As cannabis use becomes more popular nationwide, especially among young people, there is a growing movement to educate the public about the potential risks associated with heavy and long-term marijuana use. One of the emerging concerns in the medical community is cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS), a rare condition that can cause severe nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain in chronic cannabis users.
The overall prevalence of cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) is 0.1% and is more common in young adults aged 18 to 39 years old. However, in recent years, healthcare providers have been seeing an increase in cases among teenagers and even pre-teens who use marijuana regularly. This trend is particularly alarming, as CHS can have serious implications for the affected individuals' health and well-being.
Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) is a medical condition characterized by recurrent nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain in individuals who have been using cannabis for an extended period of time. The exact cause of CHS is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to the body's response to cannabinoids, the active compounds in marijuana.
A growing number of heavy cannabis users – especially young people – are showing up in emergency rooms with prolonged vomiting due to CHS. This has put a strain on healthcare resources and has raised concerns about the long-term effects of chronic marijuana use on physical and mental health. It is crucial for healthcare providers to be aware of the symptoms of CHS and to educate patients about the risks associated with excessive marijuana consumption.
Lately, I'm seeing a lot of teens, some kids as young as 12, who are using marijuana on a daily basis. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), early initiation of cannabis use is associated with an increased risk of developing CHS later in life. This highlights the importance of prevention efforts and early intervention strategies to address substance abuse among young people.
Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, a rare condition affecting chronic and long-term marijuana users, is often misdiagnosed, said Sam Torbati, MD, at a recent medical conference. Misdiagnosis can lead to delays in treatment and unnecessary suffering for patients with CHS. Healthcare providers need to be vigilant in recognizing the symptoms of CHS and conducting thorough assessments to ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.
At ADCES 2023, Halis Akturk, MD, presented data calling attention to the risk of hyperglycemic ketosis-cannabis hyperemesis syndrome in patients with diabetes who use cannabis. This highlights the importance of considering individual risk factors and comorbidities when evaluating patients with symptoms suggestive of CHS. Healthcare providers should take a comprehensive approach to patient care and consider all possible contributing factors when assessing and treating CHS.
The differential diagnosis for a patient with an acute onset of nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain who presents to an urgent care center should include CHS. It is important for healthcare providers to take a detailed medical history, including information about the patient's cannabis use, to help guide diagnostic and treatment decisions. Early recognition of CHS can lead to better outcomes for patients and reduce the risk of complications associated with the condition.
How long does it take to develop CHS? Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome is a result of chronic cannabis use. According to medical experts, people who use marijuana regularly over a prolonged period of time are at increased risk of developing CHS. The exact timeline for the development of CHS varies from person to person, but it is important for individuals who use cannabis to be aware of the potential risks and to seek medical attention if they experience persistent symptoms of nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
