Cyclic vomiting syndrome

Overview

Episodes can last hours to days and often start at the same time of day.

Cannabis can cause a similar pattern.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Repeated vomiting episodes

Less common

• Belly pain
• Pale skin
• Headache

Look up a symptom: Vomiting

When to get medical care

Causes

Unknown.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Migraine

Diagnosis

A clinician asks about your symptoms and may order tests.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Tests to rule out causes:

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is.

Self-care

• Rest in a dark room during episodes
• Rest in a dark room

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• Avoid triggers

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a gastroenterologist (stomach and gut doctor).

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Children: Often outgrow it.
• Children 3 to 7: Most common.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Medicines can prevent episodes.

Many children outgrow it.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• What's causing this?
• What treatment do you recommend?
• Could migraine medicines help?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Cyclic vomiting syndrome