New research uncovers that long-term cannabis use can trigger a rarely recognized — yet increasingly common — condition known as Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS). Once obscure, CHS is now surfacing more frequently in emergency rooms across the U.S. as legalization spreads and high-potency cannabis becomes widespread. 

 

CHS typically unfolds in three stages. The early stage — prodromal — brings recurring abdominal pain or morning nausea that can linger for years. As the condition advances into the hyperemetic phase, sufferers endure relentless vomiting — sometimes so intense they may scream in pain while retching, a phenomenon sensationally dubbed “scromiting.” In an attempt to relieve discomfort, many resort to compulsive hot baths or showers for hours at a time. 

 

Though anti-nausea medications rarely help, symptoms generally recede once cannabis use stops. Recovery can begin within days, but without abstinence, symptoms often return. 

 

A new 2025 study spanning 2016–2022 illustrates the sharp rise in CHS-related emergency department visits. Cases surged from 4.4 per 100,000 visits in 2016 to 22.3 per 100,000 by 2022 — peaking even higher in 2020. Younger adults, especially those aged 18–35, account for the majority of these visits. 

 

Researchers caution that CHS remains under-recognized. Many patients are misdiagnosed with generic gastrointestinal disorders or cyclic vomiting syndrome. With the introduction of a dedicated diagnostic code (ICD-10 F12.188), experts hope awareness will grow so clinicians can spot CHS sooner — sparing patients repeated hospital trips, unnecessary tests, and prolonged suffering. 

 

 

 

Key Takeaways

 

Long-term, frequent cannabis use can trigger CHS — a disorder marked by relentless nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and often compulsive hot bathing.

 

CHS cases have surged sharply over the last decade, especially among younger adults aged 18–35.

 

The only effective way to stop CHS episodes is to quit using cannabis; recognition and early diagnosis remain essential.

 

 

Adapted From:

 

https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-12-chronic-cannabis-vomiting-compulsive-symptoms.html#goog_rewarded

 

Link To Study 

 

https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2841769

I've now read two different reports about CHS, and neither mentions whether the condition is caused by smoking marijuana or eating it, although one report 'mentioned' vapes, but didn't focus on smoking.

Is it over-consumption? Or does it affect the one-joint-a-day smoker?

Is it the THC in the intestines? Or the THC in the lungs?

Both reports were designed to be fear-inducing without giving any details.

I can understand how a young person might ingest several gummies every day, just to get through their school day. (No smoking on school grounds, right?)

All the peer-reviewed studies show the dangers of cigarette smoking, linking it with various serious medical complications. Yet young people are smoking more and more these days, not caring about the medical research. And I guess it's not just the young folks who disregard medical advice, though...