Differential Diagnosis for Vomiting

• Single Most Likely Diagnosis
  • Gastroenteritis: This is the most common cause of vomiting, often due to viral or bacterial infections, and is usually self-limiting.
• Other Likely Diagnoses
  • Food poisoning: Similar to gastroenteritis, food poisoning can cause vomiting, usually within hours of consuming contaminated food.
  • Gastritis: Inflammation of the stomach lining can lead to vomiting, often accompanied by abdominal pain and nausea.
  • Pregnancy-related morning sickness: For women of childbearing age, morning sickness is a common cause of vomiting, especially during the first trimester.
  • Medication side effects: Various medications can induce vomiting as a side effect, including chemotherapy, antibiotics, and pain relievers.
• Do Not Miss Diagnoses
  • Appendicitis: Although less common, appendicitis can present with vomiting, especially if the appendix is near the stomach or intestine, causing irritation.
  • Intestinal obstruction: A blockage in the intestine can lead to severe vomiting, which is a medical emergency requiring prompt intervention.
  • Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas can cause severe abdominal pain and vomiting, often requiring hospitalization.
  • Meningitis: In severe cases, meningitis can cause vomiting, especially in children, along with symptoms like headache, fever, and stiff neck.
• Rare Diagnoses
  • Brain tumors: Certain brain tumors, especially those in the posterior fossa, can cause vomiting due to increased intracranial pressure.
  • Uremia: In patients with severe kidney disease, uremia can lead to vomiting among other symptoms like confusion and fatigue.
  • Addisonian crisis: A life-threatening condition where the adrenal glands do not produce enough cortisol and aldosterone, leading to vomiting, low blood pressure, and potentially death if not treated promptly.
  • Porphyrias: A group of rare genetic disorders that can cause acute episodes of vomiting, abdominal pain, and neurological symptoms.