What is cannabis hyperemesis syndrome (CHS)?

CHS is a severe vomiting disorder affecting chronic marijuana users, causing intense nausea, abdominal pain, and dehydration.

Why did the WHO add a code for CHS?

The WHO added a code for CHS to help physicians identify, track, and study the condition more effectively.

Did COVID-19 impact CHS cases?

Yes, emergency room visits for CHS spiked significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic and have remained high.

Home / Health / Mysterious Vomiting Tied to Marijuana Now Official

Mysterious Vomiting Tied to Marijuana Now Official

30 Nov

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Summary

WHO officially recognizes cannabis hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) with a dedicated code.
CHS causes severe vomiting, pain, and dehydration in chronic marijuana users.
ER visits for CHS surged 650% during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mysterious Vomiting Tied to Marijuana Now Official

Global health officials have officially recognized cannabis hyperemesis syndrome (CHS), a debilitating vomiting disorder associated with chronic marijuana use. The World Health Organization has assigned a dedicated code to CHS in its diagnostic manual, enabling physicians to more accurately identify and study the condition.

CHS is characterized by severe nausea, extreme abdominal pain, and relentless vomiting, leading to dehydration and weight loss. Sufferers may experience 'scromiting'—screaming while vomiting—and in severe cases, CHS can result in heart problems, seizures, kidney failure, or death.

Data indicates a substantial rise in CHS-related emergency room visits, with a 650% increase observed from 2016 to the peak during the COVID-19 pandemic. Experts attribute this surge to factors like increased isolation, stress, and the proliferation of high-potency cannabis products, often exceeding 20% THC.