Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome CHS: The Dreaded Stomach Ache

what are the first signs of cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome

Haloperidol is traditionally used to treat agitation; however, it has been used successfully as an antiemetic in general surgery and oncology. D2 receptors are also chs syndrome present in the chemoreceptor trigger zone, which may account for these antiemetic properties. Additional studies are warranted to determine haloperidol’s place in therapy and its optimal dosing.

  • Over time, the act of bathing or showering excessively can also lead to its own set of issues.
  • Experimental evidence reveals that when pesticides are employed in cannabis culture, up to 70% of their concentration may be recruited into its smoke (Sullivan et al., 2013).
  • The author(s) declare that financial support was received for the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.
  • Haloperidol works as an anti-dopaminergic agent at D2 receptors in the chemoreceptor trigger zone of the brain.

3 CHS, pesticides and neem oil

what are the first signs of cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome

Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) happens when you have cycles of nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain after using cannabis (marijuana) for a long time. People with CHS often find temporary relief from these symptoms by taking hot baths and showers. An intriguing point to keep in mind is that the Rome IV criteria include the phrase “resembling cyclical vomiting syndrome.” In that regard, it is important to distinguish between the two.

what are the first signs of cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome

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For example, the drug affects the receptors in the esophageal sphincter, the tight band of muscle that opens and closes to let food go from your throat to your stomach. If this flap doesn’t work properly, your stomach acids might flow upward and cause you to have nausea and vomiting. One 2018 study found that 32.9% of self-reported frequent marijuana users who’d gone to the emergency room (ER) had symptoms of CHS. And a 2022 Canadian study found that ER visits for CHS-related problems had increased 13-fold between 2014 and 2021.

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  • But not every person who uses marijuana, even long-term use, develops CHS.
  • When your internal electrolyte levels go off the rails, your body’s ability to function properly gets compromised.
  • In that setting, medical staff can give you IV fluids, add electrolytes, and provide nutrition if you can’t keep food down.
  • If for whatever reason, you can not eliminated cannabis, the CHS community generally recommends waiting at least three months before attempting to smoke again, and even then, moderation is key.

Abdominal cramps, nausea, and vomiting may be signs of various health conditions. It requires careful examination of the patient’s history to pinpoint the cause and develop the right treatment plan. These symptoms can be due to infections, neurological disorders, or even certain chemicals. One less-known cause that first made it to medical research in 2004 is a syndrome linked to long-term use of cannabis, intriguingly, this condition seems to be eased by hot showers or baths. Although there is limited data on young people, we know that cannabis hyperemesis syndrome is an emerging problem. Considering this in the differential diagnosis of young people with persistent vomiting is important.

what are the first signs of cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome

Treatment for CHS

Besides stimulation from the nervous system, these receptors can also be influenced by different chemicals. If you suspect you have CHS, it is crucial to consult a marijuana doctor who can evaluate your symptoms and cannabis use history to provide a proper diagnosis and suggest the best treatment plan. However, CHS presents a unique challenge for regular cannabis users, and understanding this syndrome is crucial for recognizing its signs and seeking proper treatment. Moderating use will not make CHS go away – you need to quit entirely for an extended period of time to allow your body to heal. Using again marijuana addiction and trying to moderate is much harder for most people than quitting entirely.

what are the first signs of cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome

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