Differential Diagnosis for Diarrhea and Nausea
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Viral Gastroenteritis: This is the most common cause of acute diarrhea and nausea, often due to norovirus or rotavirus, and typically resolves on its own within a few days.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Bacterial Gastroenteritis: Caused by bacteria such as Salmonella, E. coli, or Campylobacter, often from contaminated food or water, and can be treated with antibiotics if severe.
- Food Poisoning: Similar to bacterial gastroenteritis but typically has a shorter incubation period and is caused by consuming contaminated or spoiled food.
- Medication-Induced Diarrhea: Certain medications, such as antibiotics, can cause diarrhea as a side effect.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Appendicitis: Although less common, appendicitis can present with nausea and diarrhea, especially if the appendix is located near the sigmoid colon, and requires immediate surgical intervention.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis can cause chronic diarrhea and nausea, and while not immediately life-threatening, require proper management to prevent complications.
- Intestinal Obstruction: A blockage in the intestines can cause severe diarrhea and nausea, and is a medical emergency requiring prompt intervention.
Rare Diagnoses
- Giardiasis: An intestinal infection caused by the Giardia parasite, more common in travelers to certain areas or those with compromised immune systems.
- Celiac Disease: An autoimmune reaction to gluten that can cause chronic diarrhea and nausea, among other symptoms.
- Whipple's Disease: A rare bacterial infection that can cause malabsorption, diarrhea, and weight loss, often requiring antibiotic treatment.