A Growing Health Crisis Among Chronic Marijuana Users: The Rise of 'Scromiting'
In a concerning turn of events, the World Health Organization (WHO) has recognized a severe vomiting condition affecting chronic marijuana users. This syndrome, dubbed "scromiting," has been gaining attention in recent years, particularly among younger adults.
The symptoms of cannabis hyperemesis syndrome (CHS), also known as scromiting, are nothing short of debilitating. Patients experience intense cycles of abdominal pain and vomiting that can last for days, often triggered by the use of cannabis. The condition is usually characterized by recurring bouts of nausea, abdominal pain, and a desperate need to scream β hence the online nickname "scromiting."
Researchers have long struggled to pinpoint the prevalence of CHS due to underreporting and misdiagnosis with other gastrointestinal issues. However, with the WHO's new diagnostic code for CHS in its International Classification of Diseases manual, healthcare providers can now more accurately diagnose and track this growing health concern.
According to experts, scromiting typically develops after years of frequent cannabis use, but not everyone who uses marijuana regularly will experience it. The onset varies significantly from person to person, with some experiencing symptoms immediately after use while others may go through periods without any issues.
While the exact cause of CHS remains unclear, researchers suspect that higher THC potency in modern cannabis products and increased accessibility could contribute to its rise. With most cannabis products now boasting THC levels above 20%, the risk of scromiting appears to be on the rise.
The symptoms of CHS can be severe, leading patients to visit emergency departments or hospitals repeatedly. A recent study found that nearly 33% of frequent marijuana users reported experiencing symptoms, while 85% had visited an emergency department at least once and 44% required hospitalization.
So, what's behind this growing health crisis? Dr. Chris Buresh, an emergency medicine specialist, explains that there may be a threshold for vulnerability to CHS, with some individuals starting to experience symptoms even after small amounts of cannabis use.
Fortunately, hot baths and showers can provide relief from scromiting symptoms. However, the only way to cure the condition is to completely abstain from all cannabis products. Patients with CHS often face additional complications, including dehydration, malnutrition, weight loss, tooth decay, and more severe health issues if left untreated.
As researchers continue to unravel the mysteries of scromiting, it's clear that this growing health crisis demands attention. With increased awareness and understanding, healthcare providers can better diagnose and treat CHS, ultimately saving lives and alleviating the suffering of those affected by this debilitating condition.
In a concerning turn of events, the World Health Organization (WHO) has recognized a severe vomiting condition affecting chronic marijuana users. This syndrome, dubbed "scromiting," has been gaining attention in recent years, particularly among younger adults.
The symptoms of cannabis hyperemesis syndrome (CHS), also known as scromiting, are nothing short of debilitating. Patients experience intense cycles of abdominal pain and vomiting that can last for days, often triggered by the use of cannabis. The condition is usually characterized by recurring bouts of nausea, abdominal pain, and a desperate need to scream β hence the online nickname "scromiting."
Researchers have long struggled to pinpoint the prevalence of CHS due to underreporting and misdiagnosis with other gastrointestinal issues. However, with the WHO's new diagnostic code for CHS in its International Classification of Diseases manual, healthcare providers can now more accurately diagnose and track this growing health concern.
According to experts, scromiting typically develops after years of frequent cannabis use, but not everyone who uses marijuana regularly will experience it. The onset varies significantly from person to person, with some experiencing symptoms immediately after use while others may go through periods without any issues.
While the exact cause of CHS remains unclear, researchers suspect that higher THC potency in modern cannabis products and increased accessibility could contribute to its rise. With most cannabis products now boasting THC levels above 20%, the risk of scromiting appears to be on the rise.
The symptoms of CHS can be severe, leading patients to visit emergency departments or hospitals repeatedly. A recent study found that nearly 33% of frequent marijuana users reported experiencing symptoms, while 85% had visited an emergency department at least once and 44% required hospitalization.
So, what's behind this growing health crisis? Dr. Chris Buresh, an emergency medicine specialist, explains that there may be a threshold for vulnerability to CHS, with some individuals starting to experience symptoms even after small amounts of cannabis use.
Fortunately, hot baths and showers can provide relief from scromiting symptoms. However, the only way to cure the condition is to completely abstain from all cannabis products. Patients with CHS often face additional complications, including dehydration, malnutrition, weight loss, tooth decay, and more severe health issues if left untreated.
As researchers continue to unravel the mysteries of scromiting, it's clear that this growing health crisis demands attention. With increased awareness and understanding, healthcare providers can better diagnose and treat CHS, ultimately saving lives and alleviating the suffering of those affected by this debilitating condition.