As cannabis becomes more widely legalized and available, its use among adolescents has grown and so have concerns about Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS). While cannabis is often perceived as harmless or even therapeutic for conditions like anxiety and pain, emerging research shows that in some young people, chronic and heavy use can trigger this condition, which consists of cycles of frequent, severe nausea and vomiting. In its most extreme form, this can lead to what social media has dubbed “scromiting” a distressing combination of screaming and vomiting.
For parents and youth themselves, understanding these risks is essential. Below, we explore what the science says about CHS, why youth may be particularly vulnerable, and how to recognize and address symptoms early.
What Is Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome?
Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) is a medical condition characterized by recurrent episodes of severe nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain in individuals who use cannabis frequently over long periods of time. First described in 2004 by Allen et al. in a study published in Gut, CHS has become increasingly recognized as cannabis potency has risen and regular use among youth has increased.
Symptoms often follow a pattern, including three phases with corresponding symptoms:
- Prodromal phase: Early morning nausea, fear of vomiting, abdominal discomfort.
- Hyperemetic phase: Intense vomiting, sometimes dozens of times per day, dehydration, compulsive hot showers (which temporarily relieve symptoms).
- Recovery phase: Symptoms stop several days after cessation of cannabis use but return if use resumes.
Adolescents, whose brains and regulatory systems are still developing, are more vulnerable to the negative effects of cannabis, including risks related to CHS. Key brain regions involved in decision-making, emotional regulation, memory, and reward processing are still maturing, which can contribute to heavier use patterns that increase CHS risk. Studies also show that the THC concentrations in products commonly used by youth are significantly higher than in traditional cannabis flower, further elevating the likelihood of adverse reactions such as CHS.
Why Is CHS Becoming More Common in Youth?
1. Higher Potency Cannabis Products
Today’s cannabis products often contain two to five times the THC levels found in cannabis used in the 1990s and early 2000s. Concentrates can exceed 70–90% THC. Higher potency correlates strongly with increased risk of CHS.
2. More Frequent, Daily Use
Cannabis vaping has risen sharply among adolescents, with national surveys showing a rapid increase in both past-month and daily use, reflecting growing access to high-potency vaping products and shifting perceptions of harm.
3. Misconceptions About Safety
Because cannabis is natural or medically legal, many teens perceive it as safe yet research shows these perceptions contribute to increased use and greater exposure to risks such as dependence, impaired cognitive functioning, and other health consequences.
The Dangers of CHS and How to Prevent It
CHS can lead to severe medical complications when not recognized early. During acute episodes, young people may experience intense and repeated vomiting, sometimes dozens of times per day, which can cause:
- Serious dehydration
- Electrolyte imbalances
- Low blood pressure and dizziness
- Kidney injury in severe cases
A common red flag is compulsive hot bathing, which temporarily relieves symptoms because of cannabis’ effects on the body’s temperature regulation.
Preventing CHS: What Parents and Youth Should Know
Prevention relies on awareness, early recognition, and reducing or stopping cannabis use—especially high-potency products, which is the only proven way to treat the condition. Key steps include:
- Know the early warning signs: persistent nausea, repeated vomiting without another explanation, and relief from hot showers.
- Pay attention to cannabis patterns: CHS is strongly associated with frequent or long-term use, particularly of concentrates and high-THC items.
- Act quickly: If symptoms appear, seek medical care right away. Prompt treatment can prevent dehydration and more serious complications.
- Encourage honesty with healthcare providers: Accurate information about cannabis use is essential for proper diagnosis and safe care.
- Support cessation: Symptoms generally resolve when cannabis use stops. For many youth, guidance from a pediatrician, therapist, or substance-use counselor can make this process smoother and safer.
By recognizing risks early and taking steps to reduce or discontinue cannabis use, individuals can significantly lower the likelihood of CHS progressing to a medical emergency.
The Only Proven Treatment: Stopping Cannabis Use
There is currently no medication that cures CHS. Research shows that the only reliable way to stop symptoms is to fully discontinue cannabis use, at least temporarily. Most people improve within days, but symptoms can return quickly if use resumes before the body has recovered. While cannabis itself is not inherently harmful, CHS is a clear sign that the body needs a break, and learning to use cannabis responsibly, if choosing to return to it, can help prevent recurrence. Support may include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), substance-use counseling, family support, or referrals to adolescent treatment programs.
