Points to Remember About Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome
- People with CVS have severe nausea and vomiting that come in cycles.
- CVS occurs mostly in children, but adults can have it, too.
- CVS has four phases: prodrome, episode, recovery, and symptom-free interval.
- Most people can identify a condition or event that triggers an episode of nausea and vomiting. Infections and emotional stress are two common triggers.
- The main symptoms of CVS are severe vomiting, nausea, and retching. Other symptoms include pallor and exhaustion.
- The only way a doctor can diagnose CVS is by looking at symptoms and medical history to rule out any other possible causes for the nausea and vomiting. Then the doctor must identify a pattern or cycle to the symptoms.
- CVS has no cure. Treatment varies by person, but people with CVS generally need to get plenty of rest and sleep. They may also be given drugs that may prevent an episode, stop one in progress, speed up recovery, or relieve symptoms.
- Complications include dehydration, loss of electrolytes, peptic esophagitis, hematemesis, Mallory-Weiss tear, and tooth decay.
