions.

Blue Cheese can also be beneficial for managing depression, anxiety, and migraines that may result from a blow to the head. The heavy indica effects will help people relax and unwind after a long day, making the recovery process much more bearable.

 

Green Crack

If you’re looking for a strain to help with difficulty concentrating, pain, fatigue, depression, and stress related to concussions, then Green Crack is the way to go. This sativa-dominant hybrid has become renowned in the medical community for its medicinal benefits, which include laser-sharp focus and a high offering of long-lasting relief.

Its effects are incredibly well-balanced and make for an excellent daytime medication. It’s also known for its enjoyable taste, which is often described as a blend of citrus and earth. Green Crack can be invaluable in helping people with concussions return to their daily routines.

 

Northern Lights

For those who just want to feel relaxed after a long day, Northern Lights is the perfect marijuana strain for treating symptoms of concussions. This indica-dominant hybrid has a high THC content and relaxes all muscles in the body. It’s known for its unparalleled sedative effects that can help people with concussions sleep better and recover faster from their injuries.

Northern Lights can also be used to relieve pain and boost appetite. This can be incredibly helpful for those dealing with a concussion’s physical and mental effects. With its deliciously sweet and spicy flavor, Northern Lights is an ideal choice for people looking to heal their bodies after a head injury.

 

Tahoe OG Kush

A pure classic, OG Kush is one of the most popular strains in the world, so you won’t have trouble finding it in your area. It crushes stress, kills pain, and swipes away the migraines. With THC levels of around 20%, OG Kush will put you to sleep as it starts to wear off.

OG Kush is a potent strain that offers a range of effects, from euphoria and happiness to relaxation. It also has strong cerebral effects and powerful painkilling properties that can help those with concussions get much-needed relief.

 

What To Expect During Marijuana Treatment For a Concussion

When using marijuana to treat a concussion, it is important to understand the risks and benefits. While marijuana can provide relief from pain, headaches, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and other symptoms related to a concussion, it also carries certain risks.

The most common risk associated with using marijuana for treating concussions is intoxication due to the high THC content of some strains. It’s important to start with small doses and slowly increase them until the desired effects are achieved. This will help ensure that you don’t get too “stoned” or overwhelmed by the effects of cannabis.

Another risk associated with cannabis use for treating concussions is overmedicating or consuming too much of a certain strain at once. This could make you feel tired and lethargic rather than helping your recovery process. To avoid this, it’s important to be mindful of how much you’re taking in and not exceed your recommended dosage.

On the plus side, those using marijuana as part of their concussion recovery can look forward to its anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce swelling around the injury site and help alleviate headaches. It can also work as an anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) drug which could help people suffering from post-concussive depression in managing their mental health more effectively.

Additionally, cannabis is known for providing an overall calming effect on the body that could be beneficial in promoting better sleep during recovery and regulating moods as well as appetite.

For best results when using marijuana for treating concussions, it’s important to consult a medical professional knowledgeable about cannabis before starting any treatment plan. A doctor can advise on proper dosage levels based on individual medical history and suggest specific strains that may be best suited for each patient’s unique needs.

 

Which Symptoms of Concussions Can Be Treated with Medical Marijuana?

Medical marijuana can be used to treat a wide array of symptoms related to concussions, including:

• Post-concussion headaches
• Insomnia
• Anxiety
• Neck pain
• Poor balance
• Mental confusion
• Fatigue
• Vomiting and nausea
• Sleepiness
• Irritability
• Mild depression
• Attention deficit disorder
• Lack of appetite

 

Some of the main characteristics of marijuana that make it a promising treatment option for concussions include:

 

Powerful Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Marijuana plants contain neuroprotective antioxidants that help protect the brain from damage caused by inflammation. The beneficial compounds in cannabis can inhibit the activity of enzymes and proteins, which leads to chronic inflammation in the brain. As increased neural inflammation is a major contributor to post-concussion symptoms, marijuana may help improve patient outcomes.

Analgesic Effects

Cannabis has strong painkilling properties that can help those with concussions to reduce headaches, neck pain, and other forms of discomfort associated with the injury. It’s important to note, however, that marijuana is not a replacement for traditional painkillers like opioids and should only be used in conjunction with other forms of pain management.

 

Promotes Better Sleep

The calming effects of marijuana can be helpful in improving sleep quality during concussion recovery. Studies have shown that cannabis has sedative properties, which can help people with insomnia and sleeping disorders fall asleep faster and stay asleep for longer. This could considerably reduce the amount of time it takes to recover from a concussion, as getting adequate rest is essential for healing.

 

Conclusion

Medical marijuana can be a powerful tool for treating the symptoms associated with concussions. The anti-inflammatory properties, analgesic effects, and sedative qualities of cannabis make it an ideal option for those looking to manage their post-concussion pain and discomfort more effectively. 

However, before beginning any treatment plan involving medical marijuana, it is important to consult a doctor with experience prescribing this type of medication.

If you don’t know where to start or your primary physician cannot help you, Kif is here to make it easy for you. Kif is a one-stop telemedicine service solution that can easily connect you to a network of doctors qualified to help you with your medical marijuana journey.

Book an appointment with Kif today and get the relief you deserve!

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Can I smoke weed with a concussion?

Research suggests that using cannabis, whether in the form of smoking weed or using a topical treatment, may be safe for a mild concussion. However, concerns remain regarding the potential effects of marijuana exacerbating or prolonging concussion symptoms. It’s best to consult a doctor before using cannabis as a treatment for concussions. 

 

Is smoking weed with a concussion safe?

Smoking pot with head traumas like a concussion is not particularly unsafe, so long as the patient is being monitored by a doctor. It’s still important to be aware that marijuana can have different effects depending on the individual. If you are considering using cannabis for concussion treatment, it’s best to speak with your doctor first. 

 

Does weed help with concussions?

Yes, marijuana can help with the symptoms of a concussion. It’s thought that cannabis may help reduce inflammation, improve sleep, and alleviate pain – all of which can help in the healing process after a head injury. However, it is not recommended as an alternative treatment for concussions without the approval of a medical professional. 

 

What is the best way to treat a concussion?

The best approach to treating a concussion is to rest, avoid alcohol and drugs, and seek professional medical advice. Depending on the severity of the injury, your doctor may recommend other treatments, such as physical or cognitive therapy. 

 

How long after a concussion can I smoke weed?

There’s no specific time frame for when you can start using cannabis to treat a concussion, as it depends on the individual and their healing process. It’s best to only smoke weed after consulting with a doctor who has experience in treating concussions. 

 

Can I take edibles with a concussion?

Edibles may be a good alternative if you want to avoid smoking weed, as they can provide many of the same healing benefits. However, it’s important to be aware that edibles contain higher concentrations of THC than regular marijuana, so it may be best to start with a low dose and gradually increase it under the guidance of your doctor.

 

Does CBD help with concussions?

According to several medical studies, CBD (cannabidiol) has anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties that may be beneficial in treating concussions. Studies suggest that it can help reduce symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and nausea. 

 

Can vaping with a concussion cause harm?

No, there is no evidence to suggest that vaping has any adverse effects on a concussion. However, it’s important to remember that cannabis can have different reactions depending on the individual and their symptoms. It’s best to consult a doctor before using vaping as part of your treatment plan for a concussion. 

 

How can I get rid of brain fog after a concussion?

Brain fog is a common symptom of a concussion. To promote your recovery, it’s best to avoid activities that require intense concentration, get plenty of rest and sleep, and eat healthy meals. If the brain fog persists, consult your doctor or seek cognitive therapy. 

 

Is it okay to smoke cigarettes after a concussion?

No, smoking cigarettes after a concussion is not recommended. Smoking can increase your risk of developing headaches, dizziness, and nausea – all of which are common symptoms of a head injury. It’s best to avoid smoking or using tobacco products as part of your concussion treatment plan. 

 

What are the best pain medications for concussions?

The best pain medications for treating a concussion will depend on the individual and their symptoms. In most cases, ibuprofen (Advil) is the recommended over-the-counter choice, though acetaminophen (Tylenol) may be prescribed if ibuprofen is not enough to manage the symptoms.

 

How long does it take to recover from a concussion?

The recovery time for a concussion will depend on several factors, such as the severity of the injury and the individual’s healing progress. Generally speaking, most concussions can take anywhere from 7 to 14 days to heal, with the average being 10 days.

 

Can marijuana help with concussion relief?

Yes, marijuana can be used to help reduce inflammation and improve sleep, which in turn can help with concussion relief. However, it’s important to speak with a doctor before using cannabis as an alternative treatment for concussions, as it may not be suitable for everyone. 

 

What is the best strain of weed for concussions?

The best weed strains for treating concussions will vary from person to person, as different strains can have different effects on the body. Generally speaking, Sour Diesel, Blue Cheese, Green Crack, Northern Lights, and Tahoe OG Kush are all popular strains for treating head injuries. 

 

What happens if you smoke weed with a concussion?

The effects of smoking weed with a concussion will depend on the individual and their healing process. In most cases, smoking weed will help reduce inflammation and improve the healing process, but it can also increase dizziness and confusion. It’s best to consult a doctor before consuming marijuana when recovering from a concussion. 

 

Can you get a medical card for concussions?

Most states do not list concussions as a qualifying condition for a medical marijuana card. However, Illinois does recognize post-concussion syndrome and traumatic brain injury as qualifying conditions to receive a medical marijuana card. It’s best to research your state’s laws on the matter before pursuing this option. 

 

Is THC bad for concussions?

No, there is no evidence to suggest that THC has any adverse effects on a concussion. In fact, most patients report experiencing relief faster when using THC as part of their treatment plan. It’s important to bear in mind that cannabis can have different effects on different people, so it’s important to talk to your doctor before starting a treatment plan. 

 

Can you smoke nicotine with a concussion?

Smoking nicotine is not recommended when recovering from a concussion. Nicotine can increase blood pressure, which can worsen symptoms and delay the healing process. It’s best to avoid smoking and vaping nicotine until your concussion has fully healed. 

 

What are some natural remedies for concussion headaches?

Natural remedies for concussion headaches include drinking plenty of fluids and staying hydrated, getting plenty of rest and relaxation, using cold compresses to reduce swelling, taking over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or aspirin, and avoiding activities that increase the risk of further injury. 

 

Is it safe to smoke weed after a concussion?

Yes, smoking weed after a concussion is generally safe. As long as you are using cannabis in accordance with your doctor’s advice and the recommended dosage, it can help reduce the symptoms of a concussion. It’s best to start with a low dose and gradually increase it as necessary. 

 

Can you sleep after a concussion?

Yes, it is safe to sleep after a concussion. It’s essential to get plenty of rest in order to properly recover and heal. If you are experiencing severe symptoms, it may be best to talk to your doctor before attempting to sleep. 

 

Can I drink alcohol if I have a concussion?

MedlinePlus, the United States National Library of Medicine, recommends that concussed individuals avoid drinking alcohol until all symptoms have subsided. Alcohol can slow the healing process and exacerbate concussion-related symptoms, so it’s best to abstain from drinking until you are fully recovered. 

Must Read: Medical Marijuana May Help Treat Cachexia