Differential Diagnosis for Left Side Abdominal Pain Worse After Eating
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Diverticulitis: This condition is characterized by inflammation of the diverticula in the colon, which can cause abdominal pain, particularly on the left side. The pain often worsens after eating, especially if the meal is high in fiber or fat, which can put additional pressure on the diverticula.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): IBS can cause abdominal pain that worsens after eating due to increased bowel movements and gas production. The pain is often crampy and can be localized to the left side.
- Constipation: Constipation can cause abdominal pain, especially on the left side, due to the buildup of stool in the descending colon. Eating can exacerbate the pain if it leads to increased gas production or puts additional pressure on the colon.
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Although GERD typically causes heartburn and regurgitation, some patients may experience abdominal pain, particularly on the left side, which can worsen after eating due to increased acid production.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Splenic Infarction or Rupture: These conditions can cause severe left-sided abdominal pain that worsens after eating due to increased blood flow to the spleen. They are medical emergencies that require prompt attention.
- Pancreatitis: Pancreatitis can cause severe abdominal pain that radiates to the back and worsens after eating, especially if the meal is high in fat. It is a serious condition that requires prompt medical attention.
- Intestinal Obstruction: An intestinal obstruction can cause abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and constipation. The pain can worsen after eating due to increased bowel movements and gas production.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Splenic Artery Aneurysm: This is a rare condition that can cause left-sided abdominal pain that worsens after eating due to increased blood flow to the spleen.
- Gastric Volvulus: This is a rare condition where the stomach twists abnormally, causing abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. The pain can worsen after eating due to increased stomach movement.
- Left Ovarian Cyst or Torsion: Although more common in women, left ovarian cysts or torsion can cause left-sided abdominal pain that worsens after eating due to increased blood flow to the ovaries.