Migraines & Cannabis

I Can't Today…My Head is Killing Me 😫

Have you ever said that? Or any version of that like “(I’ve got a killer headache” or “my head is pounding, I can barely see straight”? Unfortunately, I know firsthand how that feels. One of the first things that I started suffering from that led me to seek relief with cannabis were headaches. I remember having attacks of intense headache pain that would be worse with bright lights. I actually first started getting headaches playing high school football. Back then, I would mask them with whatever I could find in the medicine cabinet. These were usually my mom’s pain relievers like Doan’s and Midol (which I didn't know was for menstrual pain lol). I also suffered a scratched cornea playing which exacerbated the head pain and the photophobia (sensitivity to bright lights).

When I was in college, I would sometimes take a painkiller for headaches before a game because I knew the headaches were guaranteed to come. Little did I know at the time that this was a sign of brain injury/ concussions. When I got to medical school decades later, the migraines started. Maybe it was from the long hours studying, the fluorescent lights, the stress, lack of sleep or all of the above- but whatever the cause, they were horrible! They were so bad that I finally spoke to my doctor about them and was diagnosed with migraines. 

Migraines are more than just severe headaches—they are complex neurological conditions that affect millions of people worldwide. These attacks can last from a few hours to several days, causing intense pain, nausea, and sensitivity to light or sound. Although they absolutely suck, the good news is that there are several ways to manage migraines, from traditional medications to more holistic approaches like cannabis and CBD. Let’s check out some of the options available and hopefully any help any migraine/ headache sufferers out there that are looking for a little relief 🙂

What is a Migraine?

A migraine is a neurological disorder characterized by recurring attacks of moderate to severe headache pain. Unlike regular headaches, migraines are often accompanied by symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light (photophobia) and sound (phonophobia). Migraines can also cause visual disturbances like flashing lights, known as "aura." These attacks can disrupt daily life, with some people experiencing multiple migraines a month.

Pearls:

•  Migraines are not just headaches—they are a complex neurological disorder with symptoms that affect multiple senses, including sight and hearing.

• Approximately 12% of the global population suffers from migraines, making them one of the most common neurological conditions worldwide.

Demographics: Who Gets Migraines?

Migraines affect individuals across all demographics but are more common in certain populations. Women are three times more likely to experience migraines than men, largely due to hormonal fluctuations, especially around menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause. Additionally, migraines are more common among people between the ages of 18 and 44, with the condition often starting in adolescence.

Studies show that migraines are more prevalent in certain socioeconomic and racial groups. For example, individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds are more likely to report migraines, possibly due to stress, lack of access to healthcare, and poor nutrition. Research also suggests that migraines are slightly more common in Caucasians than in African Americans or Asians.

Pearls:

• Women are more likely to suffer from migraines due to hormonal changes, which can exacerbate symptoms.

• Studies have shown that migraines are most prevalent in lower-income populations, highlighting the role of stress and limited access to care as potential triggers.

Traditional Migraine Treatments: Pros and Cons

Traditional treatments for migraines typically include medications like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), triptans, and ergotamine. These medications work by targeting inflammation, blood vessels, or pain pathways. However, each has its advantages and drawbacks.

• NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen): These are often the first line of treatment for mild migraines. They help reduce pain and inflammation but can cause stomach irritation or ulcers with long-term use.

• Triptans (e.g., sumatriptan): Triptans are effective for moderate to severe migraines, as they constrict blood vessels and block pain pathways. However, they may not be suitable for individuals with heart conditions due to their effects on blood circulation.

• Ergotamines: Ergotamines are less commonly prescribed today but can help with severe migraines. However, they carry the risk of side effects like nausea and can lead to overuse headaches.

Pearls:

• Triptans are a common treatment for moderate to severe migraines, but they aren’t suitable for everyone, particularly those with heart conditions.

• Long-term use of NSAIDs for migraine treatment can lead to gastrointestinal issues like ulcers, which is why moderation is key in their usage.

Holistic Approaches to Managing Migraines

Beyond medications, many migraine sufferers turn to holistic treatments. Some options include acupuncture, dietary changes, stress management techniques, and biofeedback.

• Acupuncture: Acupuncture has been shown in some studies to reduce the frequency and intensity of migraines. However, results can vary from person to person, and it may take several sessions to see improvement.

• Dietary Changes: Avoiding common migraine triggers such as processed foods, alcohol, and caffeine (sometimes) can be helpful. Incorporating foods rich in magnesium and omega-3 fatty acids may also reduce symptoms. You may have heard of the “5 C’s” to avoid: cheese, chocolate, coffee, coke and citrus fruits. 

• Biofeedback: This technique involves learning how to control physiological processes like heart rate and muscle tension. While it requires training, biofeedback can be an effective way to reduce stress-related migraines.

Pearls:

• Holistic treatments such as acupuncture and dietary changes offer alternative ways to manage migraines, especially for those seeking non-medication options.

• Studies suggest that regular magnesium intake through diet or supplements can significantly reduce the frequency of migraines.

Cannabis and CBD: My favorite Migraine Relievers 🎉

In recent years, cannabis and CBD have emerged as promising options for migraine relief. Both cannabinoids interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate pain, mood, and inflammation. Research shows that cannabis can help reduce the intensity and frequency of migraines by blocking pain signals in the brain and reducing inflammation.

Routes of Administration:

1. Inhalation (Smoking or Vaping): Inhalation provides rapid relief because cannabinoids enter the bloodstream quickly. This can be beneficial for individuals who need immediate migraine relief, though it may not be suitable for those with lung conditions.

2. Sublingual (Under the Tongue): CBD tinctures and oils can be taken sublingually, allowing for a more controlled and steady release of cannabinoids. This method is often preferred by those who want to avoid smoking but still desire relatively fast relief.

3. Edibles: Cannabis edibles take longer to take effect, usually between 30 minutes to two hours, but the effects are longer-lasting. Edibles may be useful for preventing migraines rather than providing immediate relief.

4. Topicals: Some people use topical CBD creams or balms applied to the temples or neck to reduce localized pain and inflammation, though their effectiveness for migraines specifically is still under study.

Pearls:

• Cannabis and CBD offer new potential treatments for migraines, with various methods of administration, including inhalation, sublingual, and edibles, each providing unique benefits.

• Topical CBD applications are being studied for migraine relief, with some early evidence suggesting they might reduce localized pain (though more research is needed).

Wrapping It All Up

I’m happy to say that I rarely get migraines any longer. Maybe it's the CBD (which I take almost daily) or the fact that I wear sunglasses to keep my eye strain down (and because I look good in em 😎) or the fact that I exercise regularly, keep my stress levels low and no longer bang my head into other human beings with the intent of causing physical damage to them- or maybe it’s all of the above. The way I manage my headaches is multifactorial and I give my patients the same advice. To me, it just makes sense given the nature of the condition. 

Migraines are a complex condition affecting millions worldwide, and finding the right treatment can be challenging. Traditional medications like NSAIDs and triptans are widely used, but holistic methods like acupuncture, biofeedback, and dietary changes provide alternatives. Recent research into cannabis and CBD shows promise for managing migraine symptoms, offering fast relief through inhalation and longer-lasting effects through edibles and tinctures. As we learn more about migraines, combining traditional and new approaches could lead to better outcomes for sufferers. If you’re interested in treating your migraines, definitely speak to a healthcare professional about options that are best suited for you. If you're considering CBD or cannabis, make sure to only purchase from trusted sources and as always, feel free to reach out to us- we’re happy to help!  😀

Pearls:

• Combining traditional treatments with holistic and emerging methods like CBD offers the best potential for individualized migraine relief.

• Emerging studies on the role of the endocannabinoid system in pain management suggest that cannabis may be a valuable tool in treating more than just migraines, with potential implications for other chronic pain conditions.