Gout is a common type of arthritis that affects millions of people in the United States. People with gout have a host of uncomfortable symptoms and the condition can worsen over time. The good news is that the inflammation and pain caused by gout is linked to the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the body. That means people can often find relief from medical cannabis or CBD products.
What is gout?
Gout is a complex condition that includes sudden pain, swelling and inflammation, and other symptoms that affect the joints. It can affect several joints in the body, but it is most commonly found in the big toe. This condition is cased by arthropathy, a joint disease, and is difficult to treat without medical intervention. Some people suffer from gout that is so severe that they cannot walk or get around easily.
Gout is considered to be one of the main forms of arthritis and can cause recurring joint pain in those who have it. Gout also involves the deposit of uric acid crystals in the joints (which happens as an immune response), which makes it different than other forms of arthritis. Gout spikes can happen at any time and the toes, ankles, and knees are the most commonly affected joints.
Common symptoms of gout
Gout causes a host of symptoms in those who suffer from the condition. Although they can vary from one case to the next, the most common symptoms include:
- Joint pain
- Discomfort in the joints and related extremities
- Inflammation in the joints and surrounding area
- Limited range of motion as the condition progresses over time
Although there is no cure, dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, and medications can all help with this condition, as can medical marijuana. People have found that when they are experiencing these symptoms and they consume cannabis, they experience relief from pain, inflammation, and other bodily stresses.
What causes gout?
As mentioned, gout is caused by a disease of the joints known as arthropathy. This disease can attack at any age, although it is typically seen in older adults. The uric acid crystals depositing themselves in the joints happens as an inaccurate immune response. Some conditions can also impact the body’s ability to remove uric acid, such as thyroid and blood diseases. This can lead to gout or an early onset for those who were already more at risk.
Unlike many conditions, the cause of gout is known and understood. The treatment and cure options, however, are less obvious and it has taken some trial and error to figure out the best way to help patients.
Can marijuana help with gout pain?
Medical marijuana is one option to help alleviate the pain and discomfort of gout. Strains that offer pain relief and help with nerve relaxation will typically be the most effective, but everyone will have a different preference. Be sure to look for the types of marijuana that have effects like pain relief, muscle relaxation, and even a bit of euphoria, because after all that pain, it will be nice to be in a good head space for a little while.
You can even ask your local budtender to help you find the best strains and marijuana products to alleviate your gout pain and other symptoms. Speaking of which, let’s take a look at some of the best strains and products, including those with CBD and THC.
What are the best strains for gout?
As mentioned, strains that relieve pain and cause relaxation in the body are going to be the best choice for gout. You can find marijuana products that include THC, as well as CBD for gout that gives you the symptom relief without the mental euphoria and other effects. Depending on the product that you choose, you will be able to select from a few different products and strains.
Unlike marijuana that is THC-based, CBD products aren’t normally named for strains. They are simply formulated based on the benefits and relief that they provide and sold by their intended use. For example, CBD for pain relief and inflammation is ideal for gout. Keep reading to learn more about which products are best for this condition.
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