Hot shower therapy in cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome: A case report

Abstract

Cannabis is one of the most widely used addictive substances. Abuse of this drug is associated with various long- and short-term adverse effects. Dizziness, shallow breathing, red eyes and dilated pupils, dry mouth, increased appetite, and slowed reaction time are a few effects of cannabis. It can be used as an antiemetic and for the treatment of cachexia in cancer patients. A paradoxical clinical phenomenon called cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) is also reported. Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome is characterized by recurrent episodes of intractable nausea and vomiting in patients using cannabis daily for years. Patients with CHS benefit compulsively from hot water since it relieves symptoms. The possible mechanism is skin vasodilation. This article aims to show the effectiveness of hot shower treatment in cases with cannabinoid hyperemesis. To our knowledge, this is the first case to address hot shower therapy in the treatment of CHS in Turkey.