CBD for Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a disorder that affects the way that the brain and the body processes pain, resulting in a range of chronic symptoms. Early research suggests that a lack of certain endocannabinoids may be the cause.
CBD oil may offer relief not only as a provider of endocannabinoids, but also by impacting how the brain handles pain.
People with fibromyalgia have often faced the stigma that their symptoms are psychosomatic. That is, the symptoms they felt were psychologically induced and there was no physical basis for their widespread pain. However, a recent review of the research found that a deficiency of certain endocannabinoids may serve as the cause of the disorder.
To better understand why this may be the cause, we’ll examine the science behind fibromyalgia. We’ll also look at how CBD, the non-psychoactive component of cannabis, may help reduce symptoms.
What Is Fibromyalgia?
According to the Mayo Clinic, fibromyalgia is a disorder that may cause the brain to change the way it handles painful sensations. This intensifies the pain felt by the body, which can then affect energy levels, mood, memory, and sleep.
Typically, those with fibromyalgia experience a variety of symptoms:
- A dull ache throughout the body that lasts for at least three months
- “Fibro fog,” or a loss of concentration or attention when conducting tasks
- Increased fatigue even with a full night’s sleep
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Migraines
- Restless leg syndrome
- Sleep apnea
What Causes Fibromyalgia?
Researchers and scientists aren’t entirely sure what causes fibromyalgia. It’s common for it to cluster in families, making it appear that genetics plays a role. Some infection-based illnesses and physical trauma or emotional stress may also factor into it.
As stated above, there is reason to believe that a person’s endocannabinoid deficiency could be a cause, too. The body’s endocannabinoid system helps to regulate the body, including areas of mood, pain, and sleep.
How Does CBD for Fibromyalgia Work?
Based on the idea that fibromyalgia is caused by a lack of endocannabinoids in the body, taking CBD may help fix this deficiency by providing the body with needed endocannabinoids. CBD may also help to alter the way pain is communicated by the body to the brain.
Generally, many people use CBD for pain. This is because CBD reduces inflammation, which is the immune system’s response to a potential threat.
What Is the Dosage of CBD Oil for Fibromyalgia?
There’s no specific recommended dosage of CBD for fibromyalgia. It’s typically recommended, though, to start with a low dosage and work your way up. If you begin to experience negative side effects, such as fatigue or diarrhea, go back to the previous dosage.
Of course, you should discuss taking CBD with your doctor before starting. He or she can help determine the underlying cause of your chronic pain, if you haven’t been diagnosed already, and work with you to come up with treatment options that best suit your lifestyle.
