The Hidden Side of Cannabis: Understanding Scromiting

Cannabis use is widespread, but not everyone knows about a serious side effect called cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, or CHS. It causes intense vomiting and cramps. This condition is becoming more common, especially among young adults. Researchers from the University of Illinois Chicago looked at emergency room visits across the country. They found that visits for CHS have gone up in recent years. The study suggests that doctors need to be more aware of this condition. It is painful but can be treated. People with CHS go through cycles of severe stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting. These episodes can last one to two days. The pain is so bad that some people scream while vomiting, which is called "scromiting. " This usually happens in people who have used cannabis for many years. Scientists are not sure why it develops, but it might be due to overstimulation of cannabinoid receptors in the gut. The study looked at ER visits from 2016 to 2022. They found about 100, 000 cases of suspected CHS. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of cases was steady. But starting in 2020, the number of cases surged. Even though the cases went down in 2022, they were still higher than before the pandemic. This suggests that CHS is becoming more common. The rise in CHS cases might be linked to the COVID-19 pandemic. Stress, isolation, and increased cannabis use during this time could have played a role. The growing legalization of cannabis and higher THC levels in cannabis strains might also be factors. CHS is a terrible experience, but it can be managed. Hot baths and showers can provide temporary relief. The only way to prevent it is to stop using cannabis. It might take weeks, but the symptoms will eventually stop. While CHS is becoming more common, it is still a rare side effect. The study emphasizes that cannabis use is not risk-free, especially at higher doses and with long-term, heavy use. Recently, CHS was added to the International Classification of Diseases. This makes it easier for doctors to diagnose and for researchers to track the condition. However, doctors and hospitals need to be aware of CHS to make a timely diagnosis. More research is needed to understand why only some long-term users develop CHS.