A patient presents symptoms of periumbilical pain. What condition might be suspected?

The presence of periumbilical pain is often associated with various abdominal conditions, but certain conditions are more closely linked with this symptom. In the case of small bowel obstruction, the pain typically starts around the umbilical region and can be accompanied by other symptoms such as bloating, vomiting, and changes in bowel habits. This is due to the buildup of intestinal contents when the flow is interrupted, leading to stretching and discomfort in the area.

Appendicitis, while it can initially cause periumbilical pain, typically localizes to the right lower quadrant as the condition progresses, making it less likely if only periumbilical pain is present. Gastroenteritis often presents with diffuse abdominal pain associated with diarrhea and vomiting, which is generally not characterized by confined periumbilical pain. In diverticulitis, pain is more commonly felt in the lower left quadrant due to the location of the diverticula in the colon.

Thus, considering the localization and nature of the pain, as well as accompanying symptoms, small bowel obstruction is a likely condition when a patient presents with periumbilical pain.