The WHO adds a syndrome stemming from cannabis use

The World Health Organization (WHO) has formally recognized and added an official diagnosis code for cannabis hyperemesis syndrome (CHS), a condition affecting chronic cannabis users characterized by nausea and vomiting.

Researchers, including those at the University of Washington, have praised the change for helping identify patient trends.

CHS affects daily, long-term cannabis users, with symptoms typically appearing after several years of use. The only known cure is discontinuing cannabis use, though symptoms may temporarily ease with hot baths or showers.

The condition can involve severe pain, sometimes described as “scromiting” (screaming and vomiting), and has been linked to serious complications, including kidney failure and heart rhythm abnormalities.

The WHO move comes as rising legalization and potency of marijuana are contributing to a jump in cannabis-related emergency room visits among older adults, according to medical experts.

The potency of THC in cannabis products has risen dramatically, increasing from approximately 5% in the 1960s to reaching 40% today, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse.

Experts point out that normalizing marijuana use is also fueling a misconception that cannabis is not addictive, causing fewer people to seek medical help.