Sleep Disorders

Sleep Disorders affect up to 40% of Canadians and can lead to serious health risks over time. Sleep, like eating healthy and exercising, is a crucial component in your body and brain’s ability to function normally. “Long working days, social and family responsibilities, irregular shift work and illness can lead to self-imposed sleep restriction, while an untreated or undiagnosed physiological condition may cause a chronic disorder that disrupts the quantity or quality of sleep” said Dr. Frank Ryan, a consultant to the Sleep Disorders Program at UBC Hospital.

Sleep disorders is an umbrella term which encompasses the following conditions:

  • Insomnia
  • Restless Leg Syndrome
  • Sleep Apnea
  • Narcolepsy
  • Chronic Fatigue
  • Low Energy
  • Nightmares

Traditional Treatment for Sleep Disorders

Traditional treatments for sleep disorders generally include a pharmacological sleep medication, whether it be over the counter or prescribed. Sedative medications are used to help individuals fall asleep and stay asleep but are often associated with some hefty side effects. These side effects may include feelings of sleepiness upon waking, dizziness, and dry mouth and many individuals are seeking alternatives to these harsh medications.

Medical Cannabis and Sleep Disorders

Although medical cannabis research is in its infancy, the applications of cannabis for sleep disorders is promising. There have been numerous subjective reports on how cannabis is beneficial to improving sleep quality and duration and many individuals are turning to cannabis to achieve better sleep.

Product selection is extremely important when using medical cannabis for sleep. There are two main varieties of cannabis, indica and sativa, and they have very different effects. Cannabis sativa is well known for its energizing and uplifting effects and is great for daytime use. Sativa strains would be an excellent choice for individuals who suffer from daytime fatigue due to lack of sleep. Cannabis indica is known for its sleep-inducing qualities and relaxation effects. Indica strains are more appropriate for night-time use and help to relax the muscles and mind, producing a deeper sleep. 

Apollo patient educators are available to help individuals choose the product that is right for them. Educators will create individualized treatment plans and help individuals select an appropriate Licensed Producer that offers the products they need. 

Every person has unique sleep and sleep-related issues and as such, what works for one individual, may not work for another. That is why Apollo offers a one-on-one education session tailored to the individual to help find strains of cannabis that are appropriate to the symptoms which medical cannabis is being used for.

Learn more here from our educational video series on Medical Cannabis & Sleep.

Find out if medical cannabis is right for you.

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