Differential Diagnosis for Vomiting with Food
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): This condition is characterized by the backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus, often triggered by eating, which can lead to vomiting. The association of vomiting with food intake is a common presentation.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Food poisoning or gastroenteritis: Infections of the gastrointestinal tract can cause vomiting after eating, especially if the food consumed is contaminated.
- Gastroparesis: A condition where the stomach takes too long to empty its contents, leading to nausea and vomiting after meals.
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Although primarily associated with abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits, some individuals with IBS may experience nausea and vomiting, particularly in relation to food intake.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Intestinal obstruction: A blockage in the intestines that can cause severe vomiting, especially after eating, and requires immediate medical attention.
- Appendicitis: Inflammation of the appendix can lead to vomiting and is a surgical emergency.
- Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas can cause severe abdominal pain and vomiting, which may be exacerbated by food intake.
- Rare diagnoses
- Cyclic vomiting syndrome: A rare condition characterized by recurring episodes of severe vomiting, which can be triggered by eating.
- Rumination syndrome: A condition where food is regurgitated and then chewed and swallowed again, often accompanied by vomiting.
- 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 vomiting.