After a distressing incident that left my children frightened, I turned to medical marijuana to manage the chronic pain from my rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The night I frightened my kids is one I won’t forget. “Cuddle Bug!” I shouted to my youngest daughter, my lips exaggeratedly puckered. “Come give Mommy a big kiss, Cuddle Bug!” I also remember yelling at our cat and accusing my family of interfering with my computer.
In the recording they made of that chaotic evening, my daughter can be heard sobbing, “Mom, are you okay? Is this really happening?” The concern in their voices was palpable. I was experiencing a severe flare, characterized by debilitating pain in the cartilage between my ribs, a condition known as costochondritis, which often accompanies RA. It felt like I was enduring multiple heart attacks simultaneously, all while under the influence of hydrocodone prescribed by the ER doctor earlier that day. Instead of alleviating my pain, the medication only heightened my paranoia.
Discovering Medical Marijuana
Enter medical marijuana. My prior experience with cannabis was limited to a few unimpressive encounters in my 20s. Now in my late 40s and abstaining from alcohol for personal reasons, I had never considered medical marijuana until a friend suggested I explore its potential for reducing inflammation. Given that RA is fundamentally an inflammatory condition, I decided to give it a try.
I began with a topical cream infused with CBD oil. CBD, or cannabidiol, is a non-psychoactive compound derived from the cannabis plant. When applied to my painful joints, the CBD cream significantly lowered my pain level from a 9/10 to a manageable 4, along with visibly reducing swelling. However, it didn’t address the root cause of my inflammation.
RA is an autoimmune disorder, meaning my body is essentially waging war on itself. To tackle this, I found success with a combination of CBD juice, made by juicing cannabis leaves, and edibles containing THC, the psychoactive element of marijuana. The THC provides a delightful, calming effect that, when taken before bed, ensures I enjoy a restorative night’s sleep—without the fear of alarming my family with erratic behavior.
The young clerk at my local dispensary mentioned that this combination is a top seller among middle-aged and older patients dealing with chronic, inflammation-related conditions. Medical marijuana has been a game-changer for me, helping me manage severe flares and maintain my mobility through physical therapy. It has been nothing short of miraculous.
Improving My Health and Well-Being
Moreover, I’ve successfully weaned off my prescription anti-anxiety medication. When I consulted my doctor, she admitted there’s insufficient research on medical marijuana’s effects. “You know, there would be more studies if people weren’t so quick to demonize a simple plant,” I replied, not very politely. We both shared a laugh; she’s always been supportive. “I tell my patients, once you find what works for you, stick with it.”
Since incorporating medical marijuana into my routine, I’ve eliminated all other medications. I no longer rely on NSAIDs that once made my stomach cry out in distress, nor do I need to refill my Xanax prescription. My rheumatologist has noted no need for stronger treatments for my RA, which means I’ve avoided a cycle of cortisone shots and other harsh medications that left me feeling miserable.
Overcoming Stigma
As someone who grew up during the D.A.R.E. initiative, I initially felt ashamed about using medical marijuana. However, I’ve come to realize there’s no reason for shame. Unlike the serious risks associated with opioids like hydrocodone, I have no cravings for marijuana outside its medicinal use. In fact, even if I wanted to use it recreationally, I wouldn’t fear addiction; it serves its purpose without leading me astray.
For me, a nearly 50-year-old mother of three teenagers, medical marijuana is a natural remedy that has restored my mobility and alleviated anxiety. It has brought back the energetic version of me that my children needed and put an end to those horrifying, hydrocodone-fueled outbursts. If you’re looking to learn more about family planning, check out this artificial insemination kit we have; it’s a great resource. For those interested in pregnancy and home insemination, I recommend visiting Wikipedia for excellent information on the topic.
Conclusion
In summary, embracing medical marijuana has not only transformed my approach to managing chronic illness but has also significantly improved my role as a parent.