CHS Symptoms: Signs, Stages, Causes & Treatment for Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome
The official cause of death was dehydration due to cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome. He was not a daily smoker, and he had been smoking on and off for about 3 years before he developed symptoms. Brian was also experiencing symptoms even after he had quit smoking, which caused us to doubt the diagnosis further. We had never heard of marijuana causing nausea or vomiting and were only familiar with its various health benefits, so we did not believe that CHS was what Brian had. The doctor said that the muscle contraction was due to an anxiety attack and that Brian was severely dehydrated. Another doctor asked Brian if he smoked marijuana, and he said that he did.
How can I prevent CHS?
It’s important to note that each individual’s recovery timeline can vary; some may recover faster or slower than others. Patience, self-care, and professional guidance can make a significant difference in regaining health and wellness. As it progresses, the cycle of nausea, vomiting, dehydration, diarrhea, and abdominal pain becomes more frequent, and patients may attempt to self-medicate. Some patients increase https://ecosoberhouse.com/ their cannabis use, believing the anti-emetic benefits it provides will ease their symptoms when, in fact, it will only increase them. Many find cannabis an effective treatment for nausea and vomiting. Ironically, cannabis use is also the cause of a condition called Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS), where nausea and frequent vomiting are the primary symptoms.
How Is Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome Treated?
Most people with CHS who stop using cannabis have relief from symptoms within 10 days. It’s uncomfortable but typically not dangerous for otherwise healthy individuals; monitor mood and sleep, and seek help if you’re struggling or have underlying conditions. Symptoms commonly start within 4–24 hours after the last nicotine use, peak around day 2–3, then gradually ease over the next 2–4 weeks.

How can I prevent cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome?
- Individuals who have used cannabis at least weekly since adolescence seem most at risk.
- Right now, Kayser says, it seems like the only way to permanently avoid symptoms once you’ve developed the syndrome is to stop consuming cannabis.
- Recognizing CHS symptoms and seeking timely medical advice is vital, as early intervention can significantly enhance patient outcomes.
- During this phase, individuals may experience morning nausea, occasional abdominal discomfort, and an unusual reliance on cannabis as a means to relieve these symptoms.
Whether you’re a regular cannabis user or simply curious about the effects of cannabis on health, having a better understanding of CHS is something everyone can benefit from. Researchers are still exploring why cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) occurs. One theory suggests that long-term cannabis use disrupts the body’s digestive balance, leading to nausea and vomiting. As cannabis use becomes more widespread, more people are beginning to report these unusual symptoms. In some cases, long-term cannabis addiction can heighten the risk of CHS and its complications. The full effects of chronic cannabis use on the digestive system and brain are still being studied, but frequent users should Alcohol Use Disorder be aware of CHS as a potential consequence.
Treatments for Alcohol Use Disorder
I have some meds to help with that thankfully but it only works to a certain extent. I am terrified to go anywhere how long does chs last after quitting or do anything because “what if”.. Ultimately, Vakharia has real concerns about the people using CHS as an excuse to demonize all cannabis use. Whatever you do, it’s also important to make sure that you replenish the many fluids you have undoubtedly lost with all that vomiting.
Can CBD products without THC cause cannabis hyperemesis syndrome?
In some rare cases, those with severe symptoms during the hyperemesis phase may require hospitalization, where they may receive treatment for dehydration or stomach inflammation. There are a variety of ways to alleviate symptoms of cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, but the most important step is to stop all cannabis consumption. Cannabis cessation is recommended as the primary treatment for CHS, as symptoms usually clear up shortly afterwards. Diagnosing CHS often involves recognizing the link between symptoms and heavy cannabis use. Risk factors include frequent use over many years, which can increase tolerance and prompt users to consume more, unknowingly risking adverse reactions. It’s essential to seek medical care immediately if you have recurrent vomiting.
- When you quit alcohol after using it consistently, your body spends about a week to a week and a half adjusting to its absence.
- Overall, our understanding of it is limited by marijuana’s legal status, experts tell Inverse.
- They will become less intense, and symptoms will disappear one by one.
CHS Recovery Timeline

Patients often experience these symptoms in cycles, with periods of relief followed by intense flare-ups. The severity of vomiting can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, which may necessitate urgent medical care. In the evolving landscape of cannabis consumption, Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) has emerged as a significant public health concern, particularly among chronic users. This complex condition, characterized by severe nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, can often go misdiagnosed due to its overlapping symptoms with other gastrointestinal disorders. Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) happens when you have cycles of nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain after using cannabis (marijuana) for a long time. People with CHS often find temporary relief from these symptoms by taking hot baths and showers.
This underscores the importance of effective treatment options and their positive implications for patient care. Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) presents a unique set of symptoms that can be quite distressing. These include intense nausea, frequent vomiting, abdominal discomfort, and an unusual urge to bathe.