Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) Practice Exam

Which of the following is the most likely cause of abdominal pain and nausea?

1. Hyperglycemia

2. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

3. High cholesterol

4. Chronic fatigue syndrome

The correct answer is: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common gastrointestinal disorder that affects the large intestine, leading to a range of symptoms including abdominal pain, cramping, and nausea. People with IBS often experience a fluctuating pattern of symptoms that can be triggered by various factors such as stress, certain foods, or hormonal changes. IBS specifically involves alterations in bowel habits, which can lead to discomfort in the abdominal area and feelings of nausea. These characteristics are notably prominent in IBS, making it the most likely cause compared to the other choices. While hyperglycemia can cause nausea, its primary symptoms are more related to blood sugar levels and not typically focused on abdominal pain as a significant feature. Likewise, high cholesterol generally does not produce symptoms like abdominal pain or nausea since it often lacks immediate physical manifestations. Chronic fatigue syndrome is primarily characterized by extreme fatigue and does not typically present with notable abdominal symptoms. Therefore, given its nature and symptomatology, Irritable Bowel Syndrome stands out as the best choice when identifying the most likely cause of abdominal pain and nausea.