Differential Diagnosis for Pain on Palpation of Mediating with Additional Symptoms of Nausea with Food and Liquid

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

• Gastroenteritis: This condition is characterized by inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, often due to viral or bacterial infections. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, which can be exacerbated by food and liquid intake. The pain on palpation (tenderness to the touch) could be indicative of an inflamed abdomen.

Other Likely Diagnoses

• Appendicitis: Although the pain typically starts near the navel and then moves to the lower right abdomen, some cases can present with more generalized abdominal pain. Nausea and vomiting are common, and the pain can worsen with movement or palpation.
• Gastritis: Inflammation of the stomach lining can cause pain, nausea, and vomiting, especially after eating or drinking. The pain is often in the upper abdomen and can be tender to palpation.
• Peptic Ulcer Disease: Ulcers in the stomach or duodenum can cause abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. The pain can be exacerbated by food, especially if it's spicy or acidic.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

• Intestinal Obstruction: A blockage in the intestine can cause severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and tenderness. This condition requires immediate medical attention as it can lead to tissue death and perforation.
• Perforated Viscus: A hole in the wall of the stomach or intestine can lead to peritonitis, an infection of the abdominal cavity. Symptoms include severe abdominal pain, tenderness, nausea, and vomiting. This is a medical emergency.
• Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas can cause severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and tenderness. It can be life-threatening if not promptly treated.

Rare Diagnoses

• Mesenteric Ischemia: A reduction in blood flow to the intestines can cause abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. It's more common in older adults and those with cardiovascular disease.
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis can cause chronic abdominal pain, nausea, and changes in bowel habits. While not typically acute, they can have flare-ups that present with severe symptoms.
• Abdominal Migraine: A condition that causes recurrent episodes of abdominal pain, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and headache. It's more common in children but can occur in adults.