All articles tagged with #cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome
ER visits for Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS), a marijuana-related condition causing severe nausea and vomiting, are rising. Studies link CHS to higher-potency cannabis and state legalization, while Cleveland’s Marlon Crumedy launched The CHS Truth Project to educate youth about the syndrome; doctors say awareness is growing since the only current remedy is stopping marijuana use.
ER doctors are seeing more cases of cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS), including the distressing “scromiting” (screaming while vomiting), linked to long-term, high-potency cannabis use. CHS causes intense abdominal pain and vomiting, with some relief from very hot baths; cases have risen as cannabis products become more potent after legalization. The condition is still poorly understood, but quitting cannabis often helps, though cessation can be challenging, and CHS may co-occur with psychiatric conditions.
A 15-year-old developed a life-threatening brain condition, Wernicke encephalopathy, caused by thiamine deficiency from prolonged vomiting linked to cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome after cannabis use. He lost 25–30 pounds, showed cognitive and movement issues, and initial imaging missed the diagnosis. With IV and oral thiamine and cessation of cannabis, his symptoms improved within a day and he recovered; the case highlights rare neurological risks of CHS in teens and the potential for underdiagnosed thiamine deficiency.
A Mayo Clinic–Ohio State University study published in JAMA Insights warns that chronic cannabis use can trigger cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome and its severe “scromiting” episodes; with rising THC levels in cannabis products, researchers say sustained abstinence is the only proven long-term cure and abrupt quitting can trigger withdrawal, underscoring the role of addiction counseling and switching to lower-potency cannabis. The study also notes CHS-related emergency department visits rose markedly from 2016 to 2022, while the exact prevalence of scromiting remains unclear (one clinician estimates about 6% of marijuana users may experience it annually).
Recent cannabis research shows a mixed picture: safer, longer-lasting pain relief can come from tinctures, edibles, capsules, topical products, and even suppositories, offering advantages over smoking; however, long-term heavy use may trigger cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome and is linked to higher risks of heart disease and stroke. Experts note most cannabis is still smoked, underscoring the need for more research and awareness of alternative methods.
Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) is a cannabis-related condition in frequent users that causes recurrent abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting and is often misdiagnosed because tests are usually normal; diagnosis is clinical and management centers on stopping cannabis, IV fluids, and antiemetics, with some patients finding relief from hot showers or capsaicin cream, reflecting rising clinician awareness as ER visits for CHS increase.
A woman experienced severe vomiting and pain due to cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS), a condition linked to heavy marijuana use, which can only be cured by quitting cannabis.
The incidence of cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS), a condition causing severe vomiting and abdominal pain due to marijuana use, has doubled since 2017, affecting an estimated 2.75 million Americans annually. The rise is attributed to increased marijuana potency and availability. CHS can lead to life-threatening dehydration and other complications, with frequent users, especially those starting before age 16, at higher risk. Treatment involves anti-nausea medication and rehydration, and cessation of marijuana use is advised to prevent recurrence.
Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS), a condition characterized by nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, is increasingly affecting cannabis users, with emergency visits doubling in the U.S. and Canada from 2017 to 2021. The rise is linked to increased cannabis potency and accessibility due to legalization. CHS primarily affects heavy, long-term users and is thought to involve the endocannabinoid system and stress response. Diagnosis requires cannabis cessation, which can be challenging due to withdrawal symptoms. Treatment includes hydration, anti-nausea medications, and potentially quitting cannabis.