Wondering how to talk to a physician about marijuana use? Are you one of the almost two hundred million residents in the United States that is living in any of the states approved for medical marijuana? And since the 2018 Midterm election, more states are climbing onboard to provide legalized weed to people who suffer from various medical conditions. It is a fact that medical marijuana use helps to treat certain conditions – and even physicians are jumping onboard.
There are still some physicians who do not yet grasp the amazing effects of marijuana use and so it might be difficult to speak to them about it. However, if you are an avid stoner and a medical marijuana patient, you can actually educate and inform your personal physician about marijuana use and its positive effect on your health. We have put together a list of top suggestions that you could consider when talking to your physician about your marijuana use. Let's discover them.
Being Honest
It is best to be very honest when you are talking to a physician because that is the only way that you will get the appropriate assistance. Try not to be coy or anything like that and do not underestimate the fact that your physician could see right through any holes in your story. Just be direct and forthright. Provide your personal physician with the most accurate details. Remember now that cannabis use is legal in many states and more states are being added during each election. And so, if you live in a state that has legalized marijuana and you are using it legally, you do not have to fear being discovered. Just have a frank discussion with your doctor and as long as you are clear and direct, the conversation could go very well. In fact, a good physician is always an advocate for his or her patient. Sharing your marijuana use with your physician is a good way to build on your relationship. There are some important details that your doctor might need to know such as frequency of your marijuana use, type of strain, and if you are taking any other medications.
Treating Your Medical Condition
Discuss any medical ailments that you might have, which goes to the reason why you might be using marijuana as treatment. This is especially important, if you are a medical marijuana patient involved in the state program. Some doctors would love to know more about the alternative method that you are using to cure your medical condition. This might even be a catalyst and opening for the doctor to want to learn more. Make sure you know which qualifying medical conditions are allowed in the state's medical marijuana program so that your doctor can see that you are well informed.
No Side Effects
Marijuana use is usually void of side effects, even when you are taking prescribed medication, but your doctor will be able to let you know whether it is true in your case or not. The science of endocannabinoid is not a topic that doctors learn in medical school and unless your doctor does research, he or she might believe the stigma associated with marijuana use and might seek to find the side effects of marijuana as is done when a doctor prescribes drugs. Let your doctor be aware of your marijuana use, your level of tolerance, the effect it has on you and how you manage to operate in your daily life while smoking weed. Your physician might be very impressed.
The Consumption Method
There are some physicians who will tell patients not to smoke a joint and might recommend a healthier style of consuming weed. But unless you discuss your marijuana use with your doctor, then you might not receive such instructions. A doctor might suggest using vaporization methods, especially if the patient has lung issues. Other consumption methods include infused drinks, tinctures, patches, pills, topical creams and edibles.
Final Summary
In the grand scheme of things, the relationship you have with your doctor is going to depend on whether you feel comfortable in discussing your marijuana use or not. So, before you do so, it is best to develop a closer relationship, but once you do, remember that your doctor could be an advocate for alternative methods of treatment. It all boils down to education and being informed.
