Too Much Marijuana Can Make You Unpleasantly, Dangerously Sick

Increased legalization of cannabis has led to an increase in awareness of cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) in which a person experiences persistent vomiting and nausea, and in some cases, severe abdominal pain. Many people experiencing CHS find relief in hot showers and many end up in emergency rooms when their symptoms do not abate. One emergency doctor comments that CHS, "shatters that image of cannabis only being a good thing." It is not clear why certain people are more susceptible to CHS than others, though one study found five genetic changes that might play a role. The root cause is ingestion of cannabis and the most effective treatment is "absolute avoidance."

Author: Damian McNamara, MA

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