What is cyclic vomiting syndrome?
Cyclic vomiting syndrome (CVS) is a rare disorder characterized by recurring periods of vomiting in an otherwise normal child. Children in the pre-school or early school years are most susceptible to CVS, although it can appear anywhere from infancy to adulthood. This disorder was identified a century ago, but its cause is still unknown. Episodes can be triggered by
emotional stress or infections, can last hours or days and can return at any time. Abdominal pain is a frequent feature.
Cyclic vomiting syndrome is a rare digestive disorder that affects children and adults. Cyclic vomiting syndrome (CVS) is a condition where someone has times of severe nausea and vomiting, but normal periods of health in between. The vomiting can last for several hours or even days, along with other symptoms such as paleness, tiredness, headache, dizziness, being bothered by light, and belly (abdominal) pain. The episodes of vomiting can be treated with medications, and the good news is that most children with CVS tend to outgrow it as they get older.
The terms CVS and abdominal migraine often have been used interchangeably because of overlap in clinical criteria. Indeed, the key criteria, except vomiting, in abdominal migraines are identical to those in CVS: recurrent, stereotypical, and severe episodes of abdominal pain; punctuating well periods; autonomic symptoms (eg, pallor, lethargy); and a family history of migraine headaches. As a result, symptoms of abdominal pain and vomiting allow many children to be diagnosed with CVS or abdominal migraine. When both symptoms occur, the authors use the predominant or consistent symptom as the primary label. |
