Could CBD Help Manage Symptoms of Kidney Failure?

What Causes Kidney Failure?

Several health conditions can lead to chronic kidney disease and, eventually, failure. These conditions damage the kidneys, reducing their ability to filter the body’s waste. When the organs don’t function correctly, waste and toxins accumulate in the body. 

Diabetes causes kidney failure more often than any other condition, but other types of kidney failure include those caused by autoimmune diseases, high blood pressure and genetic diseases. The symptoms of kidney failure are similar to those of chronic kidney disease, though more severe. Chronic inflammation and pain are common. Other symptoms include:

•         Muscle cramps

•         Insomnia

•         Itchy skin

•         Anorexia

•         Chronic inflammation

•         Trouble breathing

•         Urinating a lot or very little

How Can CBD Help?

Kidney failure treatment requires dialysis or a transplant. Individuals who receive dialysis still suffer from many of the symptoms of kidney failure, as the treatment is not a cure. Systemic inflammation and neuropathic pain are persistent and often debilitating. There is some evidence that suggests CBD manages symptoms of kidney failure. Specifically, clinical studies have shown that CBD reduces inflammation. Furthermore, cannabinoids have been found to help with neuropathic pain associated with kidney disease. Thus far, research findings show few risks associated with cannabidiol, which makes it a promising option for managing two major kidney disease symptoms.