VTCNA Health Tips: Hydration and Managing Chronic Pain For Cannabis Users

We at Heady Vermont are partnering with the Vermont Cannabis Nurses Association to offer regular tidbits on managing health with cannabis.

As evidence starts pouring in regarding the effectiveness of cannabis for managing chronic pain, there are other self-care measures that we can use which will increase treatment effectiveness. One important measure is HYDRATION.

We have all been told that the vast majority of the human body is made up of water – all critical body fluids need replenishment. Critical fluids include not just blood, but also the fluid in the joints and along the muscles, and the fluids bathing our nervous system.

Keeping hydrated while using cannabis will help manage chronic pain symptoms.

If you suffer from neuropathy or chronic pain, becoming even slightly dehydrated will make you feel a whole lot worse. Keeping hydrated while using cannabis will help manage chronic pain symptoms. Usual recommendations are 8 – 8 oz servings of water or other non-dehydrating fluid (caffeinated/ alcoholic beverages) a day. If you have kidney or heart disease you will want to check with your health provider for adjustments.

Water Is Life!

— Mary Lacaillade, RN, BSN, CCM, Cade manager, Chronic Illness