Gastroparesis is a condition where the stomach’s ability to empty its contents into the small intestine is delayed. While cannabis does not directly cause traditional gastroparesis, chronic and heavy cannabis use can lead to Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS), which often presents with similar symptoms. This article explores the differences and connections between these conditions.
What is Gastroparesis?
Gastroparesis, meaning “stomach paralysis,” is a disorder affecting the stomach’s nerves and muscles, impairing its ability to move food into the small intestine. This delay means food remains in the stomach longer. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, bloating, and feeling full quickly or for extended periods.
Nerve damage, particularly to the vagus nerve, is a common cause. Diabetes is a frequent cause, leading to diabetic gastroparesis when high blood sugar damages nerves. Other causes include viral infections, post-surgical complications, certain medications, and sometimes the cause is unknown (idiopathic gastroparesis).
Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome Explained
Chronic and heavy cannabis use can result in Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS), a condition that mimics gastroparesis symptoms. CHS is characterized by cyclical episodes of severe nausea, intense vomiting, and abdominal pain. It affects individuals who have used cannabis frequently and long-term.
The exact mechanism behind CHS is not fully understood, but chronic exposure to cannabinoids, like THC, is believed to alter cannabinoid receptor function throughout the gastrointestinal tract and nervous system. This prolonged stimulation can disrupt gut motility and lead to severe vomiting. CHS progresses through phases: a prodromal phase with morning nausea and abdominal discomfort, followed by a hyperemetic phase with severe, persistent vomiting. A distinctive feature of CHS is temporary symptom relief through frequent hot showers or baths.
Diagnosis and Treatment Approaches
Diagnosing Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome involves reviewing a patient’s symptoms and detailed cannabis use history. Healthcare providers conduct physical exams and may order tests to rule out other causes of severe nausea and vomiting, such as blood tests, imaging studies, or endoscopy. A diagnosis of CHS is supported if symptoms resolve with sustained abstinence from cannabis.
The definitive treatment for CHS is complete cessation of all cannabis use. Symptoms improve within days to a few weeks after quitting, though full resolution can take up to 90 days as THC clears from the body. During acute episodes, supportive care, including intravenous fluids for dehydration and anti-nausea medications, is provided. Hot showers and baths are a common self-treatment for symptom relief, and some find temporary relief from topical capsaicin cream. Individuals experiencing these symptoms should seek medical advice and be transparent about their cannabis use for accurate diagnosis and management.