Since New York legalized medical marijuana in 2014, it has been a cornerstone of the state’s healthcare system. With the passage of this law, many individuals suffering from serious and chronic conditions have been able to access relief through cannabis-based treatments.

But what might surprise you is that qualifying for a medical marijuana card in New York isn’t limited to just cancer patients or those with glaucoma. There are several other surprising conditions that can qualify an individual for a medical marijuana card.

In this article, we will explore these five conditions and how they may benefit from medical cannabis use. Read on to see if you or someone you know may be eligible for a medical marijuana card in New York.

5 Surprising Conditions That Qualify for a New York Medical Marijuana Card

The state of New York recognizes several debilitating and chronic conditions that may benefit from medical cannabis, from cancer to chronic pain. However, there are several other surprising conditions that may also qualify an individual for a medical marijuana card in NY:

1. Opioid Use Disorder

Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) is a chronic condition characterized by the misuse of opioids, including illicit drugs like heroin, as well as prescription pain medications. OUD can have serious physical, psychological, and social effects on an individual’s health, making it a debilitating condition to live with.

Surprisingly, New York has recognized that medical marijuana may be an effective treatment for individuals suffering from OUD. While research on the effectiveness of cannabis in treating opioid addiction is still in its infancy, there is evidence to suggest that cannabis may help individuals struggling with opioid abuse disorder in several ways.

For starters, medical marijuana can reduce opioid craving and withdrawal symptoms – both common obstacles in recovery from OUD. Additionally, some studies suggest that medical cannabis may help reduce the relapse risk for those recovering from opioid addiction.

2. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a debilitating mental health disorder that can occur after a person experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. Symptoms of PTSD include recurring nightmares and flashbacks, difficulty sleeping, hypervigilance, anxiety, irritability, and depression. The condition can have serious physical, psychological, and social effects on an individual’s life.

It may come as a surprise that New York recognizes PTSD as being treatable with medical cannabis. However, research has demonstrated that medical marijuana may be an effective treatment for those suffering from the condition, reducing symptoms such as recurring nightmares, insomnia, and hypervigilance.

Additionally, studies suggest that cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant can help to reduce anxiety levels associated with PTSD. These cannabinoids interact with serotonin receptors in the brain, helping to regulate mood and improve overall well-being.

Unlike many other medications used to treat PTSD – such as antidepressants – medical marijuana does not carry the same risk of addiction or withdrawal symptoms. This makes it an attractive option for those seeking relief from their symptoms without resorting to potentially addictive medications.

3. Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s is a degenerative brain disorder that can cause memory loss and severe cognitive decline in those suffering from it. It is estimated that over 6 million people in the United States alone are living with Alzheimer’s disease, making it one of the most common causes of dementia and disability among older adults.

It may come as a surprise to some, but New York recognizes Alzheimer’s disease as being treatable with medical cannabis. Research has shown that cannabinoids can help reduce cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer’s. Cannabinoids help protect neurons in the brain from damage and death caused by amyloid plaques, which are known to be contributing factors to the progression of this condition.

Additionally, studies have demonstrated that cannabis may effectively manage other symptoms associated with Alzheimer’s, such as agitation, aggression, and apathy. By helping to regulate mood and improve overall well-being, medical marijuana may be an invaluable tool in managing the symptoms of this condition.

4. Anorexia Nervosa

Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by a distorted body image and extreme fear of gaining weight – leading to unrestrained food restriction and severe weight loss. This can cause serious physical, psychological, and social effects on an individual’s life – making it a debilitating condition.

New York has recognized that medical marijuana may be an effective treatment for individuals suffering from anorexia nervosa. Research suggests that cannabis can help to reduce anxiety levels associated with the condition by interacting with serotonin receptors in the brain – helping to regulate mood and improve overall well-being.

Moreover, studies have also suggested that medical marijuana can help increase appetite and reduce nausea – both common side effects of anorexia. By helping to improve these symptoms, medical marijuana may be a valuable tool in managing the condition and ensuring that individuals suffering from it are able to lead healthy lives.

5. Chronic Pain

Chronic pain is defined as persistent pain that lasts more than three months or longer than the expected healing time associated with the original cause of the pain. It can have serious physical, psychological, and social effects on an individual’s life – making it difficult to manage daily tasks, let alone engage in enjoyable activities.

If you reside in New York, you may be surprised to learn that chronic pain is one of the conditions approved for medical marijuana treatment. Research suggests that marijuana may help reduce both the intensity and duration of chronic pain, potentially giving patients relief from their symptoms.

Cannabis also has an advantage over many other medications used to treat chronic pain in that it does not carry the same risk of addiction or tolerance associated with these drugs. This makes medical marijuana an attractive option for those looking for relief from their chronic pain without the worry of becoming dependent on a medication.

Start Treating Your Condition Using Medical Marijuana In New York Today

If you’re looking for relief from any of the abovementioned conditions, NY Medical Marijuana Card can help. We provide comprehensive medical cannabis evaluations and certification services – giving patients access to the medication they need in order to effectively manage their symptoms.

Don’t let your condition get in the way of living a happy, healthy life. Get in touch with our team of qualified doctors today to get started with medical marijuana in New York!