GUIDE

Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome: A Home Plan for Episodes, Recovery, and Prevention

A parent friendly plan aligned with paediatric gastro guidance, including prodrome actions and return to baseline.

Gut and Sleep Gut and Sleep 14 min CVS Prodrome Hydration

Map

What is happening

Tune

Drop friction fast

Weave

Skills into real life

Micro wins

Stack small proof

🚨 Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome overview

CVS is characterised by repeated episodes of intense vomiting with periods of wellness. Many children have migraine associations and a recognisable early warning phase.

MTWM METHOD: Build the episode plan before the episode

Your plan has three phases: prodrome, episode, and recovery. Put it in your phone notes. Share with school.

Prodrome phase: early warning actions

Stop demands fast. Create a low stimulation zone.
Start small sips of oral rehydration solution if tolerated.
If your clinician has prescribed medicines for prodrome, follow that plan.
Warm pack, dim lighting, and sleep attempt.

🧩 MTWM clever strategy: The Night Bag

Keep a small CVS bag ready: spare sheets, oral rehydration, wipes, a dim torch, and a calm script card. When the bag comes out, the household goes into quiet mode.

Episode phase: protect hydration and safety

Do not force large drinks. Use teaspoons or small sips frequently if tolerated.
If vomiting is severe or dehydration signs appear, seek urgent medical care.
Keep sensory input low. The brain is in threat mode.

Recovery phase: gentle return

Start with clear fluids, then simple carbs, then normal foods as tolerated.
Expect fatigue and mood wobble. This is not behaviour. It is recovery.
Return to routine in small steps.

Prevention supports to discuss with clinicians

Migraine style prevention strategies, sleep regularity, hydration routine.
Managing anxiety and anticipatory fear with CBT skills.
Identifying triggers without turning life into restriction.