Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) resulting from long-term use of marijuana is characterized by nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain every few weeks to months. CHS symptoms typically begin abruptly, within 24 hours of the last cannabis use, and may be relieved by hot baths or showers, which leads some people to bathe compulsively. Hospitalized patients’ symptoms are managed with intravenous fluids and anti-nausea drugs, but the most effective treatment is to stop cannabis use altogether.

According to a report in JAMA Network, CHS now affects an estimated 2.75 million Americans each year, particularly among men between 16 and 34 years old. From 2017 to 2021, emergency room visits for CHS in the U.S. and Canada doubled. In addition to the gastrointestinal issues, CHS may also cause dehydration, acute kidney injury and low blood levels of chloride, potassium, sodium and bicarbonate. Frequent vomiting may erode tooth enamel and promote tooth loss. Rare severe complications include heart rhythm abnormalities, kidney failure, seizures and death. The rise in CHS coincides with the legalization of recreational cannabis and increases in tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) concentration in cannabis products that cause intoxication.