Overview

Cyclic vomiting syndrome (CVS) involves repeated, unexplained episodes of severe nausea and vomiting. Episodes can last from a few hours to several days. They can be so severe that you need to stay in bed. You may need to go to the emergency room (ER) or hospital to get IV fluids to prevent dehydration. Following an episode, you’re free of symptoms and return to normal health.

CVS may last for months, years or decades. However, symptoms don’t occur every day. Episodes generally occur several times a year but can happen up to once or twice a month.

The symptoms, time of day, frequency, severity and length of each episode are usually the same for any one person. But these factors can vary from person to person.

How common is cyclic vomiting syndrome?

CVS is more common in children than adults. Approximately 3 of every 100,000 children have CVS. In most cases in children, episodes start between the ages of 3 and 7. However, the disorder can begin at any age.

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Symptoms

When to see a doctor

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Complications

Blood clots are a dangerous complication of atrial fibrillation (AFib). Blood clots can lead to stroke.
The risk of stroke from AFib increases as you grow older. Other health conditions also may increase the risk of a stroke due to AFib. These conditions include:
  • High blood pressure.
  • Diabetes.
  • Heart failure.
  • Some types of heart valve disease.
Blood thinners are commonly prescribed to prevent blood clots and strokes in people with atrial fibrillation.

Prevention

Healthy lifestyle choices can reduce the risk of heart disease and may prevent atrial fibrillation (AFib). Here are some basic heart-healthy tips:
  • Control high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
  • Don't smoke or use tobacco.
  • Eat a diet that's low in salt and saturated fat.
  • Exercise at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week unless your health care team says not to.
  • Get good sleep. Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours daily.
  • Maintain a healthy weight.
  • Reduce and manage stress.


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