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Differential Diagnosis for Visibly Distended Upper Abdomen

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Functional Dyspepsia: This condition is characterized by recurring symptoms of upper abdominal discomfort or pain that are not explained by other medical conditions. The symptoms can be exacerbated by eating and may include bloating and flatulence, making it a plausible explanation for the described symptoms.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): While primarily known for causing heartburn, GERD can also lead to bloating and discomfort in the upper abdomen, especially after eating.
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Although IBS typically affects the lower abdomen, some individuals may experience upper abdominal bloating and discomfort, accompanied by flatulence.
  • Gastroparesis: A condition where the stomach takes too long to empty its contents, leading to bloating, discomfort, and nausea, especially after meals.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Gastric Cancer: Although less common, gastric cancer can present with non-specific symptoms such as abdominal bloating and discomfort. Early detection is crucial for treatment outcomes.
  • Pancreatic Cancer: Similar to gastric cancer, pancreatic cancer can cause vague abdominal symptoms, including bloating and discomfort, particularly in the upper abdomen.
  • Peptic Ulcer Disease: Complicated peptic ulcers can lead to significant morbidity if not promptly diagnosed and treated.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Celiac Disease: An autoimmune disorder where the ingestion of gluten leads to damage in the small intestine, causing bloating, abdominal discomfort, and other gastrointestinal symptoms.
  • Small Intestine Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO): A condition characterized by an excessive growth of bacteria in the small intestine, leading to bloating, gas, and abdominal discomfort.
  • Abdominal Lymphoma: A type of cancer that affects the immune system and can present with non-specific abdominal symptoms, including bloating and discomfort.

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Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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