Cyclical vomiting syndrome

Who is affected?

CVS is most commonly seen in children it's usually diagnosed at ages three to seven.

Children who suffer migraines and sensitivity to light and sound are more likely to develop the condition.

CVS can clear up by the time the child becomes an adult, although it can affect adults too.

It's not known exactly how commonCVSis, but one study suggests that it affects around three out of 100,000 children.

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018

Articles for cyclical vomiting syndrome

Introduction

NHS Choices information about cyclical vomiting syndrome, with links to other useful resources.

What are the symptoms?

Someone withCVSwill go through a regular cycleof feeling ill, recovering, feeling well and then feeling ill again. This cycle is made up of four phases: 1. Prodrome phase : feeling that an episod

What is the likely cause?

The cause ofCVSis currently unknown, but there may be a link with migraines . Many people withCVSdevelop migraines,and migraine medicines have been shown to help treat the syndrome. Vomiting episodes

Who is affected?

CVS is most commonly seen in children it's usually diagnosed at ages three to seven. Children who suffer migraines and sensitivity to light and sound are more likely to develop the condition. CVS c

How is a diagnosis made?

A GPwill take their patient's family and medical history, and a full account of their symptoms. A child may be suspected to haveCVSif the following apply: they havehad at least five vomiting episod

How should I manage a vomiting episode?

When a vomiting episode starts, it's a good idea to stay in bed in a dark, quiet room and take any medicines prescribed for this stage of the cycle. Keep taking small sips of fluid to prevent dehydra

Can vomiting attacks be prevented?

It may be possible to prevent or lessen vomiting attacks by: avoiding known triggers such as certain foods getting enough sleep treating any sinus problems or allergies tackling any stress o

What are the possible complications?

Severe vomitingepisodes can lead to: dehydration oesophagitis (inflammation of the gullet lining) a tear in the lining of the gullet tooth decay gastroparesis (where the stomach cannot empt