Medical Cannabis for Crohn's and Ulcerative Colitis
In the state of Utah, there are certain qualifying conditions that allow a person to be permitted a medical cannabis card. Qualifying conditions under the Utah Medical Cannabis Act are listed here:
HIV or acquired immune deficiency syndrome
Alzheimer’s disease
amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
cancer
cachexia
persistent nausea
Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
epilepsy or debilitating seizures
multiple sclerosis or persistent and debilitating muscle spasms
post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
a terminal illness when the patient’s life expectancy is less than six months
a condition resulting in the individual receiving hospice care
a rare condition or disease that affects less than 200,000 individuals in the U.S.
pain lasting longer than two weeks that is not adequately managed
*visit Utah Medical Cannabis Program for More specific information on qualifying conditions
It's interesting to note crohn’s and ulcerative colitis are on the list of qualifying conditions. Crohns is a type of inflammatory bowel disease that causes inflammation of the digestive tract, which leads to severe abdominal pain, diarrhea, malnutrition, fatigue and potential weight loss. Ulcerative colitis is also an inflammatory condition that causes ulcers in the colon and rectum. The primary symptoms of ulcerative colitis include diarrhea, bloody stool, abdominal pain, and anemia.
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A healthy diet, proper hydration, and adequate exercise are all important considerations in managing crohns and ulcerative colitis symptoms. Flare ups can be triggered by certain foods (unique to the individual) and even stress. Even though a person can be attentive to managing their health, they still may need medical intervention to manage their symptoms. Unfortunately, it is very difficult to find medication that doesn’t have harsh side effects.
Medical cannabis is an alternative to conventional medications that doesn’t have a list of side effects worse than the disease itself. Local dispensaries have special blends of THC and CBD to help patients suffering with inflammation. Cannabis blended with CBD is thought to reduce inflammation, pain, and nausea. These special blends are also beneficial in improving sleep. If you are suffering from crohns or ulcerative colitis, you may consider meeting with a state- approved medical cannabis card provider.