The state of Louisiana has allowed the legal use of marijuana since 2015, but only for the treatment of a small number of conditions. Patients in Louisiana must have one of the qualifying conditions, as outlined by the Louisiana Department of Health, to be eligible for medicinal marijuana treatment (LDH). In the following paragraphs, we will go over some of the more prevalent medical conditions that are recognized by the state of Louisiana as qualifying for the use of medical marijuana.
Cancer
Millions of people all over the globe are afflicted by the devastating disease of cancer. In Louisiana, cancer patients are among those who can qualify for medical marijuana. The use of medical marijuana can help alleviate the symptoms associated with cancer, including pain, nausea, and vomiting caused by chemotherapy.
Crohn’s Disease
An inflammatory bowel disorder that affects the digestive system over time is called Crohn’s disease. Patients with Crohn’s disease often experience abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weight loss. Medical marijuana can help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, which can lead to a reduction in symptoms for those with Crohn’s disease.
Glaucoma
The optic nerve is damaged by a collection of eye diseases known collectively as glaucoma, and as a result, vision loss occurs. The use of medical marijuana can help reduce intraocular pressure, which is one of the leading causes of glaucoma. By reducing pressure in the eye, medical marijuana can help slow down or prevent vision loss in patients with glaucoma.
Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
The central nervous system is gradually weakened by multiple sclerosis (MS), an autoimmune illness. Patients with MS often experience muscle spasms, stiffness, and pain. Medical marijuana can help reduce spasticity in the muscles, leading to a reduction in pain and improved mobility for those with MS.
Parkinson’s Disease
A progressive neurodegenerative condition affecting the nervous system, Parkinson’s disease is characterized by the gradual loss of motor and cognitive functions. Patients with Parkinson’s disease often experience tremors, rigidity, and slowness of movement. Medical marijuana can help reduce these symptoms, leading to improved mobility and quality of life for those with Parkinson’s disease.
Ptsd
Traumatic encounters or witnessing such events can leave some people vulnerable to developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Symptoms of PTSD can include anxiety, depression, and insomnia. Medical marijuana can help alleviate these symptoms, leading to improved mental health and quality of life for those with PTSD.
HIV/AIDS
HIV/AIDS is a viral infection that attacks the immune system. Patients with HIV/AIDS often experience chronic pain, nausea, and vomiting. Medical marijuana can help alleviate these symptoms, leading to improved quality of life for those with HIV/AIDS.
Epilepsy
Seizures, or epilepsy, are a symptom of a neurological condition. Medical marijuana can help reduce the frequency and severity of seizures in patients with epilepsy. This can lead to improved quality of life for those with epilepsy, as they can better manage their condition and avoid potential complications associated with seizures.
In addition to these conditions, several other medical conditions can qualify for medical marijuana in Louisiana. These include:
- Spastic quadriplegia
- Muscular dystrophy
- Severe muscle spasms
- Intractable pain
- Seizure disorders
- Cachexia or wasting syndrome
- Severe nausea
- Severe and persistent muscle spasms
Final Words
It is important to note that patients must have a qualifying medical condition and receive a recommendation from a qualified physician to obtain medical marijuana in Louisiana. The use of medical marijuana should always be done under the supervision of a physician, as it can have potential side effects and interact with other medications.
Additionally, patients are required to apply for medical marijuana renewal Louisiana annually to maintain their legal use of medical marijuana in Louisiana. Therefore, patients need to schedule regular appointments with their physicians to ensure that their medical marijuana renewal is up to date.