sleep apnea and medical marijuana

President Biden has joined the millions suffering from sleep apnea in seeking relief with a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAC) device. It is a potentially serious sleep disorder in which breathing stops and starts repeatedly. As a leader of the free world, it’s not surprising that Biden has had a little trouble sleeping.

One cause of sleep apnea is overweight and obesity associated with the soft tissues of the mouth and throat. During sleep, the throat and tongue muscles are more relaxed, potentially allowing soft tissue to block the airway. Other causes include anxiety, male gender, age, family history, narrowed airways, a deviated septum, and more. Loud snoring or tiredness, even after a good night’s sleep, are the main symptoms.

Medical Marijuana May Help With Sleep Problems, But Can It Help With Sleep Apnea?

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According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM), medical marijuana and synthetic marijuana extracts should not be used to treat obstructive sleep apnea.

The reason for the warning is that there is little scientific evidence that medical marijuana can help. Airway obstruction can be dangerous and life-threatening, which is why medical professionals always play it safe, and with good reason. Although a few small studies have already been done, more data needs to be collected to make sure it’s safe and helps treat the disease.

While alcohol can make sleep apnea worse, cannabis doesn’t seem to have the same problem. It is recommended not to smoke before bedtime and definitely not to use it to treat sleep apnea.

RELATED: Science says medical marijuana improves quality of life

Official White House Photo by Andrea Hanks

“Until we have more evidence of the effectiveness of medicinal cannabis for treating sleep apnea and until its safety profile is established, patients should discuss proven treatment options with a licensed medical provider at an accredited sleep facility,” said Dr. Kannan Ramar. Professor of Medicine in the Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota.

RELATED: Study: Cannabinoids (THC/CBD) beat opioids in treating chronic pain

Sleep is difficult and around 40% of people have trouble sleeping at some point. Presidents are no exception. Ronald Reagan, JFK and Bill Clinton napped daily; Reagan even scheduled his naps and took them at the same time each day. While there are pros and cons to napping, research suggests that when done properly, napping increases alertness, performance, and memory. All great benefits to be had from being the leader of the free world. Hopefully this new treatment will help Biden get a sound sleep and not see or hear the ghosts of the White House.