Cyclic vomiting syndrome: what it is, symptoms, causes and treatment

Cyclic vomiting syndrome is a gastrointestinal disorder that causes sudden, frequent and intense episodes of vomiting and nausea, which can last from a few hours to several days.

Cyclic vomiting syndrome can appear in children and adults, and is believed to be caused by factors such as hormonal or gastrointestinal problems and changes in communication between the brain and the digestive tract, for example.

Although there is no cure for this syndrome, the gastroenterologist may recommend the use of antiemetic and analgesic medications to prevent vomiting, reduce pain, and prevent complications from arising.

Main symptoms

The main symptoms of cyclic vomiting syndrome are:

• Intense and repetitive episodes of vomiting;
• Dor abdominal;
• Intense Sister;
• Nausea;
• Headache;
• Pallor;
• Diarrhea;
• Loss of appetite;
• Tiredness;
• Dizziness;
• Excessive thirst;
• Sensitivity to light.

The recovery phase begins when the person stops vomiting and feels less nauseous, gradually improving. After this phase, appetite and mood return.

How the diagnosis is made

The diagnosis of this syndrome must be made by a gastroenterologist, through evaluation of the signs and symptoms presented, and the person’s and family health history.

To confirm the diagnosis, the doctor also requests some tests, such as a complete blood count, ultrasound of the abdomen and endoscopy, an exam indicated to assess the health of the esophagus, stomach and the initial part of the intestine. See how endoscopy is performed.

Possible causes

It is not yet known exactly what causes cyclic vomiting syndrome. However, it is believed that this syndrome is caused by changes in communication between the brain and the digestive tract; genetic mutations; or hormonal, gastrointestinal or endocrine system problems.

Furthermore, some factors that can cause vomiting episodes are:

• Stress;
• Anxiety or panic attacks, especially in adults;
• Respiratory infections;
• Food allergies;
• Intense enthusiasm before birthdays, trips or vacations, especially in children;
• Menstrual periods;
• Few hours of sleep;
• Fast.

Ingestion of some foods and drinks, such as chocolate, cheese, foods with monosodium glutamate or alcoholic beverages can also cause episodes of vomiting.

What is the treatment like?

Although this disorder has no cure, treatment for cyclic vomiting syndrome is recommended by a doctor and includes the use of medications to reduce nausea, vomiting and pain, such as ondansetron, promethazine and ibuprofen, for example.

In severe cases of vomiting, the treatment of this syndrome must be carried out in the hospital with the administration of serum and medications directly into the vein.

After the vomiting episodes end, it is recommended to follow a liquid diet, drinking plenty of water, fruit juices and vegetable broths, and gradually introducing more solid foods into your diet.

Possible complications

Possible complications of cyclic vomiting syndrome are:

Furthermore, this syndrome can also cause kidney damage, due to dehydration, and gastritis.