Cyclical vomiting syndrome
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 episode is about to start intense sweating and nausea for a few minutes to a few hours 2. Vomiting phase : retching and vomitingthat often starts in the night or early morning vomitingup to five or six times an hour for at least one hour, for up to 10days may not be able to move or respond other possible symptoms: abdominal pain, diarrhoea, fever, dizziness, headache, sensitivity to light, extremely pale skin, drowsiness or unresponsiveness, drooling or spitting excess saliva 3. Recovery phase: vomiting and retching stop, and nausea subsides recovery is gradual or immediate 4. Well phase: a period of no symptoms until the prodrome phase starts again The cycle tends to be regular and predictable: the same symptoms,starting at the same time of the day, for thesame durationeach time.
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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
Further advice and support
Cyclical Vomiting Syndrome Association UK
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