Study Reveals Rising Cases of Cannabis-Induced ‘Scromiting’

A recent study from the University of Illinois Chicago has revealed a concerning increase in cases of cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS), commonly referred to as “scromiting,” among American cannabis users. The research indicates that emergency department visits for this condition, characterized by severe vomiting and abdominal pain, have surged in recent years, particularly among younger adults.

The study analyzed emergency department data from across the United States between 2016 and 2022. Researchers found approximately 100,000 cases of suspected CHS, with a marked increase following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Prior to 2020, the annual rates of CHS remained steady. However, from that point onward, emergency visits for the syndrome rose sharply, suggesting a significant public health concern.

Understanding Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome

CHS presents with cyclical episodes of intense nausea, vomiting, and abdominal cramps. An acute episode can last from one to two days, during which individuals often experience extreme discomfort, leading to the term “scromiting,” a blend of “screaming” and “vomiting.” This syndrome primarily affects those who have consumed cannabis regularly for several years.

The exact cause of CHS remains unclear, but researchers believe it may be linked to the overstimulation of cannabinoid receptors in the gastrointestinal tract. Despite being considered a rare condition, its prevalence appears to have increased in locations where cannabis has been legalized.

The research team examined emergency department records and utilized diagnoses related to cyclical vomiting syndrome alongside cannabis use as a proxy for CHS, as the condition was not officially recognized until recently. The findings were published in JAMA Network Open on October 16, 2023.

The Impact of COVID-19 and Cannabis Legalization

The study’s authors, including lead researcher James Swartz, suggest that various factors may have contributed to this increase. They note that the COVID-19 pandemic likely exacerbated mental health issues and increased cannabis consumption, which could explain the rise in CHS cases. While cases did decline in 2022, they remained above pre-pandemic levels.

The report highlights that even as general cannabis-related health issues have risen, instances of cyclical vomiting unrelated to cannabis use have not shown similar increases. This correlation further supports the argument that CHS is becoming more common among cannabis users.

According to the researchers, “The COVID-19 pandemic likely catalyzed the rise in CHS through stress, isolation, and increased cannabis use.” They emphasize the importance of greater clinical awareness to ensure timely diagnosis, as many healthcare providers may still be unfamiliar with CHS.

Treatment for CHS involves stopping cannabis use, which may take several weeks for symptoms to subside. Interestingly, hot baths or showers have been noted to provide temporary relief during acute episodes.

While the rise in CHS cases is alarming, the authors stress that it remains a relatively uncommon side effect. “Our findings shouldn’t be interpreted as a reason to panic, but they do reinforce that cannabis is not risk-free, especially at higher doses and with long-term, heavy use,” Swartz stated.

In a significant development for the medical community, CHS was officially added to the latest edition of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD), facilitating better diagnosis and tracking. Nevertheless, the study underscores the necessity for continued research to fully understand the mechanisms behind CHS and why it affects only certain long-term cannabis users.

As the conversation around cannabis continues to evolve, this study serves as a reminder of the potential health risks associated with its use, particularly for those consuming it frequently over extended periods.