What is CHS? Maryland doctor explains an illness linked to chronic marijuana use CBS Baltimore

Hyperemesis cannabis syndrome is directly linked to long-term cannabis use, while CVS is not related to cannabis. People with CVS may have other triggers like migraines or stress, but their symptoms do not improve by stopping cannabis use, unlike those with CHS. Persistent vomiting can lead to dehydration, in addition to electrolyte imbalances that can have an impact on the heart and kidneys. Frequent vomiting can also cause damage to the esophagus, causing ulcers or tears, making symptoms more unpleasant to deal with. This can result in sufferers needing hospital treatment, and can make eating and drinking difficult. Not all cannabis users will develop CHS, while for others it can take years for symptoms to develop.

  • Nausea and vomiting tend to return if they start using marijuana again.
  • Therefore, long-term cessation of cannabis is recommended to prevent future flare-ups.
  • Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) is a condition that affects regular cannabis users.
  • Treatments include intravenous fluids for dehydration, anti-nausea medications, and pain relief for abdominal discomfort.

Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome FAQs

  • In the world of medical research, it is common that scientific articles are held behind a paywall.
  • One possible explanation for this is called “gate control theory,” which postulates that to some extent, the brain can regulate how much pain it perceives.
  • But too many of them may increase your risk for dehydration due to sweating.
  • The hot temperature affects a part of the brain called the hypothalamus, which regulates temperature and throwing up.

The only way to stop CHS and its symptoms is to completely quit using cannabis. Most people who quit using cannabis experience no more CHS symptoms within 10 days, but sometimes it may take weeks or months for symptoms to stop. Symptoms of CHS likely won’t return if you’ve completely stopped using cannabis. The only treatment that can get rid of CHS symptoms for good is to stop using cannabis completely.

How Does It Affect the Body?

what is chs

For those who accept the diagnosis and try to quit, addiction often makes abstinence a major challenge, prolonging the cycle of illness, Carlini said. Over the past decade, ERs have seen a surge in regular tokers showing up with sudden, stomach-churning attacks that leave them doubled over in pain. The symptoms typically last a few weeks, though the throwing up should ease up in a day or two. The best and only way to prevent or reduce your risk for CHS is alcoholism symptoms to avoid or quit marijuana use.

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what is chs

There is also another theory, which says that CHS syndrome is the outcome of the overstimulation of the receptors present in the endocannabinoid system. Some clinicians also use topical capsaicin, which may help relieve abdominal pain. The only definitive cure is to stop using the drug, as symptoms generally resolve during the recovery phase. Challenges arise because patients may be reluctant to stop marijuana use or are what is chs unaware that using this very drug is the cause of their symptoms, risking repeated cycles. If you need help quitting, speak to a healthcare provider or connect with your local addiction treatment services.

what is chs