Differential Diagnosis for Stomachache Post Food Intake
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): This is a common condition where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing stomachache and discomfort after eating. The symptoms are often exacerbated by food intake, especially trigger foods like citrus, tomatoes, and chocolate.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Characterized by abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel movements, IBS symptoms can be triggered by food intake. The exact cause is unknown, but it's a common condition that affects the large intestine.
- Peptic Ulcer Disease: Stomach ulcers or duodenal ulcers can cause stomachache after eating, especially if the ulcer is located in an area that comes into contact with food. The pain is often described as burning or gnawing.
- Food Intolerance: Lactose intolerance, gluten intolerance, or other food intolerances can cause stomachache, bloating, and diarrhea after consuming specific foods.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Acute Coronary Syndrome: Although less common, stomachache after eating can be a symptom of a heart attack, especially if the pain is accompanied by shortness of breath, dizziness, or radiating pain to the arm or jaw.
- Appendicitis: In some cases, appendicitis can present with stomachache that worsens after eating, especially if the appendix is located near the stomach or small intestine.
- Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas can cause severe stomachache that radiates to the back, often after eating, especially fatty or greasy foods.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Gastric Cancer: Stomach cancer can cause stomachache after eating, but it's a rare condition, especially in younger individuals.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (Crohn's Disease or Ulcerative Colitis): These chronic conditions can cause stomachache, diarrhea, and weight loss, but they are less common than other diagnoses on this list.
- Eosinophilic Esophagitis: A rare condition characterized by inflammation of the esophagus, often caused by a food allergy or intolerance, which can cause stomachache and difficulty swallowing after eating.