As marijuana use becomes increasingly prevalent, a severe illness known as Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) is also on the rise. This condition affects a growing number of chronic marijuana users, causing debilitating symptoms such as severe nausea and vomiting. This article explores the details, symptoms, and phases of CHS, alongside related health concerns and trends in marijuana use.

What is Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome?

Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) is a condition that manifests in frequent users of marijuana. Despite being rare, the syndrome is becoming more common with the increased use of cannabis.

• Symptoms: Patients with CHS experience severe nausea and vomiting that can occur 20-24 times a day. These episodes can last for days or even weeks.
• Relief Methods: The only temporary relief for sufferers often comes from taking hot showers or baths.

Diagnostic Criteria for CHS

According to the National Library of Medicine, the diagnostic criteria for CHS include:

1. Long-term Cannabis Use: Often daily usage over an extended period.
2. Cyclic Nausea and Vomiting: Recurring episodes of nausea and vomiting.
3. Symptom Relief with Cessation: Symptoms improve when cannabis use is stopped.
4. Hot Showers/Baths: Temporary relief from symptoms by taking hot showers or baths.
5. Abdominal Pain: Many patients report concurrent abdominal pain.

Phases of Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome

The Connecticut state’s Adult Cannabis Use website outlines three phases of CHS:

1. Prodromal Phase: Characterised by nausea and vomiting following long-term cannabis use, often leading individuals to consume more cannabis to alleviate nausea.
2. Hyperemetic Phase: Increased nausea, abdominal pains, and vomiting triggered by continued cannabis use.
3. Recovery Phase: Symptoms decrease and eventually disappear once cannabis use is stopped, but may recur if cannabis use is resumed, restarting the cycle.

Causes and Mechanisms

Researchers are still investigating what causes CHS. Dr. Sushrut Jangi, a gastroenterologist at Tufts Medical Center, suggests it involves the endocannabinoid system, which regulates functions like sleep, mood, pain control, immune response, and appetite. Long-term cannabis use alters receptors in the brain and gut that bind to THC, the psychoactive component of cannabis.

Prevalence and Impact

• Estimated Prevalence: Dr. Jangi estimates that between 5% and 20% of chronic marijuana users will experience CHS.
• ER Visits: Following the legalisation of recreational marijuana in Colorado, ER visits for cyclic vomiting nearly doubled.

Trends in Marijuana Use

Recent data indicates a significant increase in daily marijuana use:

• Survey Data (2022): 17.7 million people reported using marijuana daily or near-daily, compared to 14.7 million who drank alcohol that often. This is a stark increase from 1992, when less than 1 million people reported near-daily marijuana use.

Legal and Health Policy Implications

• Legal Reclassification: The U.S. Justice Department has moved to reclassify marijuana as a less dangerous drug, acknowledging its lower potential for abuse compared to other Schedule I substances like heroin and LSD.

The rise of Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome highlights the complex and sometimes paradoxical effects of marijuana use. With increasing prevalence, it is crucial for both users and healthcare providers to be aware of the symptoms, causes, and treatment of CHS.

Source: Live Now Fox