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Published on: August 18, 2020
Cyclic vomiting and compulsive bathing with chronic cannabis abuse.
Pavan Chepyala1, Kevin W Olden
1Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas 72205, USA.
Summary
Chronic cannabis use can cause cyclic vomiting syndrome and compulsive bathing. Abstinence from cannabis resolved both symptoms, suggesting a link between cannabis abuse and this condition.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Addiction Medicine
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Cannabis is known for antiemetic effects.
- Chronic use may paradoxically induce vomiting.
- Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome (CVS) is a distinct disorder.
Observation:
- A patient with chronic cannabis use presented with CVS-like symptoms.
- Compulsive bathing behavior was observed, providing temporary relief.
- This showering behavior was noted in prior hospitalizations.
Findings:
- Abstinence from cannabis led to complete resolution of vomiting and abdominal pain.
- Compulsive bathing ceased upon cannabis cessation.
- This case aligns with other reports linking cannabis to CVS exacerbation.
Implications:
- Consider CVS with cannabis abuse in patients with unexplained chronic vomiting and compulsive bathing.
- Cannabis may trigger or worsen CVS in susceptible individuals.
- Further research is needed to understand the cannabis-CVS relationship.
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