(IBS) Irritable bowel syndrome (AKA as spastic colon) is a common disorder that affecting approximately 20 % of Canadians, predominantly women. There is no known cause and as of yet, there are no effective treatments are available.
IBS can cause:
- Painful lower abdominal cramping
- Gas
- Abdominal pain
- Bloating
- Diarrhea alternating with Constipation
The symptoms of IBS are similar to with other diseases such as: Crohn’s, Ulcerative colitis, Diverticulitis, and even Colorectal cancer, so it is imperative for a person experiencing these symptoms to consult their health care provider for a proper diagnosis. IBS is a chronic disease but the symptoms aren’t always present, long term management of IBS is needed .
Some people can control their symptoms by managing diet, lifestyle and stress, but for others medication may be needed. Unfortunately the drugs that are available such as, anticholinergics and antispasmodics such as, Bentyl (dicyclomine) and Imodium (loperamide). are not that effective. Fortunately, IBS does not increase a patients colorectal cancer risk, or cause changes in the bowel, but it does affect a patients quality of life!
How can medicinal Cannabis help? A 2003 (Italian) study demonstrated that THC, the psychoactive cannabinoid found in Cannabis, reduced intestinal motility (spontaneous movement) in the subjects and was effective in alleviating colonic spasms and abdominal pain in IBS sufferers.
Watch short informational video re: Treating IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) with medicinal Cannabis
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