Cyclical Vomiting Syndrome

Cyclical Vomiting Syndrome (CVS) is a rare disorder characterized by recurrent, severe episodes of nausea and vomiting that occur in a cyclical pattern. The episodes can last for hours to days and are typically separated by periods of complete symptom relief. CVS is more common in children but can also affect adults.

Characteristics

Frequency: Episodes occur in cycles, which may be monthly, weekly, or even more frequent. The cycles can vary in length and severity.
Duration: Each episode can last from several hours to several days.
Symptom-Free Periods: Between episodes, individuals are generally asymptomatic and return to normal health.

Causes

The exact cause of CVS is not well understood, but it is thought to involve a combination of factors:

Genetic Predisposition: Family history of CVS or other similar conditions may increase risk.
Migraine Connection: CVS is sometimes linked with migraine disorders; some individuals with CVS also experience migraines.
Autonomic Nervous System Dysfunction: Issues with the regulation of the autonomic nervous system, which controls bodily functions like digestion and vomiting.
Triggers: Stress, infections, certain foods, or other environmental factors may trigger episodes.

Prevention

Preventive strategies include:

Identifying Triggers: Keeping a diary to track potential triggers and patterns.
Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and effective stress management.

Effective management of CVS often requires a multidisciplinary approach, including medication, lifestyle modifications, and supportive care to control symptoms and improve quality of life.

What are the signs and symptoms of Cyclical Vomiting Syndrome?

Diagnosing CVS is often difficult because its symptoms closely mimic those of other conditions, particularly Abdominal Migraine. During each CVS episode, sufferers typically experience vomiting at least four times per hour, with attacks lasting from 1 hour to 10 days, which can lead to severe dehydration. These episodes are consistent in terms of duration, timing, intensity, and symptom type.

Common Signs and Symptoms of CVS:

Recurring episodes of vomiting lasting up to a week
Severe nausea
Intense sweating

Additional Features That May Accompany CVS:

Abdominal pain
Diarrhea
Fever
Dizziness

Although CVS is categorized as a “migraine disorder,” it rarely involves headaches. When attacks do include headaches, they are classified as “classic” or “common” migraines.

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Difference between Cyclical Vomiting Syndrome(CVS) and Abdominal Migrain

Although often confused for one another, Abdominal Migraine and Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome (CVS) are distinct conditions.

Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome is characterized by episodes of severe nausea, vomiting, and other stomach issues with no clear cause, lasting up to 10 days. In contrast, Abdominal Migraine episodes usually last up to 3 days and are mainly marked by abdominal pain, though nausea and vomiting may also be present.

Both conditions can lead to loss of appetite and pale skin during an attack.

Key Differences:

Primary Symptom Focus:
- CVS: Focuses on vomiting.
- Abdominal Migraine: Centers around abdominal pain.
Headache Association:
- CVS: Rarely includes headaches.
- Abdominal Migraine: Often associated with headaches.
Episode Duration:
- CVS: Episodes can last much longer, up to 10 days.
- Abdominal Migraine: Episodes typically last up to 72 hours.
Common Misdiagnoses:
- CVS: Can be misdiagnosed as gastrointestinal issues due to frequent vomiting.
- Abdominal Migraine: Often misdiagnosed as other gastrointestinal disorders or mistaken for CVS due to similar vomiting and nausea symptoms.

Understanding these differences is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment of each condition.

Diagnosing CVS in Children

Diagnosing Cyclical Vomiting Syndrome (CVS) in children is challenging, as they may have difficulty distinguishing between stomach flu and abdominal migraine. It is crucial to rule out other potential causes of stomach pain, such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome, gastroenteritis, appendicitis, and more.

Children with CVS are more likely to develop migraines or headaches in adulthood.

How MoveSense will help you treat the Cyclical Vomiting Syndrome?

CVS sufferers have tried various methods to relieve their painful attacks, including over-the-counter painkillers, strong triptan medications, and tricyclic antidepressants. Although these treatments can sometimes alleviate symptoms, many sufferers still endure painful episodes despite these options.

At MoveSense, we have treated numerous CVS patients. If you or your child have CVS symptoms and find that medication provides no significant relief, we recommend a thorough examination of your brainstem.

The best part of our treatment is that it is medication-free, surgery-free, and non-invasive.

Cyclical Vomiting Syndrome