When it binds to the said receptors in the brain, it leads to a high or a rush of pleasurable feelings. Now, these cannabinoid receptors are also present in the digestive tract of the body. Over time, cannabis use changes the way in which the molecules present in the digestive tract respond, leading to CHS.
Mental Health Resources
- If you are experiencing CHS symptoms, the best thing you can do is to stop cannabis use and seek medical care immediately.
- She subsequently responded to treatment with intravenous haloperidol and topical capsaicin.
- Other theories behind rising cases include the widespread legalization and cultural acceptance of cannabis, as well as the higher tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content in modern marijuana, experts told the NewsHour.
- Although this information comes from case reports, doctors can use these criteria to diagnose the condition more quickly.
- This illness poses potential health risks with the quickly changing drug.
Afterwards, patients will enter the recovery phase, which may last for weeks or months. During this time, symptoms subside and patients will regain their appetite. If a patient consumes cannabis again after recovering from CHS, there is a high potential that symptoms will return and they will re-enter the prodromal phase of the illness. If patients present after a protracted course of nausea and vomiting, there may be electrolyte derangements, ketonuria, or other signs of dehydration. If patients deny cannabis use but suspicion remains high, a urine drug screen should be considered. Imaging should be avoided, especially in the setting of a benign abdominal examination, as there are no specific radiological findings suggestive https://nudem.org/brain-fog-after-quitting-alcohol-causes-duration/ of the diagnosis.
What are the symptoms of cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome?
- These foods/beverages are mostly acidic, but relationships between them and CHS have not been studied scientifically, although the co-use of weed and alcohol is well-known, the study authors said.
- While marijuana withdrawal isn’t life-threatening like alcohol or benzodiazepine withdrawal can be, the symptoms can be extremely uncomfortable and often lead people to relapse.
- It is believed that prolonged marijuana use leads to overstimulation of the body’s endocannabinoid system, which is involved in regulating functions like mood, appetite, and gastrointestinal processes.
- If willing, patients should be referred to a substance abuse rehabilitation center.
- Experience shows that cannabis does not cause addiction or lead to death.
Additionally, cannabinoids can have indirect effects by modulating the brain-gut axis, which plays a significant role in the perception of nausea and vomiting. This complex interplay between the cannabinoid system and the GI system can lead to the development of CHS in susceptible individuals. The most effective treatment for Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome is the cessation of marijuana use. Unfortunately, the psychological and physical dependency on marijuana can make quitting challenging for many individuals. In these cases, addiction treatment programs can provide the necessary support for successful recovery.
Long-Term Behavioral Strategy for CHS Treatment
If you do use cannabis, quitting can ward off future episodes of CHS. Symptoms will usually improve after 1 or 2 days, as long as you don’t use cannabis during this time. This article will explain the causes of CHS and the available treatment options. Our men-only program creates a safe space where you can be vulnerable, explore the root causes of your marijuana use, and connect with others who understand your experience. Whether you’re experiencing CHS or struggling with marijuana dependence and withdrawal, breaking free requires commitment and often professional support.
The causes of cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome are not exactly known. One running theory is that cannabis changes how molecules in the digestive tract respond, as cannabinoid receptors are present in the digestive tract as well and are affected by cannabis use. There is also another theory, which says that CHS syndrome is the outcome of the overstimulation of the receptors present in the endocannabinoid system. Seeking professional help from an addiction treatment center is essential for those who suffer from Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS), particularly because of the deep connection between CHS and chronic marijuana use. Although some individuals may attempt to quit on their own, addiction treatment centers offer comprehensive care and support that greatly increase the likelihood of long-term recovery and symptom relief.
Who is at Risk for Developing Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS)?
Complications can include severe dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, which can lead to kidney injury, heart-rhythm abnormalities, and seizures. If you need help quitting cannabis, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration how long does it take to recover from cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome offers a 24/7 helpline in English and Spanish. A representative can refer you to local treatment facilities, support groups, and community-based organizations. The researchers found that 32.9 percent of the participants reported having experienced symptoms of CHS in the past. After stopping cannabis use, symptoms generally resolve within days or months. The prodromal phase can last for months, or even years in some cases.
- GeneReviews staff has selected the following disease-specific and/or umbrellasupport organizations and/or registries for the benefit of individuals with this disorderand their families.
- By increasing awareness and understanding of CHS, healthcare providers can better support patients and reduce the frequency of emergency department visits linked to cannabis-related issues.
- Many people with CHS are initially misdiagnosed with Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome (CVS), a similar condition.
- It takes time and takes around several months, but it could even take years.
- Mutations in LYST are causative of Chediak-Higashi syndrome, presenting molecularly with enlarged lysosomes and LROs.
No animal studies were identified that addressed diagnosis or treatment. There were 88 case reports and 8 case series of four or more patients. Our search did not yield any randomized trials assessing the diagnosis, pathophysiology, or treatment of CHS. Given that evidence statements are based primarily on case reports and case series, the vast majority of evidence is considered limited. Therefore, limited evidence ratings should not be misconstrued as negative clinical findings but, rather, that there are no higher-level studies to qualify the statement as higher-level evidence. The primary findings for each category are summarized in the following sections.
The best and only way to prevent or reduce your risk for CHS is to avoid or quit marijuana use. One study looking at Reddit posts on the subject found that spicy food, greasy food, coffee, black tea, and alcohol were frequently mentioned as CHS triggers. These foods/beverages are mostly acidic, but relationships between them and CHS have not been studied scientifically, although the co-use of weed and alcohol is well-known, the study authors said. Your doctor may ask you questions, like how long you’ve been drug addiction treatment using cannabis and what type of products you normally use.
An expert consensus treatment guideline is provided to assist with diagnosis and appropriate treatment of CHS. Clinicians and public health officials should identity and treat CHS patients with strategies that decrease exposure to opioids, minimize use of healthcare resources, and maximize patient safety. Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) appears in some chronic cannabis users. It presents as repeated nausea and vomiting to the point where it endangers you and your wellbeing. If you notice early signs of CHS, consider consulting a healthcare professional.
Risk to Family Members
The reviewers assigned each included article to nonexclusive groups of diagnosis, pathophysiology, or treatment. Relevant study characteristics were abstracted including study design and primary findings. Whatever the causes, the longer-term consequences of CHS can far exceed the lengthy stretches of intense discomfort.
Can You Die from Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome?
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. The pain is usually around the belly button and can get better with hot shower/baths. Some patients use hot water bags across the center of their belly and can burn the skin if done a lot. If you have CHS and don’t stop using, your symptoms like nausea and vomiting are likely to come back.