CANNABINOID HYPEREMSIS SYNDROME IS ON THE RISE
Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) is a condition that leads to repeated and severe bouts of vomiting. This is a rare condition that is attributed to frequent long-term use of cannabis. News outlets are reporting an uptick in cases in recent years.
According to Cedars-Sinai, experts are still trying to learn exactly how marijuana causes CHS in some people. Marijuana has several active substances, including THC. These substances bind to molecules found in the brain which causes the drug "high" and other effects that users feel. In the brain, marijuana helps prevent nausea and vomiting, for example in people having chemotherapy.
Your digestive tract also has a number of molecules that bind to THC and related substances. This means marijuana also affects the digestive tract. For example, the drug can change the time it takes the stomach to empty. It also affects the esophageal sphincter. One theory is that THC can accumulate in the body over time and may cause a toxicity in the gastrointestinal track and the brain.
The syndrome has 3 phases. In the prodromal phase the patient may experience morning nausea, typically without vomiting. This is followed by the hyperemesis phase, which is characterized by prolonged vomiting and abdominal pain. This phase can lead to decreased food and water intake, weight loss, and dehydration. Individuals will frequently utilize hot showers to attempt to reduce symptoms and eventually visit their primary care physician or emergency room for care during this phase. Diagnosis of CHS can be difficult as symptoms of nausea and vomiting are very broad. There is no single test to confirm this diagnosis.
The third phase is the recovery phase. The individual will typically begin to feel better during this phase. During the recovery phase, if the individual continues to use marijuana, they often repeat the hyperemesis phase. You can prevent CHS by not using marijuana in any form. Even if you've been diagnosed with CHS, by quitting use, you will not experience symptoms any more.