Cyclic vomiting syndrome: a common, underrecognized disorder

Abstract

Purpose: To increase recognition and present symptom assessment strategies for treating cyclic vomiting syndrome (CVS).

Data sources: Clinical experience, a range of pediatric, gastroenterological, emergency medicine research, survey, and literature review reports on CVS.

Conclusions: Improved efforts to recognize, diagnose, and treat CVS will help patients manage their symptoms and may reduce both the morbidity and costs of hospitalizations associated with this illness.

Implications for practice: If promptly diagnosed and appropriately treated, CVS episodes can be aborted. Patients inappropriately treated must often be hospitalized because of complications associated with symptoms. Lifestyle changes, prophylactic and abortive migraine therapy, and supportive care are important to prevention.

Keywords: Children; disability; migraines; pharmacotherapy.