Cyclic vomiting syndrome is a condition that includes repeated bouts of severe nausea and vomiting with periods of normal health in between. These episodes can last for several hours or days and often keep your child from participating in their daily normal activities. While symptoms can vary for each child, the episodes are often very similar for each individual child, as symptoms often start at the same time of day, are similar in severity, and last for roughly the same amount of time.
The symptoms of cyclic vomiting syndrome start on average between the ages of 5 and 6 years old but can happen in people of all ages. It is slightly more common in girls than in boys and is predominantly in Caucasian children.
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What are the signs and symptoms of cyclic vomiting syndrome?
Severe nausea and vomiting are the main symptoms. These symptoms often start in the morning or when your child wakes up. Vomiting can be so severe that the child cannot walk or talk. Other symptoms can include:
- Feeling tired
- Pale skin
- Abdominal pain
- No interest in food or decreased appetite
- Excess salivation
Please note there are many conditions that have similar symptoms. It’s important to see your child’s doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
What causes cyclic vomiting syndrome?
Experts are not sure what causes cyclic vomiting syndrome, but there seems to be multiple contributing factors that ultimately cause a change in the interaction between the brain and the gut. The condition is known to be associated with migraine headaches and may be more common in children with a family history of migraines. It has also been linked to other medical conditions such as dysregulation of the autonomic nervous system, mitochondrial dysfunction, menses, food sensitivities and allergies, and anxiety.
How is cyclic vomiting syndrome treated?
Treatment for cyclic vomiting syndrome involves providing adequate hydration and if necessary, taking medicine to prevent or stop episodes from happening. There are two main types of therapy:
- Abortive therapy: Medicines that help stop the episode once it has started. These may include anti-migraine or anti-nausea medicines
- Preventive therapy: Medicines that your child takes every day to help prevent an episode. These are usually medicines that turn down signals from the GI tract and brain called neuromodulators.
Some children may also benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy or relaxation techniques to reduce stress. Avoiding any known triggers can also help reduce or prevent attacks. Working with a specialist is important for more severe cases.