Does Cannabis Make You Throw Up? What to know about Cannabis Hyperemeis Syndrome.
- Kim May
- 3d
- 3 min read
Most people don’t think of cannabis as something that can make us sick.
Especially considering it is frequently taken to improve nausea. Since cannabis has activity at a variety of receptors, it has a unique ability to be both a pro- and anti-emetic (something that can make us vomit and something that can ease vomiting.)
Cannabis is lauded for its pharmaceutical potential, and most people see it as completely benign. However, like most things in life, cannabis is not so simple.
Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS)
When CHS occurs, it is usually with people who have used cannabis long-term. People experience nausea, abdominal cramps, and vomiting that is characterized as painful. Hyperemesis means severe vomiting.
Interestingly almost everyone who experiences CHS finds hot showers or baths as the most effective relief from the symptoms.
Scientists are unsure of the exact cause, but the current hypothesis is that heavy, long-term THC use may cause an overstimulation of the endocannabinoid receptors. This could then cause disruptions to the body’s ability to control nausea and vomiting.
It is believed that the syndrome itself has developed out of cannabis plants becoming increasingly stronger over time. Since the 1990’s, there has been a trend of higher levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and a reduction of cannabidiol (CBD). Thus, a more potent experience for the user.
Symptoms of cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS)
When symptoms occur, it is typically following prolonged THC use and may include:
Nausea that is persistent
Stomach pain
Repeated vomiting and heaving; numerous times per hour
Subsequent fear of throwing up.
This will often last for days or even up to a week. Then, people will often feel better or back to normal for a period of time before it starts up again.
Most people experiencing CHS will report that hot showers or baths provide immense relief and often begin to compulsively shower or bathe when their symptoms are present. Some patients have reported spending hours in hot water to soothe their symptoms.
How is cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome diagnosed?
Truthfully, it can be difficult to diagnose as often patients are disinclined to share information about drug use with medical professionals. In other cases, since people associate cannabis with improving nausea, it does not occur to them to that it could be creating the nausea and so they do not think it’s relevant to mention to their doctor.
CHS can also look like cyclic vomiting syndrome, which can have similar symptoms, but has a different cause, thus a different treatment.
How is cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome treated?
While the doctor may provide medications to improve the nausea short-term or manage dehydration, the only meaningful treatment is to cease cannabis use. Although it may take some time, the symptoms will eventually subside so long as people to avoid cannabis.
Many people with CHS find letting go of their cannabis use to be difficult.
Though not frequently spoken about compared to drugs like alcohol or opioids, some people do develop unhealthy relationships with cannabis and meet criteria for a substance use disorder.
Is cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome dangerous?
Potentially, yes. Anything that makes us vomit frequently poses a risk to our health. Letting CHS symptoms persist could lead to complications from dehydration, malnutrition, tooth decay, and injury to the esophagus, among others.
If you suspect you have CHS, schedule an appointment with your doctor. If you are experiencing any of the following, please contact 911 or get to an emergency room:
Dark/minimal urine
Delirium (sudden confusion)
Dizziness
Unexplained sleepiness
Quickened heart rate
Rapid breathing
Fainting
Support if you need it.
Changing your relationship with cannabis can be stressful and isolating. If you need help or just want to explore the role that drugs are playing in your life, reach out.
No judgment, just support.
Whatever you are facing, you don’t have to face it alone.
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About the Author:
Kimberly May, LPC-S, LMFT is the founder of Substance Use Therapy in Austin, TX. Kimberly works with individuals, couples, and families whose lives have been impacted by substance use. By utilizing a harm reduction framework, Kimberly works effectively with people in any stage of use. Contact today to schedule a no-charge, 30-minute consultation.
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