Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, linked to long-term cannabis use, is sending many to the hospital with severe nausea and vomiting. A new study finds that early and frequent use increases the risk, and the only way to stop symptoms is quitting cannabis. More research is needed to understand why this happens. Long-term cannabis users may be unknowingly at risk for a painful and costly condition called cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, which causes severe nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
A new study from George Washington University reveals the alarming disease burden, with most sufferers requiring emergency care. The research highlights a strong link between early cannabis use and higher hospital visits, suggesting an urgent need for awareness. While emergency treatments can provide short-term relief, the only true cure is stopping cannabis use. Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome: A Growing Concern
A new study examines the impact and risk factors of cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS), a condition affecting long-term, frequent cannabis users. Researchers at George Washington University report that CHS causes recurring nausea, uncontrollable vomiting, and excruciating abdominal pain, often leading to repeated hospital visits.
“This is one of the first large studies to examine the burden of disease associated with this cannabis-linked syndrome,” says Andrew Meltzer, professor of emergency medicine at the GW School of Medicine & Health Sciences and lead author of the study. “Our findings suggest that cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome could represent a costly and largely hidden public health problem.” While the exact prevalence of the condition is unknown, many experts say that the condition is on the rise as the number of daily or near daily users of cannabis has increased in the US. Surveying the Impact of the Syndrome
To better understand the condition, Meltzer and his team surveyed 1,052 people who reported experiencing CHS. The study gathered data on their cannabis use patterns, including how often they consumed it, how long they had been using, the age they started, and whether they required emergency or hospital care.
Key findings of the study: 85% reported at least 1 emergency department visit and 44% reported at least 1 hospitalization associated with the […]
This Painful Syndrome Is Sending Cannabis Users to the ER – Are You at Risk?
