Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome

But science hasn’t pinned down an exact formula that says, “X amount of cannabis over Y years always leads to CHS.” Instead, it’s more like a storm of factors that eventually converge. Unfortunately, until doctors uncovered CHS, many patients felt baffled by their symptoms. Now that this condition is better recognized, sharing a full history of marijuana use with medical providers is vital.

Clinical Diagnosis of CHS

I would like to note too that I have not experienced the hyperemesis stage since September 21′, and this is no where near as bad. Splanchnic vasodilation – THC alters blood flow, potentially contributing to nausea and abdominal pain. TRPV1 receptor overstimulation – THC activates the same receptors as capsaicin, explaining the relief from hot showers. CHS shares overlapping symptoms with many conditions, making misdiagnosis common. Because cannabis is often used as a treatment for nausea or pain, it can be mistakenly blamed for symptoms that it was intended to relieve. Stopping cannabis use is the most effective way to prevent CHS episodes and allow the body to heal.

Diagnostic Process

Then try eating crackers afterwords or personally I found fruit was the easiest thing to keep down. As a trusted Georgia addiction treatment center, we are dedicated to serving our clients through various alcohol and drug addiction programs. We have a firm belief that it is possible for YOU to achieve and sustain long-term recovery. Dr. Byron McQuirt leads works closely with our addictionologist, offering holistic, evidence-based mental health and addiction care while educating future professionals. It’s a myth that Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) isn’t real or is psychosomatic.

CHS Interview with Dr. Ethan Russo by Project CBD

CHS usually starts after years of using marijuana many times a week. Initial symptoms are feeling sick to the stomach, belly pain and the feeling like you may throw up. After about years of chronic marijuana use, patients begin to have a strong feeling of sickness, throwing up, and belly pain. This is normally when people go see a doctor to find out what is causing these problems. They start to feel better when they stop using marijuana but can feel bad if they use it again.

• A classic one is someone who has used them for years, or someone who has recently changed to a more intense version of these products (like a medical form or a higher concentration).
• One study found that 32.9% of self-reported frequent marijuana users who came to an emergency department for care met the criteria for CHS.
• It’s like a scientific treasure hunt, with researchers following every lead in the hopes of finding better ways to help CHS sufferers.

Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) is an increasingly recognized condition with perplexing symptoms.

• You can look for the tell-tale signs of CHS to diagnose yourself so you can try to relieve your symptoms, but the only real treatment is to stop using marijuana.
• Because so little is known about Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome and its causes, few treatment approaches have been developed.
• The very thing that’s supposed to bring relief becomes the source of unbearable discomfort.
• Others are exploring the use of probiotics or specific dietary interventions.

We do these to make sure that nothing really bad is happening. Patients with CVS also have times where they are feeling sick to the stomach and can also throw up for between 12 hours to about a week. This can happen when you are stressed, excited, have an infection what is alcoholism or when women have their period.

Recovery Stage

Individuals may experience a loss of appetite and subsequent weight loss. These episodes can be debilitating, often requiring emergency medical attention. The cyclical nature means that symptoms can recur after periods of improvement, particularly if chs without vomiting cannabis use continues.

It’s a serious medical problem that can cause major health issues if you leave it untreated. If you have any symptoms of severe dehydration, like dizziness, confusion and a rapid heartbeat, call 911 right away. If you need help quitting, speak to a healthcare provider or connect with your local addiction treatment services.

A typical person diagnosed with CHS might have smoked or ingested marijuana for about 19 years. Many only get a correct diagnosis after making multiple emergency room visits for unstoppable vomiting. It’s worth noting that you don’t always need that full 19-year timeline, as some people can develop CHS sooner, especially if they’re using especially potent cannabis or consuming it in large amounts.

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