Improving the diagnosis of cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome 

In Summary

A recent op-ed has recommended a method to diagnose cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) accurately and quickly. Although awareness of CHS is quickly growing parallel to the legalization and public approval of cannabis use, patients continue to receive a late diagnosis. Cannabis use should always be questioned in patients who suffer from chronic vomiting and intestinal pain where the origin of the pain is uncertain. A urinalysis panel should also be conducted when CHS is interrogated, even in patients who previously denied cannabis use. Adding these steps into common emergency room practices should improve the accuracy and timing of CHS diagnosis. 

 This article highlights the growing field of synthetic cannabinoids and how that affects the general public. Online shops have increased the ease and availability of synthetic cannabinoids and cannabis seedlings which has led many to cultivate the crops at home. The increase in at home cultivation has led to a higher number of occurrences of CHS which has led to the development of better treatment but now needs to include the development of better diagnostic techniques. Those cultivating at home or increasing their use should be mindful of developing CHS.