Young and Vulnerable: Why Teens and College Students Need to Know About CHS

In recent years, Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) has emerged as a significant health concern among young cannabis users. As cannabis legalization expands and social acceptance grows, more teens and college students are using cannabis regularly—often unaware of the potential risk of developing this debilitating condition. This article explores why younger users may be particularly vulnerable to CHS and provides essential information for prevention, early recognition, and treatment.

The Rising Prevalence of CHS Among Younger Users

Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome is increasingly diagnosed in emergency departments across the country, with a notable concentration among users in their late teens and twenties. While CHS can affect cannabis users of any age, several factors make younger users particularly susceptible:

Earlier initiation of cannabis use during critical developmental periods
Higher frequency of use, often daily or multiple times per day
Consumption of high-potency cannabis products more common in this age group
Less awareness of potential negative health consequences
Tendency to dismiss early warning signs as unrelated to cannabis use

A recent study published in the Journal of Adolescent Health found that emergency department visits for CHS-related symptoms increased by 28% among patients aged 18–25 between 2020 and 2024. This trend highlights the importance of raising awareness about CHS specifically among younger populations.

Why Younger Users May Be Particularly Vulnerable to CHS

Developing Endocannabinoid System

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) continues to develop throughout adolescence and into early adulthood. This system plays a crucial role in regulating various physiological processes, including nausea and vomiting. When young people introduce external cannabinoids through regular cannabis use, it may disrupt the normal development and functioning of the ECS.

As explained in the article "Your Body's Own Cannabis Network" on CHSSOS.info, chronic cannabis use can lead to dysregulation of the ECS, potentially contributing to the paradoxical symptoms of CHS.

Higher Potency Products

Today's cannabis products contain significantly higher THC concentrations than those available even a decade ago. Young users often gravitate toward high-potency products like concentrates, vape cartridges, and edibles with THC levels exceeding 70–90%. This increased potency may accelerate the development of CHS in susceptible individuals.

Social and Academic Pressures

The college environment, with its unique stressors and social dynamics, can contribute to patterns of cannabis use that increase CHS risk:

Using cannabis to manage academic stress or anxiety
Social pressure to participate in frequent cannabis use
Limited supervision compared to high school environments
Irregular sleep schedules that may mask early CHS symptoms
Self-medication for mental health concerns

Common Cannabis Use Patterns Among Teens and College Students That Increase Risk

Daily or Multiple-Times-Daily Use

Regular, frequent cannabis use is the primary risk factor for developing CHS. Many young users consume cannabis multiple times daily, often beginning immediately after waking—a pattern that significantly increases risk.

Binge Use During Weekends or Breaks

Some students engage in heavy, concentrated cannabis use during weekends or academic breaks, creating a cycle of intense exposure followed by relative abstinence. This pattern may contribute to ECS dysregulation.

Combining Cannabis with Other Substances

The combination of cannabis with alcohol, nicotine, or other substances—common in college settings—may potentially exacerbate the risk of developing CHS or complicate its symptoms.

Using as Self-Treatment

Many young adults use cannabis to self-treat anxiety, depression, insomnia, or attention difficulties. This medicinal-style use often involves consistent, regular consumption that increases CHS risk.

How to Recognize Early CHS Symptoms in the Context of College/Young Adult Life

Morning Nausea and Stomach Discomfort

Many students dismiss morning nausea as related to:

Hangover symptoms from alcohol consumption
Stress about upcoming exams or assignments
Poor dietary habits common in college settings
Lack of sleep or irregular sleep patterns

However, persistent morning nausea that improves later in the day—especially after cannabis use—can be an early warning sign of developing CHS.

Subtle Changes in Appetite and Digestion

Early CHS may manifest as:

Increased burping or hiccups
Mild abdominal discomfort after eating
Feeling uncomfortably full after normal-sized meals
Subtle weight loss despite normal eating habits

Relief from Hot Showers

One distinctive feature of CHS is the compulsive need for hot showers or baths to relieve symptoms. If you notice a roommate taking multiple hot showers daily, especially in the morning or when feeling nauseated, this could indicate developing CHS.

As described in "Finding Comfort Mid-Storm" on CHSSOS.info, this temporary relief from hot water is a hallmark symptom that distinguishes CHS from other conditions.

Cyclical Pattern

Early CHS symptoms often follow a cyclical pattern, with good days and bad days. Many students attribute the "good days" to their cannabis use helping with nausea, not realizing that the cannabis is actually causing the underlying problem.

Seeking Help: Overcoming Stigma and Accessing Appropriate Care

Overcoming Denial

Many young cannabis users have difficulty accepting that cannabis—often viewed as natural and medicinal—could be causing their symptoms. This denial can delay diagnosis and treatment.

Navigating Healthcare Systems

College students may be navigating healthcare independently for the first time, making it challenging to:

Access appropriate medical care
Communicate effectively with healthcare providers
Navigate insurance coverage for treatment
Follow through with recommended care plans

Addressing Stigma

Despite increasing legalization, stigma around cannabis use persists, particularly in medical settings. Young adults may fear judgment or legal consequences when disclosing cannabis use to healthcare providers.

Resources for Support

University health services are often equipped to handle CHS cases confidentially
Telehealth services can provide initial screening and referrals
CHS support groups online offer peer support from others who understand
CHSSOS.info provides evidence-based information about treatment options

Prevention Strategies Specifically for Younger Users

Moderation and Mindfulness

If you choose to use cannabis:

Limit frequency to occasional use rather than daily consumption
Choose products with balanced THC:CBD ratios rather than high-THC concentrates
Track your use patterns and be honest about dependency
Take regular tolerance breaks to allow your endocannabinoid system to reset

Recognize Risk Factors

Family history of digestive disorders
Pre-existing anxiety or depression
Early onset of cannabis use (before age 18)
Daily cannabis use for more than one year

Know the Early Warning Signs

Familiarize yourself with prodromal CHS symptoms as described in "Beyond Miserable" on CHSSOS.info, and don't dismiss persistent digestive issues as unrelated to cannabis use.

Consider Alternative Stress Management

Exercise and physical activity
Meditation and mindfulness practices
Cognitive-behavioral techniques for anxiety management
Campus resources for academic support and mental health

The Recovery Journey for Young Adults

If you've been diagnosed with CHS, recovery is possible but requires cannabis cessation. Young adults in recovery from CHS may benefit from:

Peer support groups specifically for young people with CHS
Mental health support to address underlying anxiety or depression
Academic accommodations during acute recovery periods
Nutritional guidance to restore health after episodes of vomiting and dehydration

For more information on the recovery timeline, see our article on CHS Recovery Timeline, which outlines what to expect during the days, weeks, and months after stopping cannabis use.

Conclusion: Empowering Young Adults with Knowledge

Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome represents a significant health risk for young cannabis users, but awareness and education can help prevent its development or catch it in early stages. By understanding the unique vulnerabilities and use patterns common among teens and college students, we can better address this emerging health concern.

If you're a young adult who uses cannabis regularly, pay attention to your body's signals and don't dismiss persistent digestive symptoms. Remember that the only proven treatment for CHS is cannabis cessation, and early intervention leads to better outcomes.

For parents, educators, and healthcare providers working with young adults, incorporating information about CHS into broader discussions about cannabis can help ensure that young people make informed decisions about their health.