Differential Diagnosis for Left Sided Abdominal Pain and Changes in Bowel Habits
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): This is the most likely diagnosis given the symptoms of abdominal pain, burning sensation, and changes in bowel habits. IBS is a common condition characterized by recurring abdominal pain and changes in bowel movements, which can be diarrhea-predominant, constipation-predominant, or mixed.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Diverticulitis: Inflammation of the diverticula in the colon can cause left-sided abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, and potentially fever. It's more common in older adults but can occur in younger individuals.
- Constipation: Although the patient mentions passing stools every 2-3 days, constipation can cause abdominal pain and discomfort, especially if the patient is used to having daily bowel movements.
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): While GERD typically presents with heartburn and regurgitation, some patients may experience abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits due to the reflux of stomach contents into the esophagus.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Colorectal Cancer: Although less common in younger individuals, colorectal cancer can present with abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, and potentially weight loss or rectal bleeding. It's crucial to rule out this diagnosis, especially if there's a family history.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis can cause chronic abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, and potentially weight loss, fatigue, and rectal bleeding.
- Intestinal Obstruction: A partial or complete blockage of the intestine can cause severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and changes in bowel habits. This is a medical emergency that requires prompt attention.
- Appendicitis (if pain migrates): Although appendicitis typically presents with right lower quadrant pain, it can occasionally start in the left side or be atypical in its presentation, especially in younger individuals.
Rare Diagnoses
- Ischemic Colitis: Reduced blood flow to the colon can cause sudden onset of abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, and potentially rectal bleeding. This condition is more common in older adults with cardiovascular disease.
- Intussusception: A condition where a part of the intestine telescopes into another part, causing abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, and potentially vomiting or rectal bleeding. It's rare in adults but can occur.
- Malrotation or Volvulus: Abnormal rotation of the intestine or twisting of the intestine can cause severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and changes in bowel habits. These conditions are more common in children but can occur in adults.