Is cyclic vomiting syndrome treatable?
Cyclic vomiting syndrome is characterized by episodes of severe vomiting that may last for several hours or days. There are also alternating, symptom-free periods.
The diagnosis is especially common in children aged 3 to 7 years.
Vomiting may be accompanied by the following symptoms:
- Diarrhea;
- Dizziness;
- Abdominal pain;
- Increased sensitivity to light;
- Headache.
Symptoms usually appear in the morning.
Be sure to consult a doctor if you notice blood in the vomit or if you are at increased risk of dehydration.
Diagnosing cyclic vomiting syndrome is difficult, because vomiting is a symptom of many diseases, therefore, many pathologies must be excluded - the fact that there is no specific test for this syndrome complicates the diagnosis.
The doctor may consider the following tests:
- Endoscopy, ultrasound, or CT scan;
- Motor function test;
- Laboratory tests to check for thyroid problems and other metabolic diseases.
There is no known cure for cyclic vomiting syndrome. It is worth noting that many children no longer have this complaint as adults.
The course of treatment for cyclic vomiting focuses on managing symptoms, for example, the child may be prescribed anti-nausea drugs, painkillers, antidepressants, or a drug that suppresses stomach acid.
Intravenous fluids are prescribed to prevent dehydration.
In some clinical cases, the medication prescribed for migraines is effective in stopping or preventing cyclic vomiting.
Keep in mind that the course of treatment is individual and depends on the severity of symptoms and possible complications.
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