Cyclic vomiting syndrome (CVS) is a digestive disorder in which patients experience recurrent and unexplained episodes of severe nausea and vomiting that can last for hours to days. They are followed by periods with no symptoms before another episode or attack sets in.
While children have traditionally been more likely to have CVS, the condition is being diagnosed in adults more often.
We do not fully understand CVS and have not been able to pinpoint underlying causes. There may be a genetic, hormonal or neurological component. The syndrome can also overlap with other digestive disorders. Triggers can include physical exhaustion, dehydration (which worsens with the vomiting), high stress or anxiety, overheating, certain foods or environmental allergens.
The uncertainty around CVS makes it important to seek care with experienced providers like those with the Neurogastroenterology & Motility Center, who can diagnose and address the condition as quickly as possible.
Symptoms & Diagnosis
It can be a challenge to diagnose CVS because it shares symptoms with other motility disorders. We conduct a careful, detailed medical history and physical exam with each patient to hopefully reach an accurate diagnosis quickly.
The most common symptoms include:
- Recurrent bouts of vomiting, gagging and retching. These can be preceded by significant nausea, abdominal pain or sweating.
- Periods of “normal” health between episodes with no symptoms.
- Less often, diarrhea, dizziness, headaches or discomfort with bright lights or loud sounds.
Having CVS can also lead to complications related to the severe vomiting. Stomach acid generated while vomiting can irritate the lining of the esophagus and cause tooth decay. You can also become chronically dehydrated, which can lead to some degree of renal failure, low blood pressure, muscle cramps, dizziness and fainting.
Treatment Options
We work with each patient to identify the possible triggers for CVS episodes since avoiding those can help reduce their frequency. There are also medications that can reduce the chemical imbalance believed to play a role in the condition. We can also advise on lifestyle changes – getting enough sleep, staying hydrated and managing stress – that can help.