In the U.S., half of people with asthma report using cannabis
The research found that the vast majority of respondents reported experiencing 'positive effects' on asthma after consuming cannabis
Curated and edited by Sechat Content, with information from Canex (Roland Sebestyén)
A historical survey indicates that, although only 40% of asthmatics have consulted their doctors, half of those struggling with uncontrolled asthma still smoke marijuana. However, researchers in the U.S. state that it is unknown how cannabis affects people with various allergies and asthma.
Notably, the study published in the journal Asthma and Immunology states that patients suffering from asthma smoke and vape cannabis, despite the fact that this has a negative impact on their lungs.
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The research found that while nearly 66% consume cannabis for medical purposes, only 40% have talked to their doctors about it. Conversely, only a small number of doctors monitor their patients' frequent cannabis use.
William Silvers, MD, allergist and cannabis allergy specialist, said: “In order to more fully manage their patients with allergy or asthma, allergists need to increase their knowledge about cannabis and ask about its use. This includes the types of cannabinoids, methods of use, reasons for use, and adverse effects.”
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“Just as with smoking, efforts should be made to reduce cannabis consumption. In addition to recommending other potentially safer methods, such as edibles and sublingual tinctures,” Silvers comments.
Asthma is a common lung disease that causes breathing problems. Symptoms vary, but are most commonly characterized by coughing, chest tightness, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
It is believed that there are several “triggers” and “risk factors” that cause flare-ups. Smoking, for example, or taking certain types of medications can exacerbate symptoms. Other factors such as obesity, depression, and anxiety may also play a role.
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Uncontrolled asthma vs. severe asthma
The difference between uncontrolled asthma and severe asthma is that while uncontrolled asthma can be more easily treated with an appropriate medical treatment plan, severe asthma may resist these treatments and is much more difficult to relieve symptoms, let alone fully cure the patient.
When treating uncontrolled asthma, plans may include inhaled corticosteroids and other controlled medications. However, if treatment does not mitigate symptoms for between 3 and 6 months, the patient may actually be suffering from severe asthma, which may eventually require a visit to a specialist.
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As the American Lung Association writes, signs of severe asthma include insomnia, visiting more than one emergency room per year, and eventually hospitalization.
The demand for medical cannabis has grown significantly in recent years as more people turn to the drug for its potential health benefits. However, the authors of the aforementioned research reiterated that there was no evidence that cannabis could help combat asthma.
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At the same time, however, the research found that the vast majority of respondents reported experiencing “positive effects” after consuming cannabis.