Differential Diagnosis for Stomach Distention and Smelly Stool
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): This condition is characterized by abdominal distention, bloating, and changes in bowel habits, which could include smelly stool. The symptoms have been present for 10 days, which is consistent with a functional gastrointestinal disorder like IBS.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Lactose Intolerance: This condition leads to bloating, gas, and smelly stools after consuming lactose-containing products due to the inability to digest lactose properly.
- Small Intestine Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO): SIBO can cause bloating, abdominal distention, and malabsorption leading to smelly stools. It occurs when there is an excessive growth of bacteria in the small intestine.
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Although primarily known for causing heartburn, GERD can also lead to bloating and discomfort after eating, potentially accompanied by changes in stool odor due to altered gut motility and potential malabsorption.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Intestinal Obstruction: Although less likely, an intestinal obstruction could cause severe abdominal distention and changes in bowel habits. It's a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis can cause significant gastrointestinal symptoms, including abdominal distention, diarrhea (which may be smelly), and weight loss. Early diagnosis is crucial for effective management.
- Celiac Disease: An autoimmune reaction to gluten that can lead to malabsorption, causing bloating, abdominal distention, and changes in stool, including smell. It's essential to diagnose to prevent long-term complications.
Rare Diagnoses
- Tropical Sprue: A rare condition that affects the small intestine's ability to absorb nutrients, leading to chronic diarrhea, weight loss, and potentially smelly stools. It's more common in tropical regions.
- Whipple's Disease: A rare, systemic bacterial infection that can cause malabsorption, leading to weight loss, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. It's crucial to consider in patients with persistent, unexplained gastrointestinal symptoms.
- Short Bowel Syndrome: A condition that results from a significant loss of intestinal tissue, leading to malabsorption. It can cause severe diarrhea, abdominal distention, and changes in stool consistency and odor.