You may have seen trending news about a surprising and painful condition affecting regular cannabis users–Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome. People who have used marijuana for years without problems are suddenly experiencing cycles of intense nausea, stomach pain, and uncontrollable vomiting. In severe cases, the pain is so overwhelming that people scream out while getting sick, a sensation sometimes referred to as “scromiting.”
Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) is a real and increasingly diagnosed condition linked to long-term cannabis use, especially as today’s products become more potent and widely available. Understanding what CHS is, why rates are rising, and how to treat it is an important part of staying safe and informed as cannabis use continues to grow across the United States.
What is Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome?
CHS is a medical condition in which consistent or long-term cannabis use causes repeated episodes of nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. The symptoms often come in cycles. In the early stage, people may experience mild nausea or stomach discomfort, often in the morning. Over time the symptoms progress to repeated vomiting, dehydration, and severe stomach pain that sends many people to the emergency department.
Oddly, many individuals report temporary relief by taking very hot showers. There is no complete explanation for why this helps, though researchers believe heat may temporarily affect temperature receptors related to nausea and intestinal sensations.
Why does CHS happen?
The exact cause remains under investigation. Current theories suggest that chronic exposure to THC overstimulates the body’s endocannabinoid system. Over time, this may reverse marijuana’s typical anti-nausea effects and begin triggering the opposite. Genetics, potency, synthetic cannabinoids, and high-frequency use may all contribute.
Why Cases of CHS Are Increasing
In recent years, emergency departments, addiction treatment programs, and toxicology teams have seen a clear rise in CHS cases. Several forces appear to be driving this trend:
- legalization or decriminalization in many states
- increased potency of available cannabis
- rising daily and near-daily cannabis use
- growing social acceptance and lower perceived risk
- stress, anxiety, and mental health challenges that encourage repeated use
Some US health systems have reported dramatic growth in CHS diagnoses across the last decade. A number of studies indicate that frequent or heavy cannabis users are more likely to develop symptoms, and clinicians now identify CHS more reliably than they did even a few years ago. While the term “scromiting” is sometimes sensationalized, the underlying health impacts are real and can be medically dangerous if dehydration or electrolyte problems are not treated promptly.
CHS Treatment Options
There is currently only one known long-term solution for CHS: stopping cannabis use. Without cannabis in the system, the body gradually returns to normal regulation of nausea and vomiting, although this recovery process can take days or weeks depending on severity and frequency of use.
Acute CHS episodes often require medical stabilization in an emergency setting. IV fluids, nausea medications, electrolyte support, and rest are common. Hot showers may temporarily reduce symptoms, but this does not treat the underlying cause. Individuals who use cannabis daily or rely on it for anxiety, sleep, or mental health concerns may benefit from structured cannabis addiction treatment, counseling, or therapeutic support while working toward abstinence.
How to Get Help
If you or someone you care about is experiencing ongoing nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, or frequent episodes of dehydration and there is a history of regular cannabis use, it is important to talk openly with a medical provider. CHS is still frequently missed because people do not volunteer cannabis history, or because the symptoms resemble stomach flu or food poisoning.
If symptoms escalate, or if there are signs of dehydration or dizziness, visit an emergency department. Once stabilized, many people benefit from support that addresses both the physical recovery and the behavioral patterns that contributed to long-term use.
Northstar Is Here for You
If you are unsure whether cannabis is helping or harming, or if you are experiencing symptoms that sound like CHS, Northstar Recovery Center can help you sort through the signs and explore what recovery might look like. Our team understands the medical and emotional dimensions of cannabis dependence, and we provide evidence-based treatment that supports your health, your mental wellbeing, and your long-term recovery goals.
Reach out to learn more about our CHS treatment offerings today: 888-339-5756.
