The symptoms of cyclic vomiting syndrome often begin in the morning. Signs and symptoms include:

• Three or more recurrent episodes of vomiting that start around the same time and last for a similar length of time
• Varying intervals of generally normal health without nausea between episodes
• Intense nausea and sweating before an episode starts

Other signs and symptoms during a vomiting episode may include:

• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness
• Sensitivity to light
• Headache
• Retching or gagging

The underlying cause of cyclic vomiting syndrome is unknown. Some possible causes include genes, digestive difficulties, nervous system problems and hormone imbalances. Specific bouts of vomiting may be triggered by:

• Colds, allergies or sinus problems
• Emotional stress or excitement, especially in children
• Anxiety or panic attacks, especially in adults
• Certain foods and drinks, such as alcohol, caffeine, chocolate or cheese
• Overeating, eating right before going to bed or fasting
• Hot weather
• Physical exhaustion
• Exercising too much
• Menstruation
• Motion sickness

Identifying the triggers for vomiting episodes may help with managing cyclic vomiting syndrome.

The relationship between migraines and cyclic vomiting syndrome isn't clear. But many children with cyclic vomiting syndrome have a family history of migraines or have migraines themselves when they get older. In adults, the association between cyclic vomiting syndrome and migraine may be lower.

Chronic use of marijuana (Cannabis sativa) also has been associated with cyclic vomiting syndrome because some people use marijuana to relieve their nausea. However, chronic marijuana use can lead to a condition called cannabis hyperemesis syndrome, which typically leads to persistent vomiting without normal intervening periods. People with this syndrome often demonstrate frequent showering or bathing behavior.

Cannabis hyperemesis syndrome can be confused with cyclic vomiting syndrome. To rule out cannabis hyperemesis syndrome, you need to stop using marijuana for at least one to two weeks to see if vomiting lessens. If it doesn't, your doctor will continue testing for cyclic vomiting syndrome.

Cyclic vomiting syndrome can cause these complications:

• Dehydration. Excessive vomiting causes the body to lose water quickly. Severe cases of dehydration may need to be treated in the hospital.
• Injury to the food tube. The stomach acid that comes up with the vomit can damage the tube that connects the mouth and stomach (esophagus). Sometimes the esophagus becomes so irritated it bleeds.
• Tooth decay. The acid in vomit can corrode tooth enamel.