Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome (CFS) is a condition in which episodes of intense nausea and vomiting occur that last from several hours to several days. There is a symptom-free period between these episodes. It can affect individuals of any age group, but usually begins in childhood around ages 3 to 7 years. The hallmark of this syndrome is that the symptoms begin at the same time of day, have the same intensity and last the same length of time in a given person. The reason behind CFS is not clearly known, but what is known is that the vomiting in this syndrome is not due to an infection or a medical condition. Vomiting and nausea are the main symptoms of CFS.
Other possible symptoms include gagging, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, diarrhea, fatigue, headache, dizziness, sensitivity to light and increased thirst. There are no tests to diagnose this condition. CFS is diagnosed by ruling out medical conditions (such as gastritis, pancreatitis, food allergies, GERD i.e. gastroesophageal reflux disease etc.) that can cause symptoms similar to this condition. Some of the complications that can occur with this condition include dehydration from loss of body fluid, damage to the lining of the esophagus from the backing up of stomach acid into the esophagus, and decay of tooth enamel from acid vomiting.
Homeopathic treatment
Homeopathic medicines provide a very natural, safe and effective treatment for cyclic vomiting syndrome. Homeopathic medicines help treat this condition symptomatically and gradually reduce the intensity and frequency of symptoms associated with this complaint. It can excellently control symptoms of vomiting and nausea. Moreover, they can also manage the associated symptoms such as weakness, abdominal pain and headache. Homeopathic medicines are useful in controlling acute episodes of this complaint and in overcoming the tendency for recurrent episodes of this problem. Homeopathic medicines for this complaint are prescribed individually in each case, depending on the symptoms. It is recommended that any case of cyclic vomiting be assessed by a homeopathic doctor and take medications as per the doctor’s advice. Self-medication should be avoided. Severe and persistent vomiting can cause dehydration, which can be life-threatening. So in any case that signs of dehydration are observed or blood appears in the vomit, one should take immediate help from the conventional method of treatment as homeopathy is limited in helping such critical cases. Some signs of dehydration include decreased urination, dry skin, dry mouth, increased thirst, exhaustion, sunken eyes and lack of tears while crying.
What are the causes of cyclic vomiting syndrome?
The cause behind CFS is not yet clear. However, it has been suggested that a genetic predisposition, hormonal imbalance and problems in the nervous system may play a role. Furthermore, it is also suggested that migraines may be associated with it. Children with CFS may have a family history of migraines and have a tendency to develop migraines as they grow into adulthood. There are some known trigger factors for symptoms of CFS. These include colds, sinus infections, stress, anxiety, panic attack, emotional arousal, physical exhaustion, menstruation, excessive exercise, hot weather, motion sickness (inner ear disorder caused by repetitive motion of a vehicle), fasting, lack of sleep, ingestion of certain foods (such as chocolate, alcohol, cheese, caffeine, MSG i.e. monosodium glutamate) and overeating.
Homeopathic medicines for cyclic vomiting syndrome
1. Ipecac – Top Medicine
Ipecac is a top natural remedy for controlling episodes of nausea and vomiting. If necessary, vomiting may involve watery fluid, green/yellow colored fluid or undigested food. Abdominal pain may be associated with it. The stomach can be sensitive to pressure. Distention of the abdomen and dry throat may occur. After vomiting, the person may have a desire to sleep. Loose stools may also occur along with vomiting. In some cases, vomiting occurs shortly after eating. Nausea can be caused by the smell of food. There may be excessive weakness.
2. Colchicum – For nausea, vomiting with watery stools
This medicine is well indicated when there is vomiting, nausea and watery stools. Vomiting can be caused by movement of the body. It gets better if you lie completely still. There may be a burning sensation in the pit of the stomach, followed by nausea and then vomiting. Vomiting is followed by weakness. Nausea is mainly caused by the smell of cooked food, especially eggs, fish and meat. In addition to the above symptoms, stomach pain and an icy feeling may occur.
3. Arsenic Album – For vomiting and weakness
This medicine is useful in treating cases where vomiting is accompanied by excessive weakness. Vomiting occurs shortly after eating or drinking. The vomit may contain food, clear water, or gastric juices. Loose stools may occur, along with vomiting. Nausea is also felt. The sight or smell of food along with these symptoms is unbearable. Anxiety and restlessness may be prominent in cases where this medicine is required.
4. Nux Vomica – For nausea and vomiting in the morning
Nux Vomica is an effective medicine for people who suffer from nausea and vomiting in the morning. The vomit may contain acidic mucus or an oily substance. Pain is felt in the stomach, which becomes worse, especially after eating. A feeling of weight is also felt in the stomach. The stomach area may be sensitive to pressure. Nux Vomica is the best indicated drug to treat stomach problems that occur with the use of alcohol and coffee.
5. Iris Versicolor – For intermittent vomiting every 4 to 6 weeks
This medicine is recommended for cases where periodic episodes of vomiting occur at intervals of 4 to 6 weeks. Each episode may take 2 to 3 days. Vomiting is accompanied by nausea. Vomit is a sour tasting liquid. Before vomiting, pain is felt around the navel area. Sweating may occur after vomiting. Excessive heat in the head and weakness are also felt after vomiting. This drug is also extremely useful if nausea occurs after excessive exertion. Finally, it is of great use in cases where nausea and vomiting occur together with headache.
6. Cocculus Indicus – For nausea and vomiting caused by motion sickness
This is the best medicine to address cases where motion sickness seems to be causing the symptoms. When this medicine is needed, nausea and vomiting may occur while traveling in a car, train, or boat. It is accompanied by bitter and smelly burps. Vertigo may occur along with nausea and vomiting.
7. Veratrum album – with obvious exhaustion
This medicine is useful in controlling vomiting associated with intense exhaustion. There is excessive vomiting and persistent nausea. It is caused by drinking fluid and also by exercise. It may be accompanied by dizziness and cold sweats. In addition to vomiting, there may be loose movement.
8. Colocynth – With pain in the abdomen
Colocynth is considered for nausea and vomiting, accompanied by pain in the abdomen. Vomit may contain food or yellow-bitter fluid. Abdominal pain can be crampy or cutting in nature. It gets better by applying pressure and bending forward. In cases where anger provokes an episode of vomiting, Colocynth proves to be the most suitable drug.
9. Ferrum Met – For vomiting after exercise
This medicine is prominently indicated for vomiting after exertion. Together with vomiting, the face becomes fiery red. The person experiences nausea accompanied by headache. It is also indicated for vomiting that occurs shortly after eating. It is accompanied by a constant feeling of pressure in the stomach cavity. Vomit has a sour and sour taste.
10. Sepia – For nausea and vomiting during menstruation
This medicine gives great relief in cases where nausea and vomiting occur during menstruation. Headache may be felt on one side of the head. There is also excessive weakness with a desire to lie down. Nausea is made worse by the smell of cooked food.