By SONAM RANA
A Growing Concern
As cannabis becomes more widely accepted for both recreational and medicinal use, discussions around its potential health risks are often overlooked. While many associate cannabis with relaxation or pain relief, there is a lesser-known, but severe, condition linked to frequent use: Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS).
CHS is a paradoxical reaction where chronic cannabis users experience severe, repeated bouts of vomiting, abdominal pain, and nausea. Despite its serious nature, many users remain unaware of this risk.
What is Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS)?
CHS is a condition that affects long-term, frequent cannabis users, typically those who have used cannabis daily or near-daily for several months or years.
Key Symptoms:
- Recurrent, intense nausea
- Cyclical vomiting lasting hours or days
- Severe abdominal pain
- Temporary relief through hot showers or baths
- Dehydration due to prolonged vomiting
Interestingly, many people with CHS continue using cannabis, believing it will relieve their nausea—ironically worsening their condition.
Why Does CHS Happen?
The exact cause of CHS remains unclear, but researchers suspect it involves disruption of the body’s endocannabinoid system. This system regulates various functions such as mood, pain, digestion, and appetite.
In people with CHS, chronic THC exposure (the psychoactive compound in cannabis) may:
- Overstimulate cannabinoid receptors
- Alter gut motility and digestive function
- Interfere with the brain’s vomiting control centers
Some theories suggest a genetic component makes certain individuals more vulnerable.
Who is at Risk?
CHS usually develops in people who:
Use cannabis regularly and heavily
Have been using for months or years
Are between ages 18 to 40
It has been reported across both recreational and medical cannabis users, even among those using cannabis for nausea relief.
The Danger of Delayed Diagnosis
Many doctors and patients are unfamiliar with CHS, causing frequent misdiagnosis. It’s often mistaken for:
- Food poisoning
- Stomach flu
- Cyclic vomiting syndrome
- Anxiety-related nausea
Some patients undergo unnecessary tests, ER visits, or surgeries before CHS is recognized.
Without proper diagnosis, the vomiting can become life-threatening, leading to:
- Dehydration
- Kidney failure
- Electrolyte imbalances
How is CHS Treated?
Immediate Care:
- IV fluids to treat dehydration
- Anti-nausea medications (though often ineffective)
- Hot baths or showers for temporary relief
Long-Term Solution:
Stopping cannabis use completely is the only proven cure for CHS. Symptoms usually resolve within days to weeks after quitting.
Why Should Cannabis Users Be Warned?
1. Prevalence is Rising:
With more people using high-potency cannabis products, cases of CHS are increasing globally.
2. Lack of Awareness:
Many cannabis users, especially those using it for medical reasons, are unaware that it can cause such severe vomiting.
3. False Perception of Safety:
Cannabis is often seen as “natural” or “safe,” but chronic use carries hidden risks.
4. Potential for Long-Term Harm:
Ignoring CHS can lead to repeated hospitalizations and serious health complications.
Prevention and Harm Reduction
For Regular Users:
Be aware of CHS symptoms, especially if you’ve been using cannabis frequently for months or years.
Recognize that vomiting relieved by hot showers may signal CHS.
Reduce cannabis use or consider breaks to monitor symptoms.
For Medical Patients:
Consult a doctor if using cannabis for nausea or pain leads to unexplained vomiting.
Discuss alternative treatments.
Conclusion: Knowledge is Power
Cannabis legalization and normalization bring many benefits—but also new responsibilities. Raising awareness about Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome is essential for public health.
Whether for recreation or medicine, users deserve clear, honest information about the full range of cannabis effects—including this serious, often-overlooked vomiting syndrome.
If you or someone you know experiences unexplained nausea, vomiting, or relief from hot showers alongside cannabis use, it’s crucial to seek medical advice—and consider stopping cannabis use altogether.
Checkout our another posts:
https://amarsonpost.com/is-love-lost-dating-app-giants-bumble-and-match-face-major-shakeups/
https://amarsonpost.com/a-decade-of-neglect-halifax-tenant-exposes-broken-housing-system/
https://amarsonpost.com/from-ploughshares-to-paper-promises-canadas-5-defense-pledge-in-perspective/