Cannabis-Related Vomiting Syndrome Is Rising: What the Latest ER Data Shows

Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, commonly known as CHS, is drawing increased attention as emergency departments report a sharp rise in visits associated with the condition. A recent report from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that CHS-related emergency room visits increased substantially after a dedicated diagnosis code became available in October 2025.

The findings are particularly notable among teenagers and young adults, as well as women. Researchers say changing patterns of cannabis consumption, including more frequent use and the availability of higher-potency THC products, may be contributing to the trend.

What Is Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome?

Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome is a medical condition associated with frequent cannabis use. It can cause repeated episodes of severe nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Some patients report temporary relief from symptoms after taking hot showers or baths.

The condition can be difficult to recognize because its symptoms overlap with other gastrointestinal illnesses. The CDC notes that CHS received its own medical diagnosis code in October 2025. Before that change, researchers generally had to identify suspected cases using broader codes related to vomiting and cannabis use.

That coding change may have helped physicians and researchers recognize and document CHS more consistently.

Emergency Visits Have Increased Sharply

CDC researchers examined 199,565 emergency department visits associated with CHS between January 2023 and May 2026. The analysis covered 3,636 emergency departments that continuously reported data throughout the study period.

Before the new diagnosis code was introduced, CHS was identified in approximately three out of every 10,000 emergency department visits in September 2025. In October, the rate rose to about 11 visits per 10,000.

From October 2025 through May 2026, the average was nearly 12 CHS-related visits per 10,000 emergency department visits. That represented approximately 3.7 times the earlier monthly average of about three per 10,000 visits.

The increase does not necessarily mean that every additional case represents a newly developed illness. Improved recognition and documentation following the introduction of a specific diagnosis code may also have contributed to the higher recorded rate.

Young People Face Particular Concern

The CDC report identified people ages 15 to 24 as having the highest recorded rate of CHS-related emergency visits, at nearly 39 visits per 10,000 emergency department visits.

Women also had a slightly higher recorded rate than men.

Researchers point to several possible explanations for the pattern. Cannabis use has become more common among some young people, while cannabis products can contain substantially higher concentrations of THC than products available in previous decades.

More frequent consumption may also increase the risk of developing CHS. The CDC identifies frequent cannabis use as an important risk factor.

A separate 2025 study published in JAMA Network Open examined CHS-related emergency visits among patients ages 13 to 21 at 48 children's hospitals. Researchers identified 4,571 related visits between 2016 and 2023 and found that the rate increased more than tenfold during the study period. The median patient age was 17.

The researchers suggested that younger patients may be particularly vulnerable because some begin using cannabis at younger ages, use it more frequently, consume high-potency THC products, or use methods such as vaping and dabbing.

Why Higher-Potency Cannabis Matters

THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the primary intoxicating compound in cannabis. According to the CDC, THC concentrations in cannabis products have increased over time.

Higher-potency products can make it easier for users to consume larger amounts of THC. Researchers have associated high-potency cannabis with continued and more frequent use among adolescents and young adults.

This is important because frequent cannabis consumption is considered a major risk factor for cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome.

The relationship between cannabis exposure and CHS is still being studied. However, the growing number of emergency department visits has increased awareness among medical professionals and the public.

Symptoms Should Not Be Ignored

CHS can involve repeated and severe vomiting, nausea, and abdominal discomfort. Persistent vomiting can result in dehydration and other serious complications.

Medical reviews have reported that repeated vomiting associated with CHS can contribute to acute kidney injury. Although rare, severe complications can become dangerous without appropriate medical treatment.

Hot showers or baths may provide temporary symptom relief for some people, but this does not address the underlying cause. Research indicates that stopping cannabis use is the best-supported approach for preventing recurring CHS episodes.

Anyone experiencing severe or persistent vomiting, significant abdominal pain, confusion, weakness, or signs of dehydration should seek medical attention. Emergency symptoms should not automatically be attributed to cannabis because other potentially serious conditions can produce similar symptoms.

What the New Findings Mean

The latest CDC findings highlight two important developments: CHS may be occurring more frequently, and doctors may now be better equipped to identify it.

The introduction of a dedicated diagnosis code makes it easier to track the syndrome in health records and public health data. At the same time, the increase in reported cases corresponds with broader concerns about cannabis use, frequent consumption, and higher THC potency.

The CDC says the findings demonstrate a need for greater awareness of CHS among healthcare professionals and the public. The agency also emphasizes prevention strategies aimed at reducing cannabis use and limiting its potential health consequences.

For parents, educators, healthcare providers, and young people, understanding the warning signs can be an important part of recognizing the condition early.

Final Takeaway

Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome is becoming an increasingly visible issue in emergency medicine. CDC data show a significant rise in documented CHS-related emergency department visits, with the highest recorded rate among people ages 15 to 24.

The rise may reflect both increasing cannabis exposure and improved recognition following the introduction of a specific diagnosis code. Higher-potency THC products and frequent cannabis use are also important factors researchers are examining.

While more research is needed to understand the long-term trends, the message for people experiencing recurrent vomiting is clear: severe symptoms should receive medical attention, and people who suspect CHS should discuss cannabis use openly with a healthcare professional.

Sources: U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome-Associated Emergency Department Visits, August 2026; JAMA Network Open, 2025 study of CHS-related emergency visits among adolescents and young adults; Journal of Medical Toxicology reviews on cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome.

Disclaimer: This article is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice, does not diagnose or treat any condition, and should not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. Anyone experiencing severe or persistent vomiting or other concerning symptoms should seek appropriate medical care.