Is Acid Reflux A Symptom Of Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome?

Feb 14, 2018 Acid Reflux

Acid reflux is a condition of the digestive system also known as indigestion and heartburn.  Cyclic vomiting syndrome (CVS) is where a person suffers vomiting and nausea periodically.  The cause of CVS is unknown and treatment involves relieving the symptoms. Children are more likely to suffer from cyclic vomiting syndrome but it is not unknown in adults. Symptoms of cyclic vomiting syndrome include; acid reflux, nausea and vomiting. Family history and frequency of symptoms help to diagnose the condition.  Preventing CVS is difficult because it still occurs regardless of diet and lifestyle. Sickness lasts from hours to days and is very debilitating. Gastro-Oesophageal Disease (GORD) is a digestive condition caused by a weakness in the muscle between the stomach and oesophagus. Stomach acid travels back from the stomach to the throat to cause acid reflux. This causes nausea and has similar symptoms to CVS.  Acid reflux is treatable with medication that reduces the production of stomach acid.

What Is Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome?

Cyclic vomiting syndrome (CVS) is a condition that causes the sufferer to vomit in cycles.  The cause of the illness is unknown but the symptoms are very debilitating.  Doctors treat the symptoms which include; nausea, acid reflux and vomiting but can’t cure the condition.  CVS is more common in children than adults although people of all ages can have it. Extreme cases see the sufferer vomiting 24 hours a day.  This results in loss of nutrients, low sugar levels and dehydration.  Sufferers become very weak and may require time in hospital due to malnourishment.  Preventing the occurrence of CVS is difficult because triggers remain unknown. There are four stages of cyclic vomiting syndrome which are very similar to the stages of a migraine.  The stages are; Prodrome, vomiting, recovery and well phase.  Prodrome symptoms are nausea, sweat and become pale.  Vomiting phase symptoms are vomiting, drowsiness, headaches and fever.  The recovery phase follows and eventually, the sufferer feels well and in good health again. Triggers vary and include; stress, infection, food, caffeine, heat, hormones, unhealthy eating and tiredness.  Doctors look at family history, vomiting patterns and medical history.  Diagnosis occurs if there is no other cause for the sickness.  One major sign of CVS is vomiting at the same time every day.   Treatment for CVS is for the symptoms of nausea, stomach pain and acid reflux.  There is no medication to treat cyclic vomiting syndrome.  Lifestyle changes such as avoiding stress, eating certain foods, eating smaller portions and sleeping may relieve symptoms.

What Is Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux is a symptom of Gastro-Oesophageal Disease (GORD).  A weak band of muscle between the stomach and the oesophagus causes stomach acid to travel up to the throat.  The condition is very uncomfortable and causes vomiting in the worst cases.  Triggers include; stress, spicy foods, smoking, chocolate, large food portions, greasy food and lying down after eating. Small lifestyle changes reduce the incidents of acid reflux.  Proton pump inhibitors reduce the production of stomach acid and relieve acid reflux symptoms.  They are effective treatments so if the symptoms persist after taking them you may have another condition.   Acid reflux is also a symptom of cyclic vomiting syndrome which is a debilitating condition.  You should consult your doctor if symptoms of acid reflux persist because it can lead to more serious health conditions. To review and purchase treatment for acid reflux please click here.

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