Medical Marijuana for ALS in Georgia

Does ALS Qualify for Medical Marijuana in Georgia?

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, ALS, or “Lou Gehrig’s Disease” is a neurodegenerative condition that causes muscles to deteriorate and atrophy. ALS is part of a group of conditions known as motor neuron diseases, which are related to the gradual deterioration and death of motor neurons, the neurons connecting the brain with voluntary muscles. 

 

According to the Georgia Chapter of the ALS Association, over 5,000 people will be diagnosed with ALS every year. There is no cure for ALS, but there are treatment plans that can make life more comfortable for people suffering from unfortunate symptoms of the condition. 

 

One alternative medication ALS is treated with is medical marijuana, which is approved as a qualifying condition for patients diagnosed with ALS in Georgia.

 

What is Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)?

ALS impacts voluntary muscle movement, which can include daily actions like chewing, walking, talking and swallowing.

 

It is a progressive disease and symptoms of ALS are expected to worsen over time. 

 

Symptoms of ALS can include 

• Cramps 

• Difficulty chewing or swallowing. 

• Muscle twitches 

• Stiffness 

 

Because these symptoms are often common ALS is sometimes overlooked as a diagnosis, often it is not diagnosed until symptoms have progressed to advanced stages.  

 

Some people first notice ALS in their arms and legs, which is referred to as

• “Limb Onset” ALS

 

Others notice trouble with speech or swallowing, which is classified as 

• “Bulbar Onset” ALS

 

 

Regardless of where ALS originates, it progressively spreads to other areas of the body.

Unfortunately, there is no way to stop the progression of ALS. Researchers believe that a combination of genetic and environmental elements play a part in how ALS starts and progresses, but research is still ongoing.