Differential Diagnosis for Abdominal Pain and Postprandial Vomiting
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): This condition is characterized by the backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus, leading to symptoms of abdominal pain and vomiting after eating, especially if the meal is large or contains trigger foods.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Peptic Ulcer Disease: Ulcers in the stomach or duodenum can cause abdominal pain and vomiting, especially after eating, due to the irritation of the ulcer by food and stomach acid.
- Gastritis: Inflammation of the stomach lining can lead to abdominal pain and vomiting, often related to eating, and can be caused by various factors including infection, alcohol, or medications.
- Functional Dyspepsia: A condition characterized by recurring abdominal pain and vomiting after eating, without an identifiable cause, which can significantly impact quality of life.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Appendicitis: Although abdominal pain typically starts around the navel and then moves to the lower right abdomen, vomiting can occur, and missing this diagnosis can lead to severe consequences if the appendix ruptures.
- Intestinal Obstruction: A blockage in the intestine can cause severe abdominal pain and vomiting, especially after eating, and requires immediate medical attention to prevent complications.
- Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas can cause severe abdominal pain and vomiting, and while it may not always be directly related to eating, it is a critical condition that should not be missed.
Rare Diagnoses
- Gastric Cancer: Although rare, especially in younger populations, gastric cancer can present with abdominal pain and vomiting after eating, among other symptoms, and is important to consider in the differential diagnosis, especially in high-risk individuals.
- Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome: A rare disorder characterized by excessive production of stomach acid, leading to severe ulcers and symptoms of abdominal pain and vomiting, often related to eating.
- Eosinophilic Gastroenteritis: A rare condition involving eosinophilic infiltration of the gastrointestinal tract, which can cause abdominal pain, vomiting, and other gastrointestinal symptoms, potentially related to food intake.