Prefer to listen? Play the audio version below:

 

 

If you’ve ever used marijuana, you probably know that it can make you hungry. The “munchies” are a common side effect of marijuana, making people hungry and crave sweet treats or savory foods.

However, in some people, long-term marijuana use can have a near opposite effect. Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) is a rare but serious condition that affects a small portion of long-term cannabis users. The condition can make people experience severe bouts of vomiting that are relieved by taking a hot bath or shower.

What is Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS)?

Despite cannabis being widely known for its anti-nausea properties, CHS paradoxically causes persistent vomiting in certain individuals who use cannabis frequently.

CHS is still not fully understood, but research suggests it primarily occurs in individuals who have been using cannabis for several years on a regular basis. The symptoms of CHS can be debilitating and often lead people to seek medical care due to dehydration and severe discomfort.

Understanding the Cause of CHS

The exact cause of CHS is not completely understood, but researchers believe it is linked to how cannabinoids affect the body’s endocannabinoid system. While cannabis is known to interact with this system to regulate nausea, appetite, and pain, chronic and excessive cannabis use can actually have the opposite effect in some individuals.

One of the leading theories is that long-term cannabis use overstimulates cannabinoid receptors in the brain and gut, leading to disruptions in digestion and an increase in nausea and vomiting. 

Another factor could be cannabis’s impact on the hypothalamus, which controls body temperature and nausea responses.

Signs & Symptoms of Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome

CHS develops in three stages: the prodromal phase, the hyperemetic phase, and the recovery phase. Each phase has distinct symptoms and can last for varying lengths of time.

Prodromal Phase

The prodromal phase is the early stage of CHS and can last for months or even years. Symptoms include:

• Mild nausea, particularly in the morning
• Occasional stomach discomfort
• Fear of vomiting, but without actually vomiting
• Increased cannabis use in an attempt to relieve nausea

During this phase, many people don’t recognize that cannabis is the cause of their symptoms. As a result, they often continue or even increase their cannabis use, believing it will help with their nausea since cannabis is regularly thought to do so. However, continuing to use cannabis during the prodromal phase will cause the condition to progress.

Hyperemetic Phase

The hyperemetic phase is the most intense stage of CHS, characterized by:

• Severe and persistent nausea
• Repeated episodes of uncontrollable vomiting
• Intense stomach pain
• Dehydration from excessive vomiting
• Weight loss due to an inability to keep food down
• Relief from symptoms by taking hot showers or baths

This phase often leads people to seek emergency medical care due to dehydration, malnutrition, and severe discomfort. Many individuals report compulsively taking hot showers, as this seems to temporarily alleviate symptoms.

The word “hyperemetic” comes from “hyperemesis gravidarum” which is a form of vomiting that occurs during pregnancy.

Recovery Phase

The recovery phase begins once cannabis use is stopped. Symptoms gradually improve, and the body starts to return to normal. During this phase, individuals experience:

• Relief from nausea and vomiting
• Return to normal eating habits
• Regained weight and hydration
• Improved overall health and well-being

Most people recover completely within days to weeks after quitting cannabis, but symptoms can return if cannabis use resumes. Because CHS is triggered by chronic cannabis use, the only long-term solution is to stop using cannabis products completely.

Diagnosis, Treatment, and Relief of Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome

Diagnosing CHS can be challenging because its symptoms mimic those of other gastrointestinal disorders, such as cyclic vomiting syndrome (CVS) or gastritis. Not only that, but the condition is rare, and some people are afraid to be honest with their healthcare providers about their substance use. Additionally, there is no specific test for CHS, so doctors rely on a combination of medical history, symptoms, and by ruling out other conditions.

How is it Diagnosed?

The following symptoms are used to make a diagnosis of CHS:

• A history of chronic cannabis use (typically for several years, at least weekly or daily).
• Recurrent episodes of nausea and vomiting, often severe and resistant to typical anti-nausea medications.
• Relief from hot showers or baths, which is a key distinguishing feature of CHS.
• Exclusion of other potential causes, such as infections, gallbladder disease, or gastrointestinal disorders.
• Weight loss and dehydration from prolonged vomiting episodes.

Because many people with CHS do not initially recognize that cannabis is the cause, they may undergo multiple medical tests and treatments before reaching a diagnosis.

Symptom Relief

Interestingly, many people with CHS find relief through hot showers or baths. Heat seems to activate specific receptors in the body that counteract the nausea triggered by cannabis. While this provides temporary relief, it does not treat the underlying condition.

Additionally, since vomiting leads to dehydration, sipping small amounts of water or electrolyte-rich drinks can help prevent complications.

Professional Treatment

For those experiencing severe CHS symptoms, medical treatment may be necessary. This often involves IV fluids, anti-nausea medications, and nutritional counseling. However, the most effective and only long-term solution for CHS is to completely stop cannabis use.

Once cannabis is eliminated from the body, symptoms typically resolve within days to weeks, and most people recover fully. However, if cannabis use resumes, symptoms will likely return.

Find Treatment for Marijuana Addiction Now

If you or a loved one are struggling with marijuana addiction, it’s important to understand the risks you’re vulnerable to and what your treatment options are. At Moving Mountains Recovery, we can help marijuana users detox safely, address the root cause of their substance misuse, and begin on the road to recovery. 

To learn more about our treatment programs or get started with a confidential, risk-free assessment, please contact us today!