Cannabis users drive surge in cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome cases at Philadelphia-area ERs
Updated
Updated · The Philadelphia Inquirer · May 1
Cannabis users drive surge in cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome cases at Philadelphia-area ERs
13 articles · Updated · The Philadelphia Inquirer · May 1
Beyond Jefferson’s 300 cases, Temple, St Christopher’s, Nemours, Virtua and Cooper doctors report rising CHS visits across Philadelphia, South Jersey and Delaware, including repeat patients and teens.
Doctors link the increase to stronger THC products and wider legal access, with hallmark symptoms including severe vomiting, abdominal pain and relief from hot showers or baths.
CHS can cause dehydration, electrolyte imbalance and malnutrition; doctors say the only cure is stopping cannabis, while symptoms and withdrawal-like effects may persist for months.
Why are thousands of cannabis users developing a violent vomiting syndrome from a plant once considered harmless?
Beyond vomiting, is today’s high-potency cannabis creating a hidden epidemic of psychosis in young users?