Differential Diagnosis for Food Feeling Stuck then Throwing Up
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): This condition is characterized by the backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus, which can cause a sensation of food being stuck and lead to vomiting. The symptoms align closely with the common presentation of GERD.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Esophageal Dysmotility: Disorders affecting the movement of food through the esophagus can cause a sensation of food being stuck and may lead to regurgitation or vomiting.
- Peptic Ulcer Disease: Ulcers in the stomach or duodenum can cause nausea, vomiting, and a feeling of food being stuck, especially if the ulcer is obstructing the passage of food.
- Food Allergies or Intolerances: Severe reactions to certain foods can lead to immediate symptoms including vomiting after eating.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Esophageal Obstruction: A physical blockage in the esophagus, which could be due to a foreign body, tumor, or stricture, is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.
- Acute Coronary Syndrome: Although less common, vomiting can be a symptom of a heart attack, especially in women, and is crucial not to miss due to its high mortality rate if untreated.
- Pulmonary Embolism: Severe cases can present with vomiting among other symptoms, and it's critical to consider this diagnosis due to its high risk of mortality.
Rare Diagnoses
- Eosinophilic Esophagitis: A chronic immune system disease in which a type of white blood cell, the eosinophil, builds up in the esophagus in response to an allergen or irritant, leading to difficulty swallowing and food getting stuck.
- Achalasia: A rare disorder of the esophagus that makes swallowing difficult, leading to food accumulation in the esophagus and potentially causing regurgitation or vomiting.
- Rumination Syndrome: A condition where food is regurgitated and then chewed and swallowed again, which can lead to a feeling of food being stuck and subsequent vomiting.