A colleague recently shared her evening struggles with anxiety. After a long day filled with work responsibilities, cooking, and parenting two small children, she finds herself consumed by thoughts of unfinished tasks. Given the legalization of recreational cannabis in many areas, including California, I suggested she unwind with a few puffs after her kids were asleep.
“I can’t,” she replied. “That stuff just makes me feel sick.” She explained that each time she tried marijuana, it left her feeling nauseous rather than relaxed. This reaction is not uncommon; just as some individuals are intolerant to lactose or gluten, others can experience an adverse reaction to cannabis.
A recent study from New York University Langone Medical Center reveals that a significant number of frequent marijuana users may be suffering from a condition known as Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS). This syndrome can lead to distressing symptoms such as nausea, abdominal pain, and debilitating vomiting—an unfortunate twist, especially since many people turn to cannabis for its purported calming effects.
With recreational cannabis now legal in nine states plus Washington D.C., an increasing number of individuals are using it for stress relief and enjoyment. Medical marijuana, available in 29 states, is often prescribed to manage pain, control nausea, stimulate appetite, and reduce anxiety. However, for those affected by CHS, these benefits can feel far out of reach.
An article in Business Insider discussed a participant in a 2004 study who endured relentless nausea and vomiting for nearly a decade. Her only source of relief was taking hot baths—often to the point of self-harm. Eventually diagnosed with CHS, her story highlights a condition once thought to be rare but now believed to be more widespread than previously acknowledged.
In a recent study published in Basic & Clinical Pharmacology & Toxicology, researchers surveyed thousands of adults visiting a New York City emergency room. They identified a subset of 155 heavy marijuana users who had consumed cannabis almost daily for over five years. Alarmingly, nearly 33% of these individuals showed symptoms consistent with CHS. Lead author Joseph Habboushe estimated that this could translate to approximately 2.75 million adults in the United States potentially grappling with this syndrome.
This raises the question: why has Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome remained under the radar for so long? Despite cannabis being used for decades, the medical community has lagged in researching its effects—both positive and negative. The federal classification of marijuana as a Schedule 1 substance has hindered studies that could provide clarity on its interactions with the human body.
Currently, the only effective treatment for CHS is to discontinue cannabis use. While some individuals may find temporary solace in hot baths, like the woman who suffered burns, this approach can lead to further complications. “As far as we know, there are no effective treatments for this. Most anti-nausea medications don’t help,” Habboushe noted. “The only reliable remedy is abstaining from cannabis. Many patients will quit for a few days and feel better, but the symptoms return when they resume use.”
More research is essential to unravel the complexities of CHS, including why it affects certain individuals but not others, and which specific cannabis compounds may trigger this syndrome. For those who believe in the therapeutic potential of cannabis for ailments ranging from anxiety to chronic pain, it’s crucial to acknowledge that it may not suit everyone. Understanding the side effects is vital for ensuring users can enjoy the benefits of cannabis without adverse reactions.
If you’re experiencing nausea after consuming cannabis, it’s advisable to stop using it and avoid hot baths, no matter how soothing they may seem. For further information on fertility treatments and home insemination, consider visiting excellent resources like March of Dimes and Make a Mom, which provide valuable insights on related topics. Additionally, for more on the subject, check out our post on home insemination kits.
In summary, Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome sheds light on the potential negative effects of cannabis use, particularly for heavy users. As research continues to evolve, it is crucial for users to remain informed about their responses to cannabis and seek alternative solutions when necessary.