A person who experiences the following symptoms for at least 3 months—with first onset at least 6 months prior—may have CVS:
- vomiting episodes that start with severe vomiting—several times per hour—and last less than 1 week
- three or more separate episodes of vomiting in the past year
- absence of nausea or vomiting between episodes
A person with CVS may experience abdominal pain, diarrhea, fever, dizziness, and sensitivity to light during vomiting episodes. Continued vomiting may cause severe dehydration that can be life threatening. Symptoms of dehydration include thirst, decreased urination, paleness, exhaustion, and listlessness. A person with any symptoms of dehydration should see a health care provider immediately.