Autism is a complex developmental disability that can disrupt a person's ability to communicate, form relationships, interact socially, explore and learn.
There are different types of ASD. Some autistic people can live independently, whereas others affected by the condition require constant care and support.
With over half the states in the U.S. legalizing marijuana for medical purposes, it’s no big surprise that cannabis is gaining a foothold as a legitimate treatment option for managing a variety of health conditions including autism.
Patients living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are eligible for treatment with medical marijuana in Pennsylvania. Compassionate Certification Centers is here to help!
Diagnosis
There is no diagnostic test for Autism. The condition is generally detected based on certain behaviors in early childhood (2-3 years). Some infants, however, may exhibit signs of autism in the first few months itself.
Causes of Autism
While, there is no specific known cause of ASD, experts believe genetics and environment may play a contributory role. Other risk factors include having an autistic sibling, older parents, very low birth weight, or being afflicted with Down syndrome, fragile X syndrome, and Rett syndrome, etc. Contrary to popular belief, there is no connection between parenting practices and vaccines in the development of autism.
Statistics to Consider
- Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states one in 59 children/young adults in the US are affected by autism. According to the American Autism Association, a person is diagnosed with ASD every 11 minutes in the nation.
- The disorder is more prevalent in boys compared to girls.
- Though autism is regarded as a lifelong condition, early diagnosis and intervention can help in alleviating symptoms and improving quality of life.
Commons Symptoms of Autism
The symptoms and severity of the disorder are known to vary widely but most autistic people display these common signs and behaviors:
- Unusual voice tone
- Poor eye contact
- Not looking or listening to people
- Resistance to cuddling
- Indifference to caregivers
- Repetitive behavior
- Delay in cognitive, social and language skills
- Overtly focused interests
- Becoming distraught by a change in routine
On observing the aforesaid symptoms caregivers must take the kids/adolescents/adults for screening process with ASD tools. If developmental problems are perceived, a second evaluation for cognitive skills, language abilities and communication challenges under professionals is vital for an official diagnosis. Patients certified to have autism as a qualifying condition for medical marijuana will then be eligible to receive cannabis for als treatment.
Qualifying Conditions of Austim
- Atypical Autism
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Infantile Autism
- Infantile Psychosis
- Kanner’s Syndrome
- Asperger’s Syndrome
- Autistic Disorder
- Active Infantile Autism
- ADNP-Related Multiple Congenital Anomalies
- Autism and Facial Port-wine Stain Syndrome
- Autism Epilepsy Syndrome due to Branched Chain Ketoacid Dehydrogenase Kinase Deficiency
- Autism Spectrum Disorder due to AUTS2 Deficiency
- Arthrogryposis Syndrome
- Autistic Disorder of Childhood Onset
- Developmental Delay with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Gait Instability
- High-functioning Autism
- Pervasive Developmental Disorder of Residual State
- Port-wine Stain of Skin
- Psychosis in Early Childhood
- Residual Infantile Autism
- Savant Syndrome
Medical Marijuana for Autism
Since there is no cure or specific remedy for the developmental disorder, people are exploring alternative methods of treatment. Medical marijuana has shown promise at managing an array of health issues, which also includes epilepsy as a viable autism treatment for adults. While there are no large-scale clinical trials to substantiate the medicinal value of cannabis for Autism there are mounting anecdotal accounts and personal experiences that support its usage. An observational study found marijuana’s main non-psychoactive compound (cannabinoid or CBD) effective and safe for treating mild to severe forms of autism. It was noted that CBD oil medication was well-tolerated and helped in managing the debilitating symptoms commonly experienced by ASD patients like insomnia, depression, tics, restlessness, anxiety or rage attacks.
Below are some of the positive changes observed in patients after they began using medical medical marijuana products to relive symptoms of autism:
- A step-up in the quality of life
- Lower frequency of depression
- Enhancement in mood
- Cannabis products improved the ability to perform daily activities.
- A drastic reduction in seizures
- Marked improvement in disruptive behavior incidents
- Improvement in concentration
- Regulation of sleep pattern
- Eases aggression in outbursts
- Improves social functioning and improves relationships
While medical marijuana help relieve symptoms, there is a need to exercise caution and consult a physician before considering medical marijuana for the disorder since there is limited research and scientific evidence to back the claims.
How to Get a Medical Marijuana Card for Autism
Due to the seriousness of the disease, many states have legalized the use of medical marijuana for Autism Spectrum Disorder. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to get your medical marijuana card:
- Register over the phone or online
- Talk to a medical marijuana doctor
- Get your medical marijuana card
Compassionate Certification Centers is here to provide you with the support, care, and guidance you need to get certified for a medical marijuana card. Schedule an appointment with us at 888-316-9085 to start your evaluation process!
