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Last updated: October 20, 2025View editorial policy

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Differential Diagnosis for Vomiting and Confusion

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): This is a common cause of confusion and vomiting, especially in the elderly or those with compromised immune systems. The infection can lead to urosepsis, which presents with systemic symptoms including confusion, vomiting, and fever.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Gastroenteritis: Inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, often due to viral or bacterial infections, can cause vomiting and lead to dehydration, which may result in confusion.
  • Dehydration: Severe dehydration from any cause can lead to confusion and vomiting due to electrolyte imbalances and decreased blood volume.
  • Medication Side Effects: Certain medications can cause confusion and vomiting as side effects, especially in elderly patients or those with polypharmacy.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Septicemia: Bacterial infections in the blood can cause confusion, vomiting, and a range of other systemic symptoms. Early recognition and treatment are crucial.
  • Meningitis: Inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord can present with confusion, vomiting, and fever. It requires immediate medical attention.
  • Encephalitis: Inflammation of the brain tissue, usually caused by viral infections, can lead to confusion, vomiting, and other neurological symptoms.
  • Acute Kidney Injury: Sudden loss of kidney function can cause a buildup of toxins, leading to confusion and vomiting.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Reye's Syndrome: A rare but serious condition that causes swelling in the liver and brain, often associated with aspirin use during viral infections. It presents with vomiting, confusion, and can progress to seizures and coma.
  • Wernicke's Encephalopathy: A neurological disorder caused by thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency, often seen in alcoholics. It can present with confusion, vomiting, and ophthalmoplegia.
  • Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: Bleeding into the space between the brain and the tissue that covers it can cause sudden severe headache, confusion, and vomiting.

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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