Differential Diagnosis for Post-Vomiting Protruding Tongue

• Single most likely diagnosis
  • Dehydration: This is the most likely diagnosis as vomiting can lead to dehydration, which in turn can cause a protruding tongue due to changes in the body's electrolyte balance and fluid status.
• Other Likely diagnoses
  • Gastroenteritis: Infections of the stomach and intestines can cause vomiting, leading to dehydration and potentially a protruding tongue.
  • Food poisoning: Similar to gastroenteritis, food poisoning can cause severe vomiting, resulting in dehydration and a protruding tongue.
  • Motion sickness: Prolonged vomiting from motion sickness can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, causing a protruding tongue.
• Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
  • Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA): Although less common, DKA can cause vomiting and dehydration, leading to a protruding tongue. Missing this diagnosis can be fatal.
  • Brain tumor or increased intracranial pressure: In rare cases, vomiting can be a sign of increased intracranial pressure or a brain tumor, which would require immediate medical attention.
• Rare diagnoses
  • Botulism: A rare but serious illness that can cause vomiting, dehydration, and neurological symptoms, including a protruding tongue.
  • Tetanus: Another rare condition that can cause muscle stiffness and spasms, potentially leading to a protruding tongue.
  • Diphtheria: A bacterial infection that can cause a range of symptoms, including vomiting and neurological issues, which may result in a protruding tongue.