Differential Diagnosis for Simultaneous Vomiting and Abdominal Pain
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Gastroenteritis: This is often the most common cause of simultaneous vomiting and abdominal pain, typically resulting from a viral or bacterial infection. The symptoms can range from mild to severe and are often accompanied by diarrhea.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Food Poisoning: Similar to gastroenteritis, food poisoning can cause sudden onset of vomiting and abdominal pain, usually after consuming contaminated food.
- Appendicitis: Although it typically presents with pain that migrates to the lower right abdomen, appendicitis can initially cause generalized abdominal pain and vomiting.
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): While more commonly associated with heartburn, severe GERD can lead to vomiting and abdominal pain, especially after eating.
- Peptic Ulcer Disease: Ulcers in the stomach or duodenum can cause abdominal pain and vomiting, especially if they bleed or perforate.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Intestinal Obstruction: A blockage in the intestine can cause severe abdominal pain and vomiting. This condition requires immediate medical attention.
- Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas can cause severe abdominal pain and vomiting, and it is crucial to diagnose and treat promptly.
- Ectopic Pregnancy: In women of childbearing age, an ectopic pregnancy can cause abdominal pain and vomiting, and it is a medical emergency.
- Perforated Viscus: A hole in the stomach, intestine, or other abdominal organ can lead to severe abdominal pain and vomiting, requiring immediate surgical intervention.
Rare Diagnoses
- Porphyria: A group of disorders that can cause abdominal pain, vomiting, and neurological symptoms due to a deficiency in heme production.
- Addisonian Crisis: A life-threatening condition caused by a severe deficiency of cortisol and aldosterone, leading to abdominal pain, vomiting, and other systemic symptoms.
- Hereditary Angioedema: A rare genetic disorder that can cause episodes of severe abdominal pain and vomiting due to angioedema of the bowel wall.
- Carcinoid Syndrome: A condition caused by a neuroendocrine tumor secreting serotonin, leading to abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and other symptoms.