Medical Cannabis for Gastroenterological Conditions in the UK

Explore personalised treatment options tailored to your unique needs and symptoms, and take the first step towards a healthier gut.

Overview

Gastroenterological conditions refer to illnesses affecting the digestive system, including the oesophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine (colon), rectum, and anus.

These conditions are more common than many realise. For example, around 1 in every 200 people in the UK lives with some form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), alongside other digestive disorders that can significantly impact daily quality of life.

Conditions

There are many different types of gastroenterological conditions, each with their own unique symptoms and treatment options. They include:

  • Crohn’s disease
  • Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
  • Colitis
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Symptoms

Because gastroenterology refers to a range of different conditions, symptoms will likely vary from person to person and depending on the specific condition. However, there are some common symptoms to look out for. Patients may suffer from:

  • Bloating and gas
  • Recurrent constipation or diarrhea
  • Digestive issues
  • Experiencing difficulty swallowing
  • Abdominal pain
  • Vomiting
  • Sudden shifts in bowel movements

A person may experience all or none of these symptoms. For some conditions, symptoms can also be triggered by certain foods or by changes in dietary habits.

Treatments

Treatment depends largely on the exact condition being dealt with, as well as the individual’s medical history and the severity and regularity of symptoms. Some common forms of treatment for gastroenterological conditions include:

  • Endoscopic ultrasounds that examine the upper and lower GI tract and other internal organs
  • Colonoscopies
  • Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography
  • Sigmoidoscopies
  • Liver biopsies
  • Capsule endoscopies
  • Double balloon enteroscopies to examine the small intestine

Most of these procedures are designed to examine and diagnose gastroenterological conditions. From there, treatment is often based in surgery or behavioural changes, such as adopting a different diet or avoiding certain foods.

What are gastroenterological conditions?

They are illnesses affecting the digestive system, including the stomach, intestines, colon, rectum, and anus. Examples include IBD, Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis.

Can medical cannabis help with digestive disorders?

Yes. Studies suggest medical cannabis may regulate gut motility, reduce inflammation, and ease symptoms such as pain, diarrhoea, and cramping.

Is medical cannabis legal for gastroenterological conditions in the UK?

Yes. Specialist doctors in the UK can prescribe medical cannabis for eligible patients where conventional treatments have not been effective.

Do I need a GP referral to access treatment at Lyphe Clinic?

No referral is required from your GP, as long as you have a relevant diagnosed condition for which you have been prescribed two treatments. Patients can book a private consultation directly with Lyphe Clinic.

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