Cyclic vomiting syndrome facts for kids
Cyclic vomiting syndrome (CVS) is a health problem where a person has repeated, strong attacks of vomiting and feeling sick (nausea). These attacks happen in cycles, meaning they come and go. In between attacks, the person usually feels fine. CVS is more common in children, but it can affect people of any age.
CVS is part of a group of conditions called childhood periodic syndromes. These are a type of migraine-related problem that affects children. Children who have CVS often develop other types of migraines when they get older.
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What is Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome?
Cyclic vomiting syndrome is a condition where people experience sudden, repeated episodes of severe nausea and vomiting. These episodes can last for hours or even days. After an episode, the person usually feels completely normal until the next one starts. It's like a pattern that repeats over time.
How often do attacks happen?
The attacks of vomiting can happen at different times for different people. Some might have them every few weeks, while others might have them every few months. The time between attacks is usually symptom-free.
What are the symptoms of CVS?
The main symptoms of CVS are:
- Strong feelings of nausea (feeling sick to your stomach).
- Repeated vomiting, sometimes many times an hour.
- Feeling very tired and weak.
- Pale skin.
- Sometimes, stomach pain or headaches.
These symptoms can be very intense during an attack.
What causes Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome?
Scientists are still learning exactly what causes CVS. It's thought to be linked to how the brain and the gut (stomach and intestines) communicate.
Links to migraines
CVS is often called a "migraine variant" because it shares some features with migraines. Just like migraines, CVS attacks can be triggered by certain things. Also, many children with CVS or their family members have a history of migraines.
Possible triggers
Some things can trigger a CVS attack. These might include:
- Stress or excitement.
- Infections, like a cold or flu.
- Lack of sleep.
- Certain foods.
- Being too hot or too cold.
- Physical exhaustion.
Learning what triggers an attack can help people try to avoid them.
How is CVS diagnosed?
There isn't one specific test for CVS. Doctors usually diagnose it by looking at a person's symptoms and medical history. They will ask about the pattern of vomiting and how often it happens.
Ruling out other conditions
Because vomiting can be a symptom of many different health problems, doctors will often do tests to make sure it's not something else. This might include blood tests or imaging scans.
How is CVS treated?
There are different ways to manage CVS, focusing on preventing attacks and making them less severe when they happen.
Preventing attacks
Doctors might suggest medicines to help prevent attacks, especially if they happen often. It's also important to try and avoid known triggers. Getting enough sleep and managing stress can also help.
Treating an attack
During an attack, the main goal is to make the person more comfortable and prevent dehydration. This might involve:
- Resting in a quiet, dark room.
- Taking anti-nausea medicines.
- Getting fluids, sometimes through an IV if the person can't drink.
- Pain relief for headaches or stomach pain.
Living with Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome
Living with CVS can be challenging because the attacks are unpredictable. However, with the right support and treatment, many people can manage their symptoms well.
Support and understanding
It's important for people with CVS to have support from family, friends, and their school. Understanding the condition can help everyone cope better. Many people find it helpful to keep a diary of their attacks and possible triggers.
See also
- In Spanish: Síndrome de vómitos cíclicos para niños
