Differential Diagnosis for 68-year-old Male Patient with Digestive Problems and Pain
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): The patient has a history of gastritis and is taking medications that can irritate the stomach, such as naproxen. GERD is a common condition that can cause digestive problems and pain.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Peptic Ulcer Disease: The patient's history of gastritis and use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like naproxen increase the risk of peptic ulcers.
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): The patient's symptoms of digestive problems and pain, along with a history of constipation, could be consistent with IBS.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Although less likely, the patient's symptoms could be indicative of IBD, such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Gastrointestinal Cancer: Although rare, gastrointestinal cancer, such as stomach or colon cancer, can present with nonspecific symptoms like digestive problems and pain. It is essential to consider this diagnosis, especially in an older adult.
- Ischemic Bowel Disease: This condition can cause severe abdominal pain and is more common in older adults with a history of cardiovascular disease, like hypertension and dyslipidemia.
- Medication-Induced Gastrointestinal Injury: The patient's medications, such as naproxen and atorvastatin, can cause gastrointestinal injury, which can be severe and potentially life-threatening.
Rare Diagnoses
- Celiac Disease: An autoimmune disorder that can cause digestive problems and malabsorption, although it is less common in older adults.
- Gastroparesis: A condition characterized by delayed gastric emptying, which can cause digestive problems and pain, often associated with diabetes or other underlying conditions.
- Intestinal Obstruction: A rare but potentially life-threatening condition that can cause severe abdominal pain and digestive problems, often due to adhesions, hernias, or tumors.