What is ‘Scromiting’? The Truth About This Cannabis-Related Condition
Understanding Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome
Cannabis hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) is a condition that has been reported by some individuals who use marijuana. It is characterized by severe and uncontrollable vomiting, often referred to as “scromiting” — a combination of screaming due to pain and vomiting. Medically, it is known as cannabis hyperemesis syndrome, and it primarily affects long-term, frequent users of cannabis.
What is Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome?
Cannabis hyperemesis syndrome is a gastrointestinal disorder where individuals experience recurring episodes of nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain after using cannabis. The syndrome was first recognized in 2004 when several cannabis users in southern Australia sought medical attention for persistent vomiting. A notable observation during this time was that hot showers or baths seemed to provide temporary relief to those affected.
The condition progresses through distinct phases. In the initial months, users may experience morning nausea, an urge to vomit, and general abdominal discomfort. Over time, these symptoms can escalate into severe, persistent nausea and vomiting, known as hyperemesis, along with abdominal pain that typically starts at the upper part of the abdomen and spreads throughout. This phase can last for several days and can be debilitating, with vomiting and dry heaving occurring up to five times per hour, often requiring emergency room visits.
Treatment involves managing symptoms with intravenous fluids to address dehydration and medications to alleviate nausea and pain. According to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, the only definitive treatment is to stop using marijuana entirely.
What Causes Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome?
Cannabis contains over a hundred cannabinoids, including tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). THC is responsible for the euphoric and relaxing effects, while CBD does not have psychoactive properties. These compounds interact with the endocannabinoid system, a network that helps maintain homeostasis in the body.
At low doses, cannabis can help regulate nausea and chronic pain. However, researchers believe that higher and repeated doses of cannabis may overstimulate the endocannabinoid system, leading to the symptoms associated with CHS. Some studies also suggest that cannabis might interfere with the body’s ability to regulate temperature, which could explain why hot showers or baths offer temporary relief.
Who Gets Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome?
Individuals most at risk for CHS are long-term users who consume cannabis multiple times a day. Symptoms typically appear after 10 to 12 years of continuous use, according to Cedars-Sinai. Higher rates of the condition have been observed among cigarette smokers, those who start using cannabis before age 16, and individuals with other substance use disorders.
While the exact prevalence of CHS is unknown, it was once considered rare but appears to be increasing. A 2024 study analyzing health records from California found that the annual prevalence of the condition increased by 134% to 175% over an 11-year period. Another 2020 study revealed that nearly one in five people hospitalized in the United States between 2005 and 2014 for cyclical vomiting syndrome — a broader diagnosis that includes CHS — reported using cannabis at the time. Researchers noted that this prevalence has risen significantly over the past decade, possibly due to changes in cannabis legislation and increased usage.
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