Differential Diagnosis for 32 yo Female with Abdominal Pain and Acid Reflux
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): The patient's symptoms of increased acid reflux, indigestion, and abdominal pain, particularly the description of the pain being dull and sharp at times, are consistent with IBS. The fact that she is vegan and experiences ovulation pain also supports this diagnosis, as dietary factors and hormonal changes can exacerbate IBS symptoms.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): The patient's symptoms of increased acid reflux and indigestion suggest GERD, which can be exacerbated by dietary factors and may contribute to the abdominal pain.
- Ovarian Cyst or Torsion: The patient's report of left lower quadrant pain that feels like ovulation pain but persists suggests the possibility of an ovarian cyst or torsion, particularly given her history of ovulation.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Although less likely, the patient's symptoms of abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits (although she reports normal bowel movements) could suggest IBD, such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Ectopic Pregnancy: Although the patient reports ovulating, an ectopic pregnancy must be considered, particularly if there is any possibility of pregnancy. This diagnosis is critical to rule out due to its potential for severe consequences if missed.
- Appendicitis: The patient's report of left lower quadrant pain could suggest appendicitis, which can present with atypical symptoms, particularly in women. This diagnosis is crucial to consider due to the potential for severe complications if appendicitis is not promptly treated.
- Ovarian Torsion: As mentioned earlier, ovarian torsion is a critical diagnosis to consider, as it can lead to severe consequences, including loss of the ovary, if not promptly treated.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Endometriosis: Although the patient's symptoms could suggest endometriosis, this diagnosis is less likely given the absence of other typical symptoms, such as heavy menstrual bleeding or dyspareunia.
- Diverticulitis: The patient's age and symptoms make diverticulitis less likely, but it cannot be entirely ruled out, particularly if she has a history of diverticulosis.
- Intestinal Obstruction: This diagnosis is unlikely given the patient's report of normal bowel movements, but it must be considered if her symptoms worsen or if she experiences severe abdominal pain or vomiting.