Understanding Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome in Kids
Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome (CVS) is a functional gastrointestinal disorder where children experience sudden, repeated episodes of severe vomiting that start and stop abruptly, with symptom-free periods in between.
Unlike typical stomach bugs, CVS episodes follow a predictable pattern lasting hours to days, then complete recovery. Most common in children aged 2-7 years, but can persist into adolescence or adulthood.
Prevalence: Affects 1-2% of school children; often underdiagnosed because parents think it’s “just another stomach virus”.