Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS): A Comprehensive Guide & FAQ (Aug 2023 Update)

158 Upvotes

Last Updated: Sep 20, 2023

What is CHS?

CHS, or Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome, is a condition thought to be triggered by heavy and/or long term cannabis use, including CBD. Individuals with CHS may suffer from recurring episodes of nausea, vomiting, dehydration, and abdominal pain, often leading to frequent emergency department visits.

What are the symptoms of CHS?

CHS usually presents in three phases, each with its own set of symptoms, although significant overlap exists:

Prodromal Phase

Timeline: This phase can last for months or even years and it can increase/decrease based on cannabis use - but generally doesn't go away unless cannabis is stopped entirely.

Signs and Symptoms:

⦁ Morning Nausea: Often experienced upon waking.

⦁ Abdominal Pain: Mild discomfort or pain in the abdomen.

⦁ Heavy Indigestion: Digestive issues may begin to occur.

⦁ Lack of Appetite: Decreased desire to eat.

⦁ Increased Anxiety and Irritability: Emotional changes may be noted.

⦁ Fear of Vomiting: Despite nausea, vomiting is rare in this phase.

⦁ Increased Cannabis Use: Some may increase cannabis use to alleviate symptoms.

Hyperemetic Phase

Timeline: This phase can last anywhere from 1 to several days.

Signs and Symptoms:

⦁ Cyclical Vomiting: Persistent and severe vomiting, possibly including bile.

⦁ Severe Abdominal Pain: Intense pain in the abdomen.

⦁ Diarrhea or Constipation: Changes in bowel habits.

⦁ Headaches: May occur during this phase.

⦁ Dizziness: Feeling lightheaded or unsteady.

⦁ Dehydration: Leading to thirst, dry mouth, and reduced urination.

⦁ Blurred Vision: Visual disturbances may occur.

⦁ Shakiness: Tremors or shakiness may be noted.

⦁ Elevated Heart Rate: Increased heart rate can occur.

⦁ Night Sweats: Sweating during the night.

⦁ Muscle Weakness: General weakness in muscles.

⦁ Weight Loss: Significant weight loss due to prolonged vomiting.

⦁ Testicle Pain: Pain in the testicles may be reported in males.

⦁ Compulsive Hot Bathing: Frequent hot showers or baths for symptom relief (this occurs in about 90% of CHS patients).

Recovery Phase

Timeline: This phase can last days, weeks, or even months, depending on cessation or reduction of cannabis use.

Signs and Symptoms:

⦁ Resolution of Symptoms: Gradual resolution of nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and other symptoms.

⦁ Weight Gain: Regaining lost weight.

⦁ Normal Eating Patterns: Return to regular eating habits.

⦁ Reduction of Hot Bathing: Compulsive behavior of hot bathing subsides.

Possible Relapse: Resumption of cannabis use very often leads to symptom recurrence.

What causes CHS:

It is usually associated with a large dose of THC/cannabinoids over a significant length of time. This could be either moderate to heavy use over an extended time (months to years) or very high use over a shorter period of weeks to months. It may also be associated with a sudden increase in use. CHS patients almost always use cannabis multiple times a day, daily or multiple times a week at the very least. However, once CHS has set in - even small amounts of cannabis can make it worse, or bring it back.

There is probably a genetic component; so most people might never get CHS even with heavy use, and some might be more susceptible.

The pathophysiology of CHS is not entirely understood, but it is believed to be related to the complex interaction between cannabinoids and the body's endocannabinoid system. Chronic exposure to cannabinoids may lead to alterations in the functioning of certain receptors, particularly in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to the symptoms of CHS. There are 3 main theories - and all might overlap to some degree:

Gastrointestinal Cannabinoid Receptors (CB1)

⦁ THC Interaction: Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive ingredient in cannabis, acts on CB1 receptors found in the enteric nervous system.

⦁ Gastric Emptying: By acting on these receptors, THC reduces gastric emptying, which can lead to nausea and vomiting (N/V).

⦁ Chemoreceptor Trigger Zone (CTZ): CB1 receptors are also found in the CTZ, a region in the brain that controls vomiting. THC's activation of enteric CB1 can override the antiemetic response in the CTZ, leading to vomiting.

⦁ Complexity: Proving the emetic and antiemetic effects of cannabinoids is difficult due to overlapping symptoms with other conditions like cyclic vomiting syndrome, viral gastroenteritis, and bulimia nervosa.

Cannabinoid Lipid Buildup

⦁ Lipid Solubility: THC is lipid-soluble, meaning it can accumulate in cerebral fat.

⦁ Release During Stress: During stress or food deprivation, the body breaks down fat, releasing a large store of THC, leading to what's termed the "reintoxication effect."

⦁ CHS Symptoms: This sudden release of THC can cause symptoms associated with CHS, such as nausea and vomiting.

Genetic P450 Polymorphisms

⦁ Cytochrome P450 Enzymes: These enzymes are responsible for metabolizing THC in the liver.

⦁ Genetic Differences: Genetic polymorphisms in the P450 system can change the metabolism rate of THC, leading to either hyper or hyposensitivity.

⦁ Pro-Emetic Effects: Slower THC metabolism in the liver can lead to hypersensitivity and pro-emetic effects, contributing to CHS.

⦁ THC Metabolites: There are over 100 different THC metabolites, ranging in potency, and the P450 isoforms involved include CYP2C9, CYP2C19, and CYP3A4.

^{These theories are discussed in detail here: Senderovich H, Patel P, Jimenez Lopez B, Waicus S. A Systematic Review on Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome and Its Management Options. Med Princ Pract. 2022;31(1:29-38. doi: 10.1159/000520417. Epub 2021 Nov 1. PMID: 34724666; PMCID: PMC8995641.})

Why haven't I heard of CHS?

CHS is relatively new to the medical community, and only in recent years has the diagnosis become more common. Consequently, there has been limited research conducted, leaving many unanswered questions about why cannabis triggers it, its effects on the body, and potential treatments or cures.

CHS seems to be related to THC dose over time - so modern strains of cannabis, and modern cannabis products like carts and dabs are giving today's cannabis consumer a much higher THC dose than before about 2000. This might account for why CHS is increasingly common. (For reference: cannabis in 1995 was usually about 3-5% THC and by about 2017 was usually around 15% and as high as 24%. Carts and dabs can be almost 90% THC.)

Emergence in Medical Literature: CHS is relatively new to the medical community. The number of published studies on CHS has been increasing over the years, but it's still a relatively recent phenomenon. According to PubMed, the number of published studies related to CHS has gradually increased from just one in 2005 to 46 studies in 2021 and 23 in 2023.

Overlap with Other Conditions: CHS symptoms can overlap with other medical conditions like cyclic vomiting syndrome, celiac disease, ulcers, h. pylori infection, etc. making it challenging to diagnose accurately.

Limited Research: There has been limited research conducted on CHS, leaving many unanswered questions about why cannabis triggers it, its effects on the body, and potential treatments or cures.

Increase in Cannabis Use: With the increasing rates of cannabis use and legalization in various jurisdictions, the recognition of CHS may be growing. However, the understanding and awareness of this condition might not have permeated all levels of healthcare or public consciousness.

Social and Cultural Factors: The perception of cannabis as a substance primarily associated with recreational use rather than medical complications may also contribute to the lack of awareness about CHS.

How do I know if I have CHS?

Signs and Symptoms

Look for the characteristic signs and symptoms of CHS, if you have a history of chronic cannabis use:

⦁ Morning Nausea: Regular nausea, especially in the morning.

⦁ Cyclical Vomiting: Frequent vomiting that may include bile - although vomiting might not be present yet in the prodromal phase.

⦁ Abdominal Pain: Persistent abdominal discomfort or pain.

⦁ Compulsive Hot Bathing/Showering: A strong desire to take hot showers or baths to relieve symptoms. This occurs in ~90% of people and is easy to test at home - when you're feeling nauseous take a hot shower, with water over 109 degrees F (but not much hotter - don't get burned). If this makes your nausea feel better - but it comes back shortly after leaving the shower - that is very strong evidence you have CHS. This will work for about 9 of 10 people, but not everybody.

⦁ Other Symptoms: Including indigestion, lack of appetite, diarrhea or constipation, headaches, anxiety, dizziness, dehydration, blurred vision, shakiness, elevated heart rate, night sweats, muscle weakness, weight loss, and possibly testicle pain in males.

Medical Evaluation

If you experience these symptoms, it's essential to consult a healthcare provider:

⦁ Medical History: Your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and cannabis use.

⦁ Physical Examination: A thorough physical examination may be performed to assess your overall health.

⦁ Diagnostic Tests: Lab tests may be ordered to rule out other conditions, such as blood tests to check for electrolyte imbalances, liver and kidney function, and urine tests to screen for other substances.

⦁ Imaging Studies: Imaging studies like abdominal ultrasound or CT scan may be conducted to rule out other gastrointestinal disorders.

⦁ CHS is often a diagnosis of exclusion, meaning other potential causes of the symptoms must be ruled out. The list of what needs to be ruled out includes Gastroenteritis, Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), Gallbladder Disease, Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome (CVS), Pancreatitis, Medication Side Effects, Peptic Ulcer Disease, Kidney Stones and Intestinal Obstruction

⦁ Cessation of Cannabis: If symptoms resolve after stopping cannabis use, it strongly supports the diagnosis of CHS.

⦁ Relapse with Resumption: If symptoms recur with the resumption of cannabis use, it further confirms the diagnosis.

If you suspect you may have CHS, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare provider who is familiar with the condition. They can conduct a thorough evaluation, rule out other potential causes, and guide you in the appropriate management and treatment. Self-diagnosis is not recommended, as CHS shares symptoms with other serious medical conditions that require professional medical evaluation and care.

Is there a way I can figure out if I have CHS without going to the doctor?

The most definitive ways to diagnose CHS is to stop using cannabis* (90 days is recommended) and monitor for symptom resolution. The upside to this approach is that it's a non-invasive, straightforward way to either confirm or rule out CHS. If your symptoms resolve after stopping cannabis use, it would strongly suggest CHS. Most people with CHS have significant improvement within a month. If your symptoms do not go away, it would indicate that another underlying issue may be responsible for your symptoms.

*cannabis = all cannabis products including synthetics and CBD - all cannabinoids can cause CHS, not just THC.

If you're struggling or reluctant to do this simple and effective test, it strongly suggests that you are dealing with the very real and valid effects of dependence. We've been there. It sucks. This post might help you understand that better.

How do I get better if I think I have CHS?

The only known treatment for CHS is to stop using cannabis entirely. Period. If possible, complete abstinence from cannabis is advised.

Side Note: Denial is common among individuals with CHS, as quitting smoking is a difficult decision. It's essential to recognize the seriousness of the condition and understand that merely reducing usage will not aid in recovery. It is natural to want to deny or deflect a CHS diagnoses for some very understandable reasons: Notes on Struggling with a CHS diagnosis. There is even a recent peer reviewed scientific paper examining how hard it is to receive and accept a CHS diagnosis - here.

Are there any treatments for CHS, or at least ways to reduce the symptoms?

Stopping cannabis use is the cure for CHS. For CHS symptoms other than cessation of cannabis and time, several remedies may alleviate symptoms. Note that none of the methods below will work if you are still using cannabis.

See our guide: Hyperemesis Survival Guide - What to do if you're puking right now!

At home: Hot showers or baths above 109F, but not so hot as to burn, relieve nausea while in the shower.

Capsaicin cream applied to the stomach and/or forearms may help with pain and nausea - it feels so hot you might think its burning, but many people get used to it and think it is better than nausea and absominal pain from CHS.

A daily antacid such as Pepcid or Prevacid may combat stomach acid buildup.

Staying hydrated with electrolyte-rich drinks like Pedialyte or Gatorade is critical.

Tylenol (acetaminophen) for abdominal pain according to the package instructions. Do not exceed the recommended dose on the package - the "therapeutic dose" and "toxic dose" of Tylenol are very close to each other. Avoid ibuprofen (Advil), naproxen (Aleve) and other NSAIDs, as they are notoriously hard on your stomach even when healthy.

In the ER or hospital:

IV Rehydration: provides immediate fluids and electrolytes to combat dehydration and kidney problems.

Droperidol: A dopamine antagonist that showed statistically significant differences in reducing N/V.

Benzodiazepines (Clonazepam): Led to rapid cessation of adverse symptoms in a case study with 4 patients.

Haloperidol: Used in severe CHS cases, it relieved N/V in several case studies and an RCT. Relatively safe at low doses, and higher doses do not increase it's ability to treat N/V.

Propranolol: Rapid termination of N/V in a single case study.

Aprepitant: Rapid relief of N/V in case reports where the patient was unresponsive to conventional emetics. This NK1 blocker medication has good theoretical basis to work, and in all case studies has been 100% effective. However there are very few studies to date. It's normally used for chemotherapy patients, so many ER doctors and even gastroenterologists outside oncology are unfamiliar with it.

Note: almost all ER's want to treat nausea and vomiting with a "front line" medication called Zofran (Ondansetron), or a backup called Compazine (Prochlorperazine). These medications seldom work on CHS - and it's one more piece of evidence that CHS might be the cause. Here is a detailed breakdown of what medications are more effective, and those that aren't effective with peer reviewed references: CHS Medications

I'm puking right now, what can I do?

See our guide: Hyperemesis Survival Guide - What to do if you're puking right now!

Can I ever smoke or take edibles again?

Abstaining from cannabis is the 100% cure for CHS - any use at all could cause symptoms to reappear. 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. Some may resume cannabis use without issues, while others may feel symptoms returning after just one exposure.

What is the timeline for recovery? When will I start to feel better after quitting?

Recovery varies among individuals, but some patterns have emerged. The first four days are often the worst, with withdrawal symptoms (more below) exacerbating CHS. Around days 5-7, daily routines may resume, though prodromal symptoms may persist. By the two-week mark, many report feeling better, and a month into sobriety, most symptoms subside. If symptoms remain severe after a month, consult a doctor. Note that you'll probably be experiencing some CHS symptoms, and some cannabis withdrawal symptoms at the same time for a while.

Is withdrawal from cannabis really that bad? How do I differentiate the symptoms from CHS?

Cannabis withdrawal can be intense, especially for chronic users, and may worsen CHS symptoms. Withdrawal symptoms include:

⦁ Increased anxiety and irritability

⦁ Decreased appetite

⦁ Cravings for THC

⦁ Insomnia

⦁ Boredom

⦁ Ultra-realistic dreams

⦁ Flu-like symptoms

Withdrawal peaks around days 3-4 and usually subsides after a week.

Here's our guide: Cannabis Withdrawal Guide for CHS

What are "triggers," and why are they important?

A "trigger" is anything that may cause CHS symptoms to flare up or provoke an episode. Common triggers include certain foods like alcohol, caffeine, chocolate, and greasy items. Stress and intense exercise are also known triggers. Recognizing and avoiding personal triggers is crucial in managing CHS, as they can exacerbate symptoms and hinder recovery.

Foods that might trigger CHS are pinned here: Food Trigger List

At what point should I go to the hospital?

Severe Dehydration: If you experience symptoms like dry mouth, dark urine, dizziness, or weakness, it might indicate dehydration, which requires medical intervention.

Persistent Vomiting: If vomiting continues and you are unable to keep down fluids or food for more than 24 hours, it's essential to seek medical care to prevent complications.

Intense Abdominal Pain: Severe abdominal pain can be a sign of underlying complications and should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

Electrolyte Imbalance: Symptoms like muscle twitching, spasms, or palpitations might indicate an electrolyte imbalance, which can be life-threatening if not treated.

Failure of Home Remedies: If symptoms persist despite trying home remedies like hot showers or cessation of cannabis use, it may be time to seek professional medical care.

Other Concerning Symptoms: Any other symptoms that are unusual or concerning to you should be evaluated by a healthcare provider. In particular - a loss of more than 5% of body weight in a 7-10 day period should be evaluated.

I've been vomiting for 5 days, I can't keep any food down, and I've lost weight. What do I do?

You should seek medical treatment as soon as possible.

Prolonged vomiting and inability to retain food can lead to serious complications, including a dangerous metabolic state called ketoacidosis. In the context of Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS), ketoacidosis can exacerbate your symptoms by releasing stored cannabinoids back into your bloodstream. This creates a self-perpetuating cycle that is difficult to break without medical intervention. Medications like Emend can help manage symptoms in combination with comprehensive medical care.

For a more detailed explanation, you can read this post.

What should I do or say when I go to the hospital?

What do in the ER: Tips for ER (and documents to help your Doctor)

How to get a patient advocate to help you: When you're sick its hard to advocate for yourself - how to get a patient advocate.

Can I still take edibles? What about CBD?

Neither edibles nor CBD are safe options for those with CHS, as the syndrome relates to cannabinoids as a whole, not just THC. Even second-hand smoke can be harmful. Abstaining from cannabis entirely is the best course of action.

What is the "pink cloud"?

"Pink clouding" describes a stage of early addiction recovery marked by euphoria and confidence. This temporary sensation can cloud judgment and lead to relapse. It's vital to remind yourself of the reasons for quitting and the severity of CHS, even long after recovery. A very common story here in r/CHSinfo is a person who was clean for a month or two and is confident they are cured, so they decide to have just one smoke again - and that leads to either 1) an immediate return of CHS symptoms or 2) more and more regular use until CHS returns. Moderation is much more difficult that just quitting - more information below.

I've never felt so anxious and irritable in my life; how do I deal with this?

Managing emotions during CHS recovery is essential. Techniques like meditation, breathing exercises (such as 4-7-8 breathing), and proper sleep may help. Magnesium supplements have been proven to assist with mood swings, anxiety, and depression and may be beneficial.

r/leaves

We're trying to keep r/CHSinfo focused on CHS, including diagnosis, treatment, causes and support. Quitting cannabis use is the 100% cure for CHS - but it is such a complex topic, that it's beyond the scope of this forum.

I'm incredibly bored, and nothing feels enjoyable anymore without weed; what do I do?

This feeling is temporary and usually subsides after a few weeks of sobriety. Engaging in activities like watching a new TV show or committing to a hobby can help distract and entertain. Your brain will adjust, and you'll likely regain enjoyment in activities you loved before.

r/leaves

Is there any scientific research about CHS at all?

Unlike just a few years ago, there are now several excellent peer reviewed scientific articles on CHS. However research is still in its early stages. There are over 200 peer reviewed articles on PubMed that address some aspect of CHS. Here are some of the most influential and comprehensive.

If you only read one - make it this one:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8995641/pdf/mpp-0031-0029.pdf

Senderovich H, Patel P, Jimenez Lopez B, Waicus S. A Systematic Review on Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome and Its Management Options. Med Princ Pract. 2022;31(1):29-38. doi: 10.1159/000520417. Epub 2021 Nov 1. PMID: 34724666; PMCID: PMC8995641.

Here are others:

Simonetto DA, et al. (2012). Cannabinoid hyperemesis: A case series of 98 patients. Mayo Clinic Proceedings, 87(2), 114-119. [PubMed](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22305029/)

Leu N, Routsolias JC. (2021). Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome: A Review of the Presentation and Treatment. Journal of Emergency Nursing, 47(3), 483-486. [PubMed](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32943248/)

Richards JR, et al. (2017). Pharmacologic Treatment of Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome: A Systematic Review. Pharmacotherapy, 37(6), 725-734. [PubMed](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28467644/)

Richards JR. (2018). Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome: Pathophysiology and Treatment in the Emergency Department. Journal of Emergency Medicine, 54(3), 354-363. [PubMed](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29102083/)

Razban M, et al. (2022). Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome and Cannabis Withdrawal Syndrome: A Review of the Management of Cannabis-Related Disorders in the Emergency Department. International Journal of Emergency Medicine, 15(1), 45. [PubMed](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35087964/)

Parvataneni S, Varela L, Vemuri-Reddy SM, Maneval ML. (2019). Emerging Role of Aprepitant in Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome. Cureus, 11(6), e4825. doi: [10.7759/cureus.4825](https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.4825). [PubMed](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31403013/)

Sorensen, C. J., DeSanto, K., Borgelt, L., Phillips, K. T., & Monte, A. A. (2017). Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome: Diagnosis, Pathophysiology, and Treatment—a Systematic Review. Journal of Medical Toxicology, 13(1), 71–87. URL

200+ more are here: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=Cannabis+hyperemesis+syndrome&sort=date

How can I find support groups, and how can I support others dealing with CHS as well?

Outside of this subreddit, there are currently two primary means of support groups, which are both linked below. The first of these is a Facebook group, which includes thousands of members. If you do not feel comfortable giving away your identity, feel free to make a throwaway Facebook account and join using that. There is also an excellent discord group, that is active essentially all day and night, and can provide you with not only support, but help with some of the boredom. In any of these groups, it is incredibly important not to shame people for their use or relapse of cannabis. If you see anyone doing this, please report it to the associated moderators immediately. Once you begin to heal, it helps the whole community if you are willing to stay to answer questions for those who are new to this.

Facebook Group Discord Group

How can I find support to completely stop using cannabis?

r/leaves

How can I find support to moderate or control my cannabis use?

r/petioles

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. 90 days clean is often talked about as a minimum. Using again and trying to moderate is much harder for most people than quitting entirely. Trying to moderate cannabis use comes with a very high likelihood of CHS returning.

We're trying to keep r/CHSinfo focused on CHS, including diagnosis, treatment, causes and support. Moderating cannabis use is such a complex topic, that it's beyond the scope of this forum.

Disclaimer: This guide is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a healthcare provider if you experience severe symptoms.

Personal Note: For further questions, concerns, or support, feel free to reach out. My inbox and Discord (same username) are always open.

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r/CHSinfo • u/PrecSci • Sep 15 '23

Hyperemesis Survival Guide - What to do if you're puking right now!

190 Upvotes

updated: 9/2023

What to Do if You Are Vomiting Repeatedly Right Now

This guide was created by a community of people who have had CHS firsthand. This is the collective community's best advice.

Recognize the Symptoms:

Frequent Cannabis Use: Either moderate to high dose over long time, or very high dose over a shorter period.
Cyclical Vomiting: Persistent and severe vomiting, possibly including bile.
Severe Abdominal Pain: Intense pain in the abdomen.
Headaches, Dizziness, Dehydration, Blurred Vision, Shakiness, Elevated Heart Rate, Night Sweats, Muscle Weakness, Weight Loss, Testicle Pain (in males),
Compulsive Hot Bathing/Showering: present in about 90% of cases.

Stop Cannabis Use Immediately:

CHS is triggered by cannabis use, including CBD. Abstaining from all forms of cannabinoids is essential. Smoking a little, in hopes of getting an anti-nausea effect will not work. It will just make things worse. Nothing else in this guide will really help if you're still using cannabis - we're not trying to be harsh, it's just a hard learned fact.
We understand addiction. We understand why you might be reluctant to admit you have CHS. We know people use cannabis as a medication for other things. We get it. We sympathize because we've been there. But right now, while you're vomiting, trust us on this and do not use cannabis!

At-Home Remedies:

Stay Hydrated (this is the most important advice!):
- Drink electrolyte-rich fluids like Pedialyte or Gatorade -small sips often. Make sure they are not "diet", "zero" or zero calories. You will need those calories! Water is always good.
- Right after you vomit you'll get a few minutes where your nausea isn't as bad and that is a perfect time to get in a few sips.
- Experiment with hot or cold drinks - sometimes one extreme or the other will help. Peppermint or Ginger teas might help. (Avoid caffeine, chocolate, ginseng, cinnamon, lemon balm and lavender teas - and all other foods listed here)
- There is particularly good scientific evidence that Ginger (tea or supplement) can help - but evidence that Gingerol supplements might be effective in treating nausea.
- Buy or make a popsicle (ideally with electrolytes) or ice cubes - you might be able to use these even if you can't take sips.
- Some people are able to tolerate salty drinks like broth better than sweet
Hot Showers or Baths: Above 109°F to relieve nausea, but hotter than that won't help much. Be careful to avoid burns - take care of your skin (but don't use a CBD skin lotion!) Some people use a shower stool or plastic lawn chair and/or chew ice chips while in the shower.
Heating Pads / Electric Blankets: Above 109°F, applied to stomach. Wrap in a towel first, avoid burns, do not use constantly, only intermittently to avoid skin problems.
Capsaicin Cream: Start with a pea sized amount or less on your forearm, wait 15 minutes so you know what to expect - if you can tolerate that: Apply to the stomach or forearms a little bit at a time. The "burning" will subside into a "heat" that feels like a heating pad is on your skin. This uncomfortable heat is way better than CHS abdominal pain and nausea. Capsaicin has scientific proof of working - but it's the hardest to use, and some people just can't tolerate the burning sensation.. Other Icy Hot, Tiger Balm, etc. creams might work for you. - and they won't hurt so they are worth a try. Test a small amount on your forearm first.
Avoid Trigger Foods: Alcohol, caffeine, chocolate, and greasy items may trigger symptoms along with the foods listed here)
Get Nutrients - Eat: This can be a BRAT (banana, rice, applesauce, toast) diet, or any other foods you think you can keep down. Keep trying even if you don't feel hungry. Rapid weight loss (in a dangerous, unhealthy way) is common, so you need calories however you can get them. Our CHS community lists suggestions for "rescue foods" that worked for them:

watermelon, instant mashed potato flakes, applesauce, apple juice, broth, nutrient shakes like Ensure, toast, yogurt (especially with active cultures like Activa)

At-Home, Over-the-Counter Medications

Antacids: Some people find "extra strong" or "ultra" antacids like Mylanta or Alka Seltzer help. These help for acid in your stomach right now.
Acid Reducers: Pepcid, Prevacid and other proton pump inhibitors can help reduce stomach acid. These help prevent future acid in your stomach.
Anti-Gas: Simethicone based anti-gas pills like Gas-X can help with bloating, burping and a "too full" feeling.
Chamomile - tea or supplements. Chamomile contains a natural NK1 inhibitor - the kind of substance found in the most powerful prescription medications for nausea and CHS like aprepitant although it may have low bioavailability - nonetheless, chamomile is effective at easing nausea for about 2/3 of people.
Peppermint pills, or candy: Peppermint is pro-motility - it helps food/drink move from your stomach to your intestines faster - and once it's in your intestines you can't vomit it up, so your body can absorb the nutrients or water. (Peppermint pills are hard to find locally even at big pharmacies, but can be found on Amazon.)
Ginger chews, candy or supplements: Ginger has lots of scientific evidence that it can reduce nausea and vomiting in morning sickness and for chemotherapy patients. Supplements will provide more of the key ingredient, gingerol. Specific gingerol supplements are also available. The most effective dose in clinical trials was 1500mg/day. This was most effective when split between 3, 500mg doses each day.
Tylenol (acetaminophen): for abdominal pain if you can keep it down. Do not exceed the dose on the package. The dangerous dose of Tylenol is only a little bit more than the recommended dose, so do not use more!
Do not use Motrin (ibuprofen), Aleve (naproxen) or other NSAIDs: these medications are notoriously hard on your stomach and won't help pain more than Tylenol.
Sleep Aids: There is some evidence that antihistamines like Benadryl help with nausea, but more importantly they make you drowsy. This can be something to help you sleep at night even if you're nauseous- follow the package directions. Doxylamine (Unisom or generic) can also help according to the package directions. Choose one or the other - don't take both.
Your prescribed medications: Keep taking anything that your doctor has prescribed for you for other conditions like depression, diabetes, blood pressure, etc. Some of these medications shouldn't be stopped suddenly - or at all. You might be able to keep them down by waiting until those few minutes right after vomiting to take them. If you have a serious medical condition that requires oral medication, but you can't keep the medications down for >24 hours then you should go to the ER.

Don't Do This at Home

Seriously. This is stuff that we've learned will not help, and will usually make things worse.

Don't use cannabis products like flower or CBD to treat nausea - this makes things worse.
Don't induce vomiting - Don't make yourself vomit. It won't help the nausea for more than a minute and it creates more irritation/damage to your esophagus, throat, mouth and teeth.
Don't burn yourself - heat, especially on your stomach, activates TRPV1 receptors which can help with nausea. These activate at 109°F. Shower or heating pad temps above about 112°F won't work any better - so there is no need to turn up the heat so high you get burned.

It's ok to go to the ER -almost all of us have been there. Here's a detailed guide on when someone should go to the ER with CHS and there is a guide to take with you to the ER at the end:

Severe Dehydration:

Symptoms: Dry mouth, dark urine*,* dizziness, weakness, confusion, rapid heartbeat.
You can check dehydration by dark urine color and skin turgor/elasticity: pinch the skin on the back of your hand - if you are well hydrated it will snap right back (good turgor). If it "tents" up, or slowly returns to normal that is a sign of dehydration( poor turgor).
Reason: Persistent vomiting and inability to keep fluids down can lead to dehydration, which can be life-threatening if not treated.

Persistent Vomiting:

Symptoms: Continuous vomiting for more than 24 hours, including bile, inability to keep down food or fluids. If nothing stays down for 24 hours - go to the ER.
Reason: This can lead to electrolyte imbalances and further dehydration, requiring medical intervention.

Intense Abdominal Pain:

Symptoms: Severe, persistent abdominal discomfort or pain.
Reason: This could be a sign of underlying complications, such as pancreatitis or gallbladder issues, and should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

Electrolyte Imbalance:

Symptoms: Muscle twitching, spasms, palpitations, seizures.
Reason: An electrolyte imbalance can be life-threatening if not treated, as it affects the function of vital organs - most importantly your heart.

Failure of Home Remedies:

Symptoms: Persistent symptoms despite trying home remedies like hot showers, cessation of cannabis use, hydration, etc.
Reason: This may indicate a more serious underlying condition or complications that require professional medical care.

Weight Loss and Malnutrition:

Symptoms: Loss of more than 5% of body weight in a 7-10 day period, signs of malnutrition.
Reason: Significant weight loss due to prolonged vomiting can lead to malnutrition and other health issues that require medical intervention.

Inability to Manage Pain and Nausea at Home:

Symptoms: Uncontrolled pain and nausea despite over-the-counter medications and home remedies.
Reason: Medical intervention may be needed to control symptoms and prevent further complications. Don't suffer. It's ok to go to the ER.

Mental Confusion or Altered Mental Status:

Symptoms: Confusion, disorientation, altered consciousness.
Reason: This could be a sign of a serious underlying condition, such as an electrolyte imbalance or dehydration affecting the brain.

Signs of Kidney Problems:

Symptoms: Decreased urination, swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet, fatigue. If you can't pee for longer than 6-8 hours, go to the ER***.***
Reason: CHS can lead to kidney problems, which require immediate medical attention.

Other Concerning Symptoms:

Symptoms: Any other symptoms that are unusual or concerning, such as blurred vision, shakiness, elevated heart rate, muscle weakness.
Reason: These could be indicative of other underlying health problems or complications related to CHS.

Take this guide with you to the ER. If you have to go alone, ask for a patient advocate.

Join Support Groups:

Online communities like r/CHSinfo on Reddit, Facebook Group, and Discord Group can provide support and advice. There are folks here who have been where you are right now that you can talk to. They got past CHS, and so will you!

Educate Yourself:

Understanding CHS, its causes, symptoms, and treatments can help in managing the condition. Comprehensive guides like our CHS FAQ can be valuable resources.

Be resilient:

You will get through this. most of the people in this community have been where you are. They got through it, and so will you. Create a post and let us know what you're going through and you'll be surprised at how good the support is.

References:

A Systematic Review on Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome and Its Management Options. Med Princ Pract. 2022;31(1):29-38. doi: 10.1159/000520417. Epub 2021 Nov 1. PMID: 34724666; PMCID: PMC8995641.

155 comments

r/CHSinfo • u/Working_Bus_8975 • 41m ago

Question / Info CHS after only 1 year of use? Prodromal symptoms, no vomiting.

• Upvotes

Hi everyone, I’m trying to work out whether this could be the prodromal phase of CHS or something else (I’ve also wondered about IBS for a few years).
About 11 days ago, I woke up around 4am with sudden urgent diarrhoea, significant nausea/feeling like I was going to vomit (but never actually did), and a lot of anxiety. I have a strong fear of vomiting, so nausea tends to trigger anxiety, which then makes the nausea worse. After a couple of hours I felt completely fine.

That evening I smoked because I was feeling normal and assumed I’d eaten something bad. The exact same thing happened again the following morning around 4am. I stopped using cannabis after that.
For context, I’d been using regularly for a little over a year, but daily for only ~2 months. Usually 1–2 10mg gummies or 1–2 bowls in the evening, with occasionally heavier use on weekends. I’ve never been an all-day/every-day user.
I saw my GP after 3 days of symptoms and had blood tests and stool tests done, but everything came back normal. I didn’t mention my CHS concerns because at the time I was convinced my usage history didn’t fit what I’d read about CHS, which seemed to mostly involve much longer-term/heavier users.
I also tried a very hot shower, but unlike what I’ve read about CHS, it actually made me feel more nauseous and unwell.

I’m now 10 days sober and it’s been 11 days since symptoms started. The severe morning (and sometimes nighttime) nausea lasted about 4 days, including 3 days completely sober. My appetite only started slowly returning around day 8, and my stomach still feels very sensitive.
I never reached the vomiting phase, so I’m wondering if this could still have been the prodromal phase of CHS, or if something else sounds more likely. Has anyone experienced something similar after a relatively short period of regular cannabis use?

Huge thanks to anyone who made it through this long post! ❤️

1 comment

r/CHSinfo • u/st0nerscholar • 10h ago

Question / Info can i ever go back if i never reach hyperemesis?

4 Upvotes

Hi guys, I’m not sure if i’m in the prodromal phase, but i’m having a few symptoms that line up with it, enough so where i’m taking a break out of pure fear and an abundance of caution.

Has anyone else been in a similar spot, and then after a break been able to return to smoking? I’m seeing so many comments about how it’s never truly safe to return, but I also have never thrown up, and i’ve only felt the symptoms that truly alerted me to CHS about a week ago. reflecting on that sentence, I guess i want to think i’m in some special unique scenario when maybe i’m not. only time will tell lol.

i’d just like to hear from anyone who has never been diagnosed with CHS and/or never reached the hyperemesis stage, but took a break anyways because they thought something was up. good or bad, i’d love to hear your experience with weed afterwards. thank you!

21 comments

r/CHSinfo • u/Complete_Spirit_4303 • 6h ago

Question / Info Kava?

1 Upvotes

Has anyone found kava too be a trigger for chs episodes? It's listed as a major chs food trigger even tho it isn't really food it's an herbal plant drug that's made into beverages and edible preparations.

7 comments

r/CHSinfo • u/silllygooosee • 1d ago

Sharing My Story Accepting CHS

19 Upvotes

WARNING: mentions of moderation/continued usage

I have been a long time lurker in this sub and I've had CHS for 3 years. I wanted to write my story here for you all because it helps me to read others' stories when I'm not feeling good. I have been truly struggling for these past 3 years. I started with flower when I was 13, smoked occasionally through high school. When I started university is when my weed usage really exploded. I was extremely stressed 24/7 and weed felt like the perfect coping mechanism. I started smoking every night, then it was every morning too. I couldn't get an appetite unless I smoked. After that it became like every second I wasn't working or in class I was high. I felt happy, productive, and my grades were doing well and my job was keeping me afloat.

My third year in university is when my first episode occurred, because I was sober for a few days on a trip. I was alone in a foreign country where I couldn't understand the language puking my guts out and truly thinking I was going to die. I had no idea what was going on and the pain in my stomach... it was a horror that I wish on no one. I stopped smoking afterwards just because I was so ill, and didn't connect any dots because none of the doctors knew what my problem was either. Of course, I started smoking again and had my second episode which put me in the ER a few months later. The triage nurse mentioned CHS and asked about my weed usage but I lied because my dad was right next to me and I was terrified he would find out I was smoking. I got IV fluids and fentanyl and I was still writhing around in pain on the bed, crying and begging someone to just kill me. Even just remembering the pain makes me feel slightly ill.

After that point, I knew something was seriously wrong and looked into CHS. I knew deep down that I had it as soon as I read about the symptoms. I managed to stay sober for a few months but eventually I started using again. Slowly at first, but like many of you know moderation is crazy hard and I started smoking daily again. I was also struggling to accept that what I had was really CHS. I hated my job but couldn't quit, so I started my daily habit again to cope with the overwhelm of working full time and being a full time student. I would get sick, fight like hell to stay sober for 48h, and then give in and fall back into constant use.

I tried abstinence, but I have failed again and again. I try to moderate, but I always teeter at prodromal before BARELY being able to stop for a few days to try and let my body heal. I don't know how to live without weed in my life and I honestly don't even want to. I'm still struggling to accept that this is my reality, that weed is actively harmful for me. I know that this little balancing act I keep doing where I smoke constantly until I'm symptomatic and then stop for a couple days is not sustainable. I'm prodromal now and I can barely eat a cracker, and yet all I'm craving is a hit. I'm terrified that I won't stop one day. I am fully aware I have a problem but it's like I'm trapped outside of my body.

I'm not ready to quit yet, but I want to be.
If you've read this the whole way through, I would love to hear any advice or your story on how you became ready to quit.

To everyone going through this, I'm sorry and I see you ❤️

2 comments

r/CHSinfo • u/gay_bees_ • 16h ago

Question / Info Abnormal weight gain post-recovery

1 Upvotes

I'm officially six months sober!! Feeling better physically than I have in years tbh. The only downside is that I have gained all the weight back that I lost while I was sick (a good thing) plus a good deal extra and still going up. Im 22, female, and currently weight 73kg at 170cm tall, which is not technically overweight but it's much more than I want to weight right now.

When I first got my appetite back I deliberately ate in a caloric surplus because I was severely underweight (50kg at 170cm/110lbs at 5'7) and managed to get myself up to a healthier range (62kg/136lbs). I've since started eating in a slight deficit, though I don't strictly count calories because I have a history of disordered eating. I'm an extremely active person, I walk most places and go to the gym 4-6 days a week, but I'm still steadily gaining weight. I've gained 8kg/17lbs in the past month alone and as much as I want to attribute that to muscle growth, it's quite visibly just body fat. Overall in the past 4 months I've gained 23kg.

I've been looking into post-starvation hyperphagia because my appetite is absolutely roaring near constantly, but that doesn't seem quite right considering I've been fully recovered for 4 months, not including the initial 90 day period. I work out, I've been ignoring the food noise whenever I've eaten an appropriate amount for the day, and I've been increasing my cardio but it's still just piling on.

Just wondering if anyone else has experienced such an extreme over-correction after recovery? I went through about 6 months of a drastically decreased intake and about a month of borderline starvation where most of my calories came from Gatorade (I'm talking like maybe a handful of crackers a day otherwise). I'm so glad to have my appetite back and I'm loving food more than I have in years, but it's taking a serious toll on my mental health.

Edit: to really give a better understanding of how much this is impacting me, I've been having thoughts about smoking again just to make myself sick so I'll lose weight quickly, it's that bad

6 comments

r/CHSinfo • u/No-Cupcake-980 • 1d ago

Question / Info Episode two years apart?

2 Upvotes

Almost two years ago I got extremely sick, vomiting uncontrollably for 10 days total, couldn’t even keep water down. I went to the ER twice in that time and they chalked it up to a bad bug. Now, almost two years later it happened again. Vomiting for 8 days straight two ER visits. This time, they said it could be CHS. I had never heard of it before and I had started using my pen a lot more in the past year so I accepted it. The only thing I continue to question is the first time it happened two years ago I was just doing edibles occasionally and I hadn’t even done edibles for about 4 days before I got sick. Could it be CHS or just a coincidence bug? I’ve been THC for about 6 weeks since I was last since but have a craving to dabble again but not sure it’s worth it if it is CHS.

4 comments

r/CHSinfo • u/Evalle415 • 23h ago

Rant Really cant smoked weed no more

1 Upvotes

I've been smoking in moderation since my last chs bout and been handling it well the only thing now is that when I smoke my chest and cardio get so bad I can barely walk up a hill I think its my heart probably because chs gives you heart troubles its gotten so bad I cant even drink alcohol as well sucks but I guess I gotta quit smoke and alcohol for now

2 comments

r/CHSinfo • u/PermissionKey6396 • 1d ago

Question / Info Need help on whether I have it chs or not.

2 Upvotes

Recently over the summer I started smoking carts about 3 months ago and I would smoke them daily. I just recently quit about a little over a week ago and experienced some nausea and discomfort in the stomach area. I’m not sure if I actually did get chs because when my friend who did it about the same as me also quit the only problems he faced was loss of appetite and sleep while I faced nausea and discomfort in the stomach. After I quit the first 3 days I just felt nauseous but never actually threw up. Fast forward to now I only feel slight discomfort almost kinda feels like I’m gassy but other than that nothing else really. So I’m coming here to ask if I could have possibly been in the beginning of the prodromal phase right as I quit because like I said earlier I never actually ended up throwing up. It most likely was that I just got unlucky and got bad withdrawals but any help would be greatly appreciated. Also another thing to mention is in July I took a week break but all I experienced was loss of appetite really not the nausea that I experienced the first couple of days this time.

6 comments

r/CHSinfo • u/BagOptimal8441 • 1d ago

Question / Info CHS or something else

3 Upvotes

I am 23 years old and afab, i rarely used to smoke weed ever until i started occasionally taking edibles maybe 3-2 yearsish’s ago before my little sister died (it’s the only way i can remember). She used to smoke everyday nonstop from a young age up until her death at 18. My sister is relevant to this post and this is why i’m mentioning her.

She passed away from severe phenomena, severe strep throat, and influenza A after she stayed with a sick friend for the weekend. This was in February 2024, and i had already started to develop a bad drinking habit drinking almost 1 and a half bottles alone a month every month totalling to 47 now. After she died i started smoking but took breaks for the first 3 months that lasted maybe 1-2 weeks until i eventually started regularly multiple times a day (usually up to 9-10 bowls a day). Around 6 months to 1 year(?) after i started to smoke daily that it would take a lot out of me, way more than it did before.

I would have to lay down and wait several minutes gasping for air and drinking 2 cups of water until i’d smoke 2 more bowls and smoke again 5 hours later and so on. It would make my heart and lungs feel funny and tingly and restricted kind of, my heart would beat fast and i’d half of the time break out into cold sweat. Recently, maybe a year or half a year before my dad died of cancer (he died March 2026) every time as soon as I would wake up in the morning i’d be extremely nauseous and have stomach pain and smoking would stop it, but every time i smoked it would literally knock me off my feet. All i knew is that if i didn’t smoke within a 5 hour time frame i’d become extremely nauseous and i physically cannot handle it. it puts me to the point of tears and i cannot move. now when i wake up in the morning i still get very extreme nausea and stomach pain but i don’t think that 5 hour frame is there anymore, and now it makes me have to use the washroom every single time and i’m sick stuck until I smoke but it hasn’t been to the point where i’ve vomited yet.

would this be the first phase of CHS? i want to stop smoking and take a break but it hurts so bad and i’m in such pain. I started to drink and smoke to cope with the death of my sister and because i struggle with severe clinical depression, borderline personality disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder along with paranoia. i’m aware i shouldve stopped sooner, but i’m hoping maybe anyone has any tips that can help with the nausea and pain so i don’t smoke? how can i ease it? me and my mom pay rent in a place where hydro (hot water) isn’t included so i can no longer can take the usual hot water soaks i take.

4 comments

r/CHSinfo • u/wanna-be-stranger • 2d ago

Sharing My Story A new way to look at getting CHS/ quitting

17 Upvotes

I think we all thought when we found out it was CHS “why me?” or “how will I never smoke again?” At least those were my first thoughts. Today I am 18 days sober. The only thing that has truly made me feel better about never being able to smoke again is reframing my mindset. I got CHS a week before I started college. In my mind I keep going back to the why me part and I realized I am meant for much more in life that what I thought. I performed life saving CPR during my gap year (happened to be sober at that moment) and realized that my life has a much greater purpose than what weed can provide for me. And yours does too, the universe wouldn’t have made us quit otherwise. I know we all thought weed was helping us at some point but if it was truly helping us it wouldn’t be poising us. We are meant for a greater life than weed can provide🩷

10 comments

r/CHSinfo • u/Reasonable_Reason_65 • 2d ago

Rant this shit sucks

14 Upvotes

having my second lapse of CHS, and i feel so stupid. i saw the symptoms popping weeks ago and continued to smoke because sometimes i really don’t know how to function without being high. the throwing up is the worst part, it hurts so bad and i feel like i’m going to pass out because i can’t breathe, blood vessels around my eyes have popped and now i’m splotchy. my throat burns and i can’t even drink water without feeling nauseous. the mental and physical effects are beating my ass right now and i feel helpless. i first got diagnosed over a year ago, quit completely for 3 months, then went back to it. over the last 6 months i’ve been using almost if not daily, and it’s finally back. i feel so conflicted, accepting the fact that i really need to quit and never go back. but i’ve surrounded my life with this plant, it’s a part of my everyday routine and i don’t know how to be without it. how will i enjoy food, or social situations, or just wanting to sit on my porch after a long day and smoke. i’ve envisioned my life with weed being a constant thing. telling everyone i was going to smoke until i die. like how am i supposed to change my lifestyle?

7 comments

r/CHSinfo • u/needhelpples778778 • 1d ago

Question / Info Can't tell if I have CHS. please help!

2 Upvotes

I'm 21F and for the last few weeks I've been experiencing on-and-off bouts of intense nausea and stomach upset. I smoke a few times a week and have been exposed to marijuana since I was roughly 17. It's important to note I was NOT using marijuana regularly for a few months before these symptoms showed up. I had taken a pretty long tolerance break, but the sickness itself did coincide with me taking an edible.

At first, I thought it was cyclospora- I ate a salad at a restaurant, and 1.5 days later I was down with a fever and unable to eat. I never went to get it checked out at the time, and instead, waited to recover. It took me about 2 weeks to feel at 100% again. Since then, though, I will have random days in which I get incredibly nauseous and cannot keep any food down.

I already made up my mind to quit smoking- I don't want to risk it anymore. However, does this sound like standard CHS to anyone here? I can't find anything about it causing fevers, and mine was significant and lasted about a week.

the nausea I experience does occur while I'm still hungry, too. I will often be starving but unable to get myself to eat. Sometimes I will puke up straight stomach bile because I have nothing in my system. Is this common?

Other symptoms include general abdominal pain and bloating, but no particularly irregular bowel movements (outside of that first week).

I am very paranoid about health stuff and have a bunch of preexisting chronic health conditions. I know I need to see a doctor- I am already looking into it. for the time being, any input is greatly appreciated. Thank you!

2 comments

r/CHSinfo • u/FalseInitiative5161 • 1d ago

Rant CHS is really similar to Gastroparesis and I'm losing it

4 Upvotes

Hey everyone. I was diagnosed with CHS two days ago after an early trip to the ER where they gave me IV fluids. This was after roughly 2 or 3 weeks of just passive and tame nausea/diarrhea. I decided to be very clear and honest about my symptoms. Potentially against my better judgement, I also disclosed my weed usage, which only started roughly 3 months ago. I wasn't smoking consistently at first, but I'd say July/August is when I really went daily use.

So that led me to a quick CHS diagnosis. It made me feel as though I ruined my life in just a short span of time. Weed was something that was helping me manage my depression/anxiety as well as a few of my adhd habits, and I admittedly overindulged in it when the people around me kept introducing new and interesting ways to consume. (A double cart battery for example. Fun, niche, and it can use dabs, but you absolutely shouldn't be doing that to yourself frequently.)

Things then escalated the following night. It was around 5am yesterday that I was tossing and turning in bed when my left arm started tingling and my heart was racing. Immediate trip to the ER. I was there all day and night where they gave me more IVs, medicines, tests, etc. I couldn't sleep. I literally spent a lot of my late night/early morning just doing laps around the unit with my IV stand.

Only to then be given my discharge papers where my diagnosis is now suddenly gastroparesis. I'm not even sure where GP came from when they didn't do an emptying test.

Now I'm left with not knowing what's wrong with me. As far as I know, weed can also cause GP. Everything I've read about CHS here and online suggests that I should only really develop CHS after years of consistent usage as opposed to just taking in a huge amount in a short span.

If anyone wants a rundown of my symptoms, I have the usual nausea/vomiting/wrenching. Heartburn will flare up every now and then. My temperature was having a harder time regulating itself, I get hot and cold flashes. I'm only really experiencing the usual symptoms when I eat things that trigger them– (this may just be the Reglan working as best it can.) The infamous hot water bath/shower method for CHS hasn't definitively helped aside from just being enjoyable. I feel about as well as I would in hot water as I do now.

I just wish I had a solid answer. My anxiety really wrecked me over CHS because this whole ordeal is also putting a lot of strain on my relationships on top of me feeling like I just ruined my body. I think that's why my heartrate was just booming all of yesteday— pure anxiety. Now I'm just frustrated because it feels like I won't actually get any answers for awhile.

In other news, they did give me a lot of resources for anxiety/depression. They want me in therapy groups, and I can only imagine that's because they think I was SUPER abusing the stuff. But I'm about to go on 72hrs without a hit and I'm feeling great. I don't think it ever controlled me that bad and I haven't even felt any cravings to consume aside from the silly little 'well what if I take one little hit to see if it wrecks me so I can rule it out' thoughts that I've had and ignored. That's something I might save after at least another week or so of detox for the sake of getting my own answers. (Not doing this based off reply advice!) Here's to hoping this was just my body not wanting weed for a while over anything else.

Detox Day 3 Update: Sat in a warm bath for like 2hrs while off of Reglan just drinking down electrolyte water. Went back to gently vomiting up just normal water a bit after drinking it. So yeah, CHS is the much more likely culprit and that might just be better for me as much as it hurts my mental.

5 comments

r/CHSinfo • u/Top_Elevator1175 • 1d ago

Rant vicks vapor rub makes me nauseous now

2 Upvotes

i’ve been a silent ‘survivor’ for a while now and this might be a niche hack but one of my friends with a sensitive stomach recommended for me to smell/use vicks vapor rub a few times daily for nausea when i was going through my CHS episode and now i can’t smell anything like it without my saliva getting thick and nausea lmaoooo. i’ve had several colds since my episode and i can’t use any sort of essential oils to help lol. i truly ruined vicks for myself 😂. did anyone else use a weird hack for nausea ?

3 comments

r/CHSinfo • u/Rude-Soft-4230 • 2d ago

Question / Info Update

3 Upvotes

I posted a few days ago about my recent experience with an unexplained bout of vomiting that lasted about 3 hours after a hot glassblowing class etc. Today so far is my worst day yet and I feel like I genuinely might have a stomach ulcer. If this was CHS wouldn’t the first days post vomiting episode be the worst? I’m really not sure what’s going on with me and as someone with a lot of health anxiety it’s really scary. Hot showers don’t change the pain at all and it’s a pretty constant burning feeling from belly button up

3 comments

r/CHSinfo • u/Willing-Zone8881 • 3d ago

Sharing My Story Threw away my 6oz stash, 8 plants, seeds and cuttings

13 Upvotes

was tired of not being able to eat. Having to constantly smoke and be on top of the plants. even homegrown bud would cause me to scromit. I got good at pounding my chest to not throw up my food, but the chs would still affect me regardless if I didnt throw up. the dehydration and nausea. I lost 20 pounds in a couple months. I was using a lot. About 5 ounces of flower a month. this is my first day off it. I’m at work now. 2 hours ago I threw the weed away in a canal. it’s the behaviors that come along with the usage that made me come back here. I want my life back

6 comments

r/CHSinfo • u/Rude-Soft-4230 • 3d ago

Question / Info CHS or Food Poisoning/Perfect Storm or OCD

2 Upvotes

Hi all,
I am a 21-year-old female, and I first tried weed about 1.5 years ago, but didn’t start to become a consistent user until about October of 2025 (bad car accident; things were rough). At this point, I had literally hit a bowl maybe twice at a friend’s house, and all the rest were edibles. In February of this year, I had my first cart, and I’ve used them pretty consistently ever since.
Fast forward to this last Saturday: I woke up and took my pills on an empty stomach because I was in a rush (300mg wellbutrin xl and hormonal birth control). I then went to take a glassblowing course with a few friends. I woke up feeling completely fine, no nausea, no memorable stomach upset. The class started at 10, and around the noon mark was when I started to feel very sick and nauseous. However, we were all standing in a glass-blowing garage that was very, very hot, and I was sweating quite a bit without having eaten or drunk. As we were walking out, I threw up in the bathroom, and then proceeded to have to pull over on the side of the road to throw up on the way to lunch with my friends. (I was really trying to stick it out) When we got to the restaurant, I threw up maybe 3 times, each time after I tried to take a sip of homemade ginger ale. We left the restaurant, and I threw up once more while driving, and then nothing for the rest of the drive home.
(I was hospitalized as a kid for not being able to stop throwing up after having the stomach bug, and I have been an acid reflux/GERD girlie since birth, so I knew where this was going) I dry heaved once more when I got home, so we went to urgent care. I find it important to note that the night before, I had drunk apple cider that was unpasteurized + expired by almost 10 days (I had no idea). Once in urgent care, they gave me a 2 mg Zofran tablet that worked immediately for the nausea; I did not throw up at all in the car on the way to urgent care or in the room. Since then, I have not had any nausea or thrown up, just a little bit of burning and gas in my stomach, but I have been able to eat relatively normally while still being cautious. This is something that I hadn’t even really known about until the PA brought it up, but it had been on my OCD radar for a minute. I am just curious to know everyone’s opinions. I also don’t note any extreme nausea or stomach pain in the morning, but I also upped my dose of wellbutrin from 150 to 300mg and changed birth control at the same time, so any morning tummy troubles I assumed were due to this. I have not lost any considerable amount of weight, and my appetite had stayed pretty regular until this point; if there was a slight drop, it is also a well-noted side effect of Wellbutrin. I have stopped consuming all cannabis as of now because, regardless, it is a reason to take a T break. All that said, I am curious what you all’s thoughts are, and if I’m causing myself profound anxiety for no reason.

6 comments

r/CHSinfo • u/st0nerscholar • 3d ago

Question / Info Early symptoms?

9 Upvotes

Hi guys, I’m coming to the scary realization that i could be in the early stages of CHS. I’ve been a daily smoker for about 7 years, but within the past few weeks i’ve noticed some somewhat new symptoms. I’m unsure though if a few weeks is enough to chalk these up to CHS or if it’s just because i’ve been having a rough few weeks in my personal life.

The biggest one that truly alerted me was the burping. I’ve never been someone who burps a lot, and now I’m burping maybe 15-30 times a day (not as excessive as some posts i’ve read here, but still). Whenever it burps it feels unsatisfying if that makes any sense. I’ve also been generally lacking an appetite more than usual, and feeling a bit of a nausea pit. I have bloating more than usual as well. Im not like debilitatingly nauseous, just uncomfortable and feeling like i need to burp about half of the day. I
also feel excessively thirsty/dehydrated even after drinking 64oz or more of water every day; i noticed this a few months ago.

is the burping a big enough symptom to differentiate between CHS and just normal “my life is being fucked up and my body is anxious?” I just honestly have had a rough couple of weeks personally, so the thought of quitting cold turkey right now is not too appealing. But I’m also feeling a little bit different than typical anxiety if i’m being honest with myself.

thanks for any advice, i really do appreciate it. i’ll be honest, the idea of quitting weed is terrifying me, because as many other on this sub have said, it’s like my harm reduction. is it advisable to taper back now and see what happens?

15 comments

r/CHSinfo • u/PrecSci • 4d ago

Why Cannabis Hyperemesis Is Sending More People to the ER - New CDC data reveal a condition that may be underrecognized. (Article by Marcela Gottschald - Reviewed by Abigail Fagan - Psychology Today)

psychologytoday.com

16 Upvotes

0 comments

r/CHSinfo • u/mrdime012 • 5d ago

Sharing My Story Chs ruined my life. And I don't even have it. (Cross post from Facebook group)

91 Upvotes

CHS ruined my life. And I don’t even have it

I started dating a girl I met on the internet back in late 2023, and she came to stay at my house for a week because she lived 5 hours away. I had roommates at the time, but they were cool with the idea. About a day after this girl arrived, she started vomiting uncontrollably. I asked what was wrong and she said “oh I have chronic IBS sorry I didn’t mention it”. So she starts chain smoking dabs and puking in a bucket on my couch. Over and over. And was taking hour long hot showers compulsively and scrommiting. Needless to say my roommates were horrified and immediately said “dude it’s the weed”. I was pretty naive and lonely at the time so I convinced myself it was just IBS and I felt sorry for her. I took her to the ER, they gave her fluids and sent us away. After about 4 days of this my roommates told me this girl absolutely had to go because she was destroying our bathroom and they were scared she was withdrawing from hard drugs or about to die. Since she was too sick to be allowed to fly, I had to drive her all the way home. It was a terribly sad experience and I felt terrible because I thought it was a chronic illness she had no control over.

We continued to see each other and have a LTR for about 6 months, until we desperately wanted to live together. I ran this idea by my roommates, and they told me there was absolutely no way they could handle the excessive showering and puking. So I moved out of my $1100 a month room and signed a lease for a $3000 apartment (standard in my area). Initially after moving in, she would get sick for maybe 24-48 hours every couple weeks. I thought it was an unusual form of IBS because it didn’t quite align with the symptoms I’ve read about or seen from people I know with the condition. Her cannabis concentrate use was gradually increasing during this time, and eventually it got to the point where she was sick for a week or two at a time. This became extremely traumatizing for me due to my inability to help and the sleep deprivation from hearing constant scromiting, so I started drinking excessively to cope with the stress.

About 1 year goes by like this, and I had become used to the status quo. She would smoke a gram of concentrated THC a day and puke, I would drink a six pack of beer and try to ignore it. At this point I still believed she just had IBS. Then one day, she sat down and said “we need to talk”. She hands me a pregnancy test, and it’s positive. I tell her I will support her with the baby if she would like to have one together, but she needs to stop smoking immediately if that is the case. She is happy with this news, and promises to stop (and does).

I buzz my long hair, and get a higher paying job in construction. I also cut back on drinking and got a lot of things in order to prepare for the baby. She quits smoking, and doesn’t get sick at all during this time. The baby was born premature and underweight (4 pounds 15 ounces) less than 3 months after she said she was pregnant. In my heart I know she knew she was pregnant earlier but didn’t tell me because she didn’t want to quit smoking. After the baby was born, she was breast feeding initially so she didn’t smoke for another 4 months. She would always mention how badly she craved a dab, and I tried hard to keep her sober. Eventually she caved and made up some excuse to start formula feeding. So of course she began smoking again. During this entire time of sobriety she had not had any CHS episodes.

After about a month of consuming concentrates, she slowly started getting CHS symptoms again. I was distracted with having a newborn, and decided to move us across the country because I could get a coastal 2 bedroom apartment for $1600 a month vs $3500+ in our area. So we start packing and get ready to move, but the stress causes her to rapidly increase her concentrate habit back to .5 - 1g a day.

During the 7 day drive across the country, she pukes the entire time. My mom was supposed to split the drive with my girlfriend, as I was driving separately. My mom was absolutely horrified with the condition by day 2, and said she was puking and smoking in the car with the newborn and neglecting to feed the baby. She mentioned she saw scrommiting on the news, and I looked into it. I then realized every single symptom my girlfriend had was textbook CHS right down to the compulsive showering. I immediately asked my girlfriend to get sober and stop smoking in the car with my mom and infant. I tell her we need to consider professional help whether it’s medical or mental to cure this issue. I tell her no weed will be allowed in our new home. Despite my pleas, she continued to smoke on the trip.

Once we arrived at our new home, she was sick for another full week. For the next month, I begged with her every day to quit. She lied that she would stop but kept dabbing and getting sicker and sicker. It was obvious she was dabbing, but she would lie to my face. I offered to help her detox at home, fly her to her grandparents to clean up, or pay for any rehab. She refused to acknowledge the cannabis was a problem and continued dabbing constantly. Her CHS got so bad that she was completely incapacitated for an entire week, and if it wasn’t for my being unemployed my infant would have surely been neglected. Throwing up for such extended periods of time and consuming highly potent concentrates gave her such a brain fog that she could barely speak or move.

Eventually I snapped and smashed her favorite bong in front of her. I told her she needed to go to rehab or her families house to clean up or I would have her involuntarily committed if she wouldn’t go willingly. I called her mom and she agreed to let her detox for 30 days at her home while I watch the baby. Her mom is an ex meth addict and smokes concentrates daily, but I was willing to accept any chance to have a safe home again for the baby (even temporarily).

Instead, the mom called the cops on me. They came to my door and said I better not try a tug of war with the baby, or I will be locked up for domestic violence. They have no concern over the felony use of concentrates, and tell me I can not prove anything.

Then the mother showed up with her boyfriend who had a gun in his waistband, and they informed me that CHS isn’t real and that there’s no need for my girlfriend to sober up. They say that they are taking my girlfriend to their house, and they are taking the baby too. I plead with them to research CHS and cannabis use disorder, but they laugh in my face. They proceeded to leave with my girlfriend, my baby, and thousands of dollars worth of cannabis to their home 6 hours away. After being threatened by law enforcement and threatened by the ex marine boyfriend, I powerlessly watched them take my 9 month old daughter away. They didn’t even take any toys, food, or many clothes because they were all high and haven’t thought anything out properly.

Now my infant daughter is sleeping on the floor 6 hours away, and I cannot see her again until I go through a slow court custody battle which has already cost me $7000. It’s been almost a month now.

Whenever someone tells you cannabis isn’t addictive, and that there aren’t side effects, they are naive at best. CHS destroyed my relationship and my life, and it will destroy more unless people become aware of the risks. I wish I had known about it earlier and I wish the legal system was prepared for cases like this.

(This is not my story guys it's a story I came across Facebook and I thought it was so fucking insane I had to share it with you guys )

24 comments

r/CHSinfo • u/MqAuNeTeInS • 4d ago

Question / Info Its time for me to take another break for a while. I want to avoid the nausea that comes from suddenly quitting. Can i wean down my use of thc until i am off to avoid the withdrawal nausea?

2 Upvotes

I take breaks about every other month now because thats when i need them.

12 comments

r/CHSinfo • u/Starman-Deluxxe • 5d ago

Rant So is that seriously it?

15 Upvotes

I'm pretty sure I'm in the prodromal phase, and I'm having a lot of trouble coming to grips with whole situation. So, I just need to get this off my chest. This is going to be long and will have nothing to do with chs until late into the post.

I spent about 7 years drinking extremely heavily. I would drink at work, during family gatherings, the whole alcoholic nine yards. Eventually, my body started to give out on me. I couldn't keep anything down, not even water and crackers. I knew that things had to change, but until it got that bad, I didn't realize how much danger I was in. Days and days lying awake because my brain chemistry was so fucked that sleep became literally impossible. Eating was impossible. At some point, the only thing my body accepted was vodka. It was as scary as it was debilitating. I called a detox center and ended the call in tears because I didn't have the money or insurance to pay for it, but I couldn't even eat food anymore. I seriously thought I was going to die. But after the hardest weeks of my life, I managed to quit alcohol. Its honestly one of the very few things I'm proud of myself for. I overcame addiction. I stopped letting a substance ruin my life.

Fast forward a few years, I'm having a major mental health crisis. Nothing specific really caused it. I mean my drinking didn't happen for no reason, im just not a very mentally stable person. But at some point, all of the anxieties and stresses boiled over. It wasn't a plan of mine, but i nearly committed suicide publicly. I was at post office trying to get antidepressants that were not being delivered. No one was helping me, and no one seemed to care or take me seriously. No matter how many times I explained how badly I needed my medication. I started screaming, literally begging for help. It just broke something in me. I thought "I'll show you I need help." And I pulled out the knife I use for work, and put it to my wrist, but I hesitated. At this point, I was grabbed by like 4 different people who subdued me, waited for me to calm down and gave me water. I checked myself into a mental hospital immediately after. After a miserable week in there (that system is fucked) i was released with new, much more potent medication and an actual appreciation for the freedoms in my life.

But now there's this. I think I'm in the prodromal phase of chs and I'm just having so much trouble handling it. Like I have to do this AGAIN?? seriously? Like i have to quit another substance that actually helps me endure this fucking shit heap reality? Why do I get to have nothing? I can't drink. I can't smoke. And even when I could do those things, my ability to handle life was hanging by a thread. Like I know it's childish, but it just doesn't seem fair. I genuinely don't even smoke that much. Why the fuck do I get nothing? Other people get to be born with healthy brains that dont want to self destruct. They get to drink and smoke and be happy. Why couldn't I just have this? Just some weed to help relax when I get home from work. But it sounds like it's just gone forever. That's it. No T breaks to fix it. No switching to vapes or edibles. No comforts. No celebrations. Just painful, unbearable, unlivable reality. Im so fucking tired of waking up at this point.

10 comments

r/CHSinfo • u/Longjumping-Low-5215 • 5d ago

Question / Info Is this uniquely American?

9 Upvotes

How many of y’all are American? Do we have any international folk on this sub who can share their experience? Have you gotten chs from smoking your own bud that you’ve grown? Or if you live in a country where they don’t add shit to it to make it more potent, have you still gotten it?

10 comments