Julia Unger, a 19-year-old from Denver, Colorado, never expected that her efforts to manage her mental health with cannabis would lead to a worsening condition. Suffering from anxiety and depression since high school, she turned to smoking marijuana up to 5 times a day for relief. However, in 2018, she started experiencing severe nausea, stomach pains, and vomiting that only got worse over time.
Despite frequent emergency room visits, it took months before Unger was referred to a specialist who diagnosed her with cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome. Initially skeptical, she finally accepted the diagnosis after researching the condition online and decided to quit cannabis cold turkey. Since then, she has been feeling much better.
Unger’s experience is not unique. Research by Dr. Andrew A. Monte and his team at the University of Colorado School of Medicine revealed that a significant number of emergency room visits in Colorado were related to cannabis use, with cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome being a common reason. This condition, characterized by symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, often affects long-term cannabis users.
Another important finding from the research was the impact of edible cannabis products, which led to a high rate of hospital visits for acute psychiatric and cardiovascular symptoms. The slower response time of ingested products can catch users off guard, emphasizing the need for caution.
It’s crucial to be aware of the potential risks associated with cannabis use and to seek medical advice if experiencing any unusual symptoms. Educating users about these risks and promoting responsible consumption can help prevent similar situations in the future.
