Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) is an increasingly diagnosed medical condition affecting long-term cannabis users. While cannabis is widely known for reducing nausea, CHS causes the opposite effect: persistent nausea, repeated vomiting, and abdominal pain.
As cannabis potency rises globally, emergency departments are reporting more CHS cases. Here’s what medical experts currently understand about this paradoxical condition.
What Is Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome?
Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome is a disorder linked to chronic, heavy cannabis use. It typically develops after years of frequent use and is characterized by cycles of severe nausea and uncontrollable vomiting.
Unlike food poisoning or stomach viruses, CHS does not resolve quickly on its own. Symptoms persist until cannabis use stops completely.
Key Symptoms of CHS
1. Early (Prodromal) Phase
- Morning nausea
- Loss of appetite
- Mild abdominal discomfort
- Continued cannabis use (often believing it helps)
2. Hyperemetic Phase (Severe Stage)
- Repeated, intense vomiting
- Severe stomach pain
- Dehydration
- Frequent emergency room visits
- Temporary relief from hot showers or baths
The hot shower behavior is considered a hallmark symptom. Many patients report compulsive hot bathing because heat temporarily reduces nausea.
3. Recovery Phase
- Symptoms stop after cannabis cessation
- Appetite and digestion normalize
- Relapse occurs if cannabis use resumes
Why Does Cannabis Cause This If It Reduces Nausea?
Cannabis is widely used for anti-nausea relief, especially in chemotherapy patients. However, long-term heavy use appears to overstimulate the body’s cannabinoid receptors.
Researchers believe CHS may involve:
- Overactivation of CB1 receptors
- Disruption of the endocannabinoid system
- THC accumulation in fat tissue
- Altered gut motility and brain signaling
The exact biological mechanism is still under investigation.
Who Is Most at Risk?
CHS is most commonly observed in:
- Daily or near-daily cannabis users
- High-THC product users
- Concentrate or vape users
- Individuals who began cannabis use in adolescence
Not all cannabis users develop CHS, but cases have increased as THC potency has risen significantly in the past decade.
How Is Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome Treated?
The only proven cure is complete cessation of cannabis use.
Supportive treatments may include:
- IV fluids for dehydration
- Anti-nausea medications
- Capsaicin cream applied to the abdomen
- Hot showers for temporary symptom relief
However, symptoms typically return if cannabis use continues.
When to Seek Medical Care
Immediate medical attention is recommended if symptoms include:
- Persistent vomiting
- Signs of dehydration
- Severe abdominal pain
- Vomiting blood
Why CHS Is Becoming More Common
Modern cannabis products often contain significantly higher THC levels than products available decades ago. Concentrates, vape cartridges, and dabs can contain THC levels exceeding 70–90%.
Medical experts believe this increase in potency may be contributing to the rise in CHS diagnoses worldwide.
Bottom Line
Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome is a real and medically recognized condition linked to chronic heavy cannabis use. While cannabis provides therapeutic benefits for many individuals, long-term high-THC exposure can produce severe gastrointestinal effects in susceptible users.
Early recognition and cessation of cannabis use remain the most effective way to resolve symptoms.
