In the midst of positive medical tests focusing on the benefits of the little green plant, marijuana has now become the focus of another scientific study, although (if proven correct) the results will be less than positive for the little green plant. As part of a study published in JAMA Internal Medicine on November 5, researchers may have identified a possible connection between marijuana and diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a medical condition directly linked to Type-1 diabetes (T1D). According to this study, people who use cannabis are putting themselves as a higher risk of developing DKA than people who do not use the drug. In part, this research is compelling as well as upsetting for patients, particularly because some research has suggested that marijuana alleviates Type-2 diabetes (T2D). As a result, T1D patients consumed the drug under the pretense that it would help them, all the while unaware that they may have been putting their lives in greater danger than before. Let’s take a closer look and see what researchers are saying.
Dehydration and Brain Swelling
In the study “Association Between Cannabis Use and Risk for Diabetic Ketoacidosis in Adults with Type 1 Diabetes,” scientists have reinforced that patients suffering from the T1D condition are placed at an exceptionally high risk of developing diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a dangerous complication resulting in dehydration, brain swelling, coma, and (in the worst case scenario) death. So what could possibly make the situation more complicated? According to the study, T1D patients who consume cannabis are 2 times more likely to develop DKA than T1D patients who don’t use the drug.
What is Ketoacidosis?
Specifically, DKA occurs when a diabetic’s blood sugar levels are too high for too long of a time. As a result, blood acids called ketones increase to a deadly level, placing the victim’s life in incredible danger. As a result of high ketones, a T1D patient will experience nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, restrained breathing, and confusion.
Blood Sugar Spike
So why are T1D patients who smoke marijuana in so much danger? Based on the study, cannabis smokers experienced spikes in blood sugar and could not easily control these heightened levels. Even more interesting, these patients could not control the effects of their diabetes, as evidenced by strong levels of hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c). Overall, T1D patients should make sure their HbA1c levels do not exceed 6.5%.
As part of the study, 450 T1D patients (based in Colorado) took part in the survey study. Overall, 30% of these people confirmed they consumed cannabis. While 70% of participants who did not use cannabis experienced HbA1c levels of 7.6%, the marijuana users reported higher levels of 8.4%. In other words, the patients who consumed weed were placing their lives in tremendous danger.
Keep in mind, however, that (like additional studies on the drug) more research is needed to confirm the link between diabetic ketoacidosis and cannabis use.
Always remember that marijuana does not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance use disorder or a severe form of addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug abuse or addiction troubles today.
