Migraines, sometimes known as cluster headaches, can be crippling for many. The pain, sometimes combined with spotty vision and nausea, plagues almost one in four households in the United States. At that rate, it’s no wonder that those who suffer from migraines are eager for relief. But before you try CBD oil for migraines, there are a few things you should know.
A Public Health Issue
It is often lost on the public to consider the effects of any type of illness. The same goes for migraines. The Migraine Research Foundation reports that 157 million workdays are lost each year due to migraine ailments. That one number alone can have huge social and economic impacts. Additionally, the foundation reports that approximately $36 billion is spent each year as a result of healthcare and productivity loss associated with migraines.
CBD Oil for Migraines
Given the statistics mentioned above, migraine sufferers are desperate to ease the pain. When traditional medicine doesn’t work, they seek out alternative therapies.
One of the alternative options has been CBD oil. CBD is not yet fully regulated, so it can be very tricky to ensure you are getting a pure product. Since CBD does not cause intoxication like its cannabis plant counterpart, THC, you want to ensure there is little to no trace of THC.
In the past, some people that have struggled with pain or nausea due to an accident or illness have found relief in CBD oil. Thus, it is suggested that migraine patients who also have joint, muscle pain, nausea or vomiting resulting from the headaches could see success from CBD oil, as well.
So why isn’t it pushed more often as an option? It’s due to the lack of scientific research. There just isn’t enough evidence yet that supports CBD oil for migraines. Does that mean it’s not worth a try? Well, not exactly. But you absolutely need to speak with your doctor before you try the remedy yourself. As Dr. Stephen Silberstein, director of the Headache Center at Jefferson University Hospital said, “If you’re getting funny symptoms and you’re taking something that the doctor doesn’t know about, how’s he going to help you?”
Alternative Migraine Treatments
If you’re not quite ready to go the CBD route or if you’d just rather try something else for migraine relief, that’s understandable. But what other routes are there?
- Acupuncture
- Chiropractic
- Essential oils
- Meditation
While these have gained some traction in providing relief, they also can’t yet be recommended as a primary treatment method.
Support Groups
If you suffer from migraines, there are a number of organizations available to listen and guide you with solid, helpful information. Just a few include:
- My Chronic Brain
- National Headache Foundation
- S. Pain Foundation
- Coalition for Headache and Migraine Patients
Most importantly, don’t suffer in silence. If pain and suffering is leading you toward a path of depression or suicidal thoughts, seek help immediately. Please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. The line is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
In conclusion, migraines can absolutely affect lives in drastic ways. While one can hope a prescription medication will do the trick, it sometimes doesn’t come to fruition. If you want to try CBD oil for migraines, it’s crucial to speak to your doctor first. Have a plan before you use this unconventional method of relief.
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