How Long Does It Take to Recover From Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS)?

Key Points

Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome, also called cannabis hyperemesis syndrome or CHS, is a condition that many may confuse or misunderstand. Many suffer from repeated cycles (often quite significantly) of nausea, frequent vomiting, and abdominal pains, and feel that they are growing exhausted from the inability to contain these cycles of chronic nausea and vomiting, which cause intense emotional discomfort.[1]

Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome occurs in a group of affected individuals, those who have been long-term, habitual cannabis users. This indicates that those with CHS experience multiple episodes of severe nausea and vomiting and abdominal discomfort. This pattern of behaviour is one factor that healthcare providers use to differentiate CHS from many other gastrointestinal syndromes.

The most critical factor for most people suffering from CHS is typically related to the amount of time required to recover from this syndrome. In addition, it is common for many individuals to seek additional information regarding how long CHS lasts following their decision to quit using cannabis, or whether CHS goes away completely.

What Causes Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome?

CHS is primarily connected to chronic use of cannabis. It has long been assumed that medicinal use of cannabis helps treat nausea induced by disease, yet through further study, it has been found that repeated use over a long period of time by a few people who are cannabis dependent may result in increased nausea effects. It has been shown through ongoing studies that marijuana consumption continually influences individuals, along with other substances consumed chronically, to remain primarily based on the consumption of cannabinoids [2]. A valid hypothesis for how this physiological incident occurs is that the endocannabinoid system fails to function correctly over an extended period.

Phases of CHS

There are three stages of CHS, including a prodromal phase characterized by early symptoms of morning nausea or stomach discomfort, fear of vomiting, and continued use of cannabis. The second stage, the hyperemetic phase, is characterized by intermittent bouts of intense, repeated vomiting and constant nausea, abdominal pain, and dehydration, for which a hot shower or bath may offer temporary relief [1]. The recovery phase is where the individual’s symptoms gradually resolve after total cessation of all cannabis use.

A diagnosis of CHS is typically made based on clinical history, symptom patterns, and by ruling out any other potential causes; as there is no one test available to confirm CHS, the time to diagnosis may vary from one healthcare provider to another, leading to prolonged suffering.

Symptoms and Impact on Daily Life

Common symptoms of CHS include persistent nausea with episodes of recalcitrant vomiting, abdominal cramping, stomach pain, and dehydration/electrolyte imbalance. The above symptoms disrupt an affected individual’s work and personal relationships; fatigue resulting from repeated bouts of vomiting increases the individual’s risk of complications requiring a visit to an emergency department [3]. Most affected individuals exhibit some level of anxiety, frustration, and helplessness when symptoms return without signs of improvement.

Recovery Overview: What Healing From CHS Really Means

Recovery from CHS is more than just the absence of vomiting; for many individuals, it is characterised by a return to normal digestion, restored hydration, increased energy, and emotional relief from the chronic illness.

Total cessation of cannabis is the most critical piece to fully recovering from CHS, and all medical evidence confirms that only after total cessation of cannabis use do symptoms begin to subside [2]. Stopping cannabis use for any period during recovery from CHS is not sufficient to prevent the symptoms from recurring.

How Long Does It Take to Recover From Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome?

Evidence is available to answer the question of how long it will take to recover from CHS. A review of the medical literature demonstrates that approximately 4-10 days after stopping cannabis usage, there is an improvement in nausea and vomiting. Some individuals take approximately 2-5 weeks to experience some improvement in appetite, digestion, and energy [1]. Many have taken many months to recover.

Acute Symptom Resolution

Throughout the recovery phase, if necessary, seek medical assistance for dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, or significant discomfort. Lingering nausea and abdominal discomfort continue to exist during recovery, especially for those with long-term heavy cannabis usage.

Weeks to Months for Full Recovery

Several factors affect the length of recovery: The length and intensity of a person’s past cannabis usage, individual metabolism and body composition, the presence of cannabis withdrawal symptoms (irritability, disrupted sleep, etc.), and co-occurring mental health disorders.

Long-Term Considerations

When examining long-term outcomes, some people report that their symptoms resolve completely within 2-12 weeks, while others may take significantly longer [3]. Some summaries of case studies indicate that full resolution may occur after several months, depending on the case.

How Long Does CHS Last After Quitting?

After stopping cannabis use, how long do CHS symptoms last? Marijuana users seeking to identify how long CHS lasts after they stop using cannabis will find that the answer can be better represented in phases of recovery rather than depicting a definitive timeframe.

Phases of Recovery After Quitting

• Vomiting and nausea improvement – Many report improvement within 3-7 days
• Ongoing symptom resolution – Many report that ongoing symptom resolution occurs within weeks to months following cessation [3]
• Physiological recovery duration – Duration varies for individuals; The average timeframe is often 1-3+ months

These data represent averages and should not be construed as guarantees for each user’s own findings. The continuum of CHS is based on each user’s own unique experience.

Managing CHS During Recovery

Supportive care is an essential element of recovery from CHS, especially at the beginning of recovery, for example:

Supportive care includes

• Maintaining Hydration – Drink water and electrolyte solutions
• Nutrition – Smaller, gentler meals depending on your level of tolerance
• Avoiding triggers – cannabis and particular foods
• Prioritizing rest and sleep hygiene

If the rate of vomiting is severe, persistent, and accompanied by dehydration, heart arrhythmias, or confusion, you should seek medical treatment. Medical detoxification may be recommended as a more secure way to manage withdrawal symptoms through professional supervision.

Cannabis Withdrawal vs. CHS Recovery

Distincting between ongoing CHS and cannabis withdrawal may be difficult, as cannabis withdrawal can produce similar but distinct symptoms compared to CHS. Cannabis withdrawal symptoms include sleep disruptions, anxiety or irritability, changes in appetite, and malaise (i.e., uneasiness).

Withdrawal symptoms are at their peak at 1 week after quitting and generally begin to resolve as time passes [4]. Distinguishing between withdrawal effects and CHS recurrences is essential for individuals to reduce the confusion of withdrawal as a return of CHS.

Preventing Recurrence of CHS

The best method for preventing a return to CHS is total abstinence from cannabis. Studies represented by Recovered have consistently demonstrated that returning to using cannabis is a significant contributing factor to the relapse of symptoms for many individuals [2]. Long-term prevention strategies include:

• Developing Coping Skills for Stress and Cravings
• Participating in Behavior Therapy (CBT) to assist in identifying and changing undesirable behaviors
• Building a Support Network Among Family/Friends/Professionals
• Addressing Any Co-occurring Mental Health Disorders along with Patterns of Substance Usage

Support and Treatment Context

Holistic Approach to Recovery

The approach to the treatment of CHS often includes a physical, nutritional, and behavioral component to aid in the recovery of individuals. Evidence-based treatment protocols are designed to support the recovery process of individuals and to obtain long-term recovery success.

Role of Structured Programs and Supportive Environments (Living)

For individuals who have made long-term commitments to abstaining from cannabis and other drugs, structured environments can help them maintain stability and build self-efficacy. Examples of supportive environments are medical detox, residential care, and sober living facilities that place a high emphasis on providing safety, routine, and building community connections.

Although these are typically not considered a means of directly treating the individual’s CHS, they do create ample opportunities for individuals to identify their potential to remain abstinent and achieve their health goals. At Soba NJ, care is highly personalized for every individual in a small program that focuses on meeting physical and mental health needs and providing tools to help individuals confidently pursue independent living.

Frequently Asked Questions