Every marijuana user ever swears that there is no such thing as “overdosing” on weed. However, that statement is as true as it is false. Introducing the “Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome” – a horrifying medical condition caused by smoking marijuana. The following are real excerpts from serial marijuana smokers and the terrible effects it leaves behind.

Scromiting: What Is CHS?

The symptom that doctors nicknamed for this side effect of smoking marijuana are “scromiting” – screaming and vomiting. Undoubtedly, this will make you think twice before indulging again.

Cannabinoid Hyperemesis (where “emesis” literally means “the action of vomiting”), is categorized by cyclic vomiting, uncontrollable screaming, nausea and abdominal pain.  Those who suffer from CHS resort to excessive bathing as hot baths and showers are the only means of relief. This condition is notably observed in long-term cannabis users.

The real cause of this syndrome is unknown. However, according to toxicologists, the chemical compounds present in marijuana throws off the body’s nervous system and hence causes “scromiting.”

What Classifies As Chronic Cannabis Use?

According to scientists, there is no surefire way to determine what classifies as chronic cannabis use. However, they believe that some people may have a “genetic predisposition” for CHS.

While some reports claim that users who smoke up multiple times during the day for years are susceptible to the syndrome, it is still vague. In Philadelphia, a clinical study stated that the “duration of cannabis use before the onset of symptoms was around 16 years, and the earliest symptoms had developed in a patient was after around three years of smoking weed.”

Still, that is not entirely definitive.

Taking A Hot Shower Reduces The Symptoms

Just about every victim of CHS agrees that hot showers and baths relieve the symptoms. This is technically the easiest way to know that you suffer from CHS.

In a case study, a 47-year-old patient was admitted to the hospital and having stayed in the shower from the entire day with “the exception of two 15-minute breaks for the rest of the day.” According to scientists, the hot water sidetracks the brain’s pain receptors from acting up due to cannabis smoking.

Dabs Are Often Blamed

Dabs is a highly concentrated form of marijuana which is also called shatter, was or budder. It is extracted from THC products and is sticky resin, wax or oil which requires heating before smoking. Users who are accustomed to smoking the flower buds are known to get “too high” from the use of dabs.

Most often, dabs are blamed for CHS. However, according to doctors, CHS has existed far longer than dabs have.

Cannabis Users Do Not Believe CHS

The rarity of this symptom lends itself to plenty of skepticism from a fair share of cannabis users. Doctors have reached a point of extreme frustration due to the high number of repeat patients. “A lot of times, people just don’t believe you.” Doctor Colburn says, “I can’t really tell you why. I mean, why do people ride motorcycles without helmets on?”

No Real Diagnosis Exists

There are no real tests that can be carried out to diagnose CHS. I guess, you just have to stick to checking if a hot shower cures you.

The symptoms of CHS are akin to Cyclical Vomiting Syndrome which often confuses doctors. Each of these two syndromes affects different people in varying degrees, cycles, and duration.

The Cure Exists

The cure to CHS is as simple as “stop smoking weed.” But, that is not a truth any smoker would like to hear. Cannabis though not physically addictive is psychologically so.

While doctors are on the lookout for more affirmative means of curing CHS, the best solution to resort to for now is to simply lay off the herb.

Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome And Cyclical Vomiting Syndrome Are Very Different

Despite sharing many similar qualities, the two syndromes are not interchangeable. While causes for Cyclical Vomiting Syndrome are just about as vague as CHS, they are not dependent on marijuana usage. To tell the difference, you will need to take a short break of about two weeks from smoking any marijuana. If symptoms persist, you can deduce that you, in fact, suffer from Cyclical Vomiting Syndrome. If not, then you would be suffering from CHS.

Weed is in fact, not entirely harmless. Diagnosed in 2004, the number of CHS patients appear to be growing alongside the rapid legalization of recreational cannabis. With little known about it, the syndrome appears to be rather terrifying.