Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome (CVS) in Washington
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Find a ProviderWhat is CVS (or cyclic vomiting syndrome)?
Cyclic vomiting syndrome (CVS) is a problem that occurs most frequently in younger children but can affect anyone regardless of the stage of life. This condition involves repeated vomiting or cycles of vomiting, and there may be periods in between these “cycles” where-in you are completely symptom-free. During a vomiting cycle, you can experience intense vomiting that can recur as few as six and as many as 20 times before subsiding. Cyclic vomiting syndrome in Washington may impact as much as 2% of school-aged children. It can often be challenging to diagnose due to the connection of vomiting to numerous other GI conditions. The syndrome could be incorrectly identified as a stomach bug or food-borne illness. If you or your child are experiencing symptoms of CVS in Washington, connect with your local Washington Gastroenterology today.
What are some symptoms of cyclic vomiting syndrome?
A vomiting cycle is often similar to previous vomiting episodes. For example, they begin at a similar time of day, are of an equivalent level of severity, present with the same symptoms, and last for an equal length of time. Most sufferers complain of the following symptoms:
- Pain in the abdomen (80%)
- Abnormal sleepiness or fatigue (91%)
- Fever (29%)
- Diarrhea (36%)
- Paleness or pallor (87%)
- Headache (40%)
After the vomiting cycle has subsided, the patient might be tired and want to sleep. Once rested, the patient can seem to be back to normal health and wish to eat and engage in everyday activities.
What causes cyclic vomiting syndrome?
Determining a specific cause of an individual’s cyclic vomiting syndrome can be challenging. Vomiting is an extremely common symptom of several gastrointestinal diseases, and CVS, in and of itself, has many different factors that may be related to its source.
CVS may be triggered by individual behaviors, environmental factors, bodily imbalances, mental health, or internal changes. Specific episodes of cyclic vomiting syndrome can be instigated by situations involving:
- Hot temperatures
- Menstruation
- Sicknesses - such as colds
- Allergic responses or sinus problems
- Eating too much
- Consumption of specific foods -such as alcohol, caffeine, chocolate, or cheese
- Physical exhaustion
- Motion-induced nausea
- Panic or anxiety attacks
- Emotional stress or excitement
If you suspect any of the above is causing your symptoms or if you need assistance identifying your triggers, reach out to a Washington Gastroenterology location in your community.
What is the treatment for CVS?
Treatment for cyclic vomiting syndrome commonly includes three primary goals:
- Stop the vomiting episode: attempt to stop an attack that has begun
- Rescue therapy: attempt to provide the patient with as much comfort as possible if the episode cannot be stopped
- Preventative medicine: attempt to prevent future attacks
The approach to treatment will likely differ among patients and in different instances of CVS. You should consult your provider to determine which treatment approach is ideal for you or your child.
What are the complications of CVS?
When CVS is left untreated, potential complications may include:
- Dehydration
- Damage to the esophagus, the primary pipe that allows food to pass from the mouth to the stomach
- Malnutrition
- Damage to the tooth enamel as a result of stomach acid entering the mouth via vomit
If you or your child experience symptoms of CVS, it's essential to receive intervention with our Washington gastrointestinal specialists as soon as possible.
New and innovative CVS treatments
If you or someone you love has been dealing with uncomfortable GI symptoms like the ones above, it is possible that cyclic vomiting syndrome could be to blame. The side effects of cyclic vomiting syndrome may put your overall health in danger, and immediate treatment may be needed to ensure optimal health. If you are searching for expert assistance and cutting-edge therapies for CVS in Washington, our providers are ready to help. Contact a Washington Gastroenterology near you to request an appointment with one of our board-certified gastrointestinal providers.
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