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The Three Stages of Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome

It wasn’t long ago that medical science debated the legitimacy of cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS). But in recent years, enough research has been done to verify the condition exists. It is not extremely common among cannabis users, but it’s also not extremely rare.

CHS is a condition typified by nausea, vomiting, and cramps following cannabis consumption. The physical symptoms can be anywhere from mild to severe. When they are on the more severe side, they can be frightening enough to send someone to the emergency room.

We don’t know as much about CHS as we would like. However, we do know that it tends to occur in three stages. Each of the stages is described below. As you read, bear in mind that CHS is not typical for medical cannabis users. According to the experts at Utahmarijuana.org, the syndrome is most often associated with long term recreational use.

Stage #1: Prodromal

The prodromal stage of CHS manifests itself in mild to moderate symptoms. A cannabis user might experience nausea early in the morning, especially following cannabis consumption the night before. The nausea may or may not be accompanied by abdominal pain and vomiting.

A fear of vomiting, even if it doesn’t actually occur, is part of the prodromal stage. We are not exactly sure why this is. Nonetheless, one of the most interesting aspects of this first stage is that users continue using cannabis under the assumption that it will ultimately relieve their nausea.

Note that the prodromal stage can last as little as a few weeks or as long as several years. Its length seems to vary among cannabis users.

Stage #2: Hyperemetic

The second stage of CHS is the hyperemetic stage. A cannabis user might be confused about whether he is in stage one, but there is no doubt when stage two kicks in. The hyperemetic stage is typified by intense, repeated episodes of vomiting.

Users in this stage often report ongoing nausea. Again, the nausea may or may not be accompanied by abdominal pain, though it is more often than not. Patients also report weight loss and appetite reduction.

The ongoing vomiting can lead to dehydration. This creates a separate problem that could prove to be dangerous. Cannabis users in stage two really need to make a concerted effort to stay hydrated.

Stage #3: Recovery

The third and final stage of CHS is the recovery stage. It can only begin when a person stops using cannabis. Unfortunately, stopping does not eliminate CHS symptoms immediately. Symptom relief tends to occur gradually.

Over time, a cannabis user will regain their appetite. Cramps and abdominal pains will subside as will nausea and vomiting episodes. Even the fear of vomiting will eventually go away. How long does recovery take? It could be anywhere from a few days to several months.

No Treatments For Now

As for treatments, there are none at the current time. At least there are none that have been medically approved. Historically, marijuana users have claimed that taking cold showers can offer immediate relief. However, symptom relief would be temporary for someone in stage two. CHS symptoms are likely to return the next time that person uses cannabis.

In closing, it is important to reiterate that CHS is not normally associated with medical cannabis consumption. Under the supervision of a medical professional, cannabis is tightly controlled. CHS is more likely to occur as a result of heavy recreational use. But even at that, science has not yet figured out why some people seem more susceptible to CHS than others. We still have a lot to learn.

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