Treating Sickle Cell Anemia With Medical Marijuana in North Carolina

MMJ for Patients with Sickle Cell Anemia in North Carolina

There are estimated to be over 90,000 people living in North Carolina with either one of the sickle cell traits, hemoglobin C & E traits, or the beta-thalassemia trait, and it’s estimated there are approximately 100,000 Americans affected by sickle cell disease.

Sickle cell anemia is an illness that causes hemoglobin, a protein that contributes to red blood cells’ ability to carry oxygen, to mutate, making it difficult for the cells to carry oxygen throughout the body.

Patients diagnosed with sickle cell anemia in North Carolina will likely be approved for Medical Marijuana!

What is Sickle Cell Anemia?

Sickle Cell Anemia (sickle cell disease) is a blood disorder that affects red blood cells’ ability to properly carry oxygen throughout the body.

Without the proper amount of oxygen, your body can experience problems like blockages in the veins, leg ulcers, blood clots, pulmonary hypertension, and strokes.

The sickle cell trait is present at birth, and it can be transmitted from either one or both parents.

People are typically diagnosed with sickle cell anemia at an early age, as symptoms of sickle cell disease typically show up in infancy, at around 5 months old.

What are the Symptoms of Sickle Cell Anemia?

Chronic pain is the most common complication of sickle cell disease, frequently referred to as “sickle pain”. This pain is due to high levels of inflammation in the circulatory system, causing a sharp, stabbing pain that can last indefinitely.

Painkillers or opioids are often prescribed to help with the tremendous pain caused by sickle cell disease, but these can have their own lasting effects.

Other symptoms of sickle cell anemia include complications such as:

Anemia
Frequent Infections
Leg Ulcers
Pneumonia-like Symptoms
Problems with Vision
Swelling of the Hands or Feet

Can Medical Marijuana Help with Sickle Cell Anemia?

Medical marijuana has a powerful ability to help with inflammation and chronic pain, along with the emotionally draining effects that sickle cell anemia can cause.

Research suggests that cannabis can be an effective alternative pain reliever for sickle cell patients, especially considering the dangerous effects of long-term opioid use.

As a substitute for opioids, cannabis can provide a safer and more simple approach to severe pain relief. This is especially beneficial for sickle cell patients who typically begin using opioids at a significantly early age.

Cannabis also proposes anti-inflammatory benefits, which could help in determining exactly how much cannabis can help with sickle cell inflammation.

Medical marijuana may be an important alternative pain reliever to consider for sickle cell anemia and could offer potential benefits for patients diagnosed with sickle cell disease.

Get Your North Carolina Marijuana Card

Sickle cell disease is a serious condition that requires extensive treatment and care, and medical marijuana may offer significant benefits for patients suffering from sickle cell anemia.

We hope that patients will soon be able to apply for a medical marijuana certification and begin receiving the compassionate treatment they deserve.

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