Cyclical Vomiting Syndrome (CVS)
A survey has suggested that as many as one in fifty children may suffer from cyclical vomiting syndrome. This is a particularly unpleasant illness that can see a child vomiting up to twelve times an hour. It can also affect a child on a regular basis with some children being struck by the illness once a month. In these instances a child may only just have made a full recovery from one bout when another one starts.
There are a number of problems associated with Cyclical Vomiting. The first is that there is very little warning as to when an attack is likely to take place. The second is that there is little that can be done to stop an attack. The third is that it is very difficult to identify triggers. The fourth is that in severe cases a child may need hospital treatment to bring the attack under control. Obviously for any parent watching their child being constantly sick and being able to do so little to bring the attack under control can be extremely distressing.
It is also difficult for a doctor to diagnose cyclical vomiting. This is because many other illnesses have at least some of the symptoms.
The onset of an attack may be signalled by stomach pains that are similar to migraine headaches. In fact it is believed that the condition is related to migraines and drugs used to treat the illness are often the same as those used to treat migraine. A sufferer may also experience headaches and an increased sensitivity to light. As an attack develops a child may also have diarrhoea and a high temperature.
The illness usually starts between the ages of three and seven. Most children grow out of the illness as they go through their teens, although there are a small number who unfortunately carry the problem into adulthood.
Parents whose children are affected are advised to keep a diary. This is to try to identify possible triggers. Triggers could include certain foods, other illnesses (especially coughs and colds) and strenuous activities or excitement (such as birthday parties and school trips). In some cases it has also been suggested that too much exposure to gaming machines can also trigger cyclical vomiting.
Flare ups are likely to occur at the same time of the day for any individual child. Usually this is first thing in the morning or a child may wake in the night with the problem. Anti sickness medicine can be prescribed by a doctor, but often the period between the first signs of illness and the start of vomiting can be too short for the medicine to take affect.
When anyone is sick on such a regular basis it can cause severe dehydration and also the loss of important body salts known as electrolytes. In my own personal experience I have found GPs can be less aware of the illness than a hospital. Although you should always consult your GP in the first instance if you start to become concerned about dehydration then it could be wise to take your child to accident and emergency.
Once on a drip to hydrate them, children can start to make a fairly rapid recovery. In most cases the sickness will have stopped with this treatment within 24 hours. After they have recovered any weight lose is usually regained quite quickly through eating and drinking normally.
After an attack has subsided a child is likely to return to normal and have a period of remission before the next attack comes around.
If you would like to know more about the illness or would like some help and support then contact the Cyclical Vomiting Syndrome Association: CVSA.
NOTE:
The health section of Parenting.co.uk is not to be used as a substitute for your GP; if your child is ill then seek the advice of a qualified doctor or other health professional without delay.
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