Diagnosis Giant cell arteritis can be challenging to diagnose because its early symptoms are similar to those of other common conditions. To make an accurate diagnosis, your doctor will review your medical history, discuss your symptoms, and perform a detailed physical exam, paying special attention to your temporal arteries. These arteries may feel tender, have a reduced pulse, or appear …

Diagnosis To diagnose an arteriovenous malformation (AVM), a healthcare professional reviews your symptoms and conducts a physical examination. Your provider may listen for a bruit, a whooshing sound caused by rapid blood flow through the arteries and veins of an AVM. This sound can sometimes affect hearing, disturb sleep, or cause emotional distress. Tests commonly used to diagnose AVM include: …

Diagnosis To diagnose an arteriovenous fistula (AVF), a healthcare provider typically begins with a physical examination. Using a stethoscope, the provider listens for abnormal blood flow sounds in the arms or legs. The blood passing through an AVF often produces a humming or whooshing sound. If an AVF is suspected, additional tests may be performed to confirm the diagnosis. Common …

Diagnosis To diagnose atherosclerosis, your healthcare professional will examine you and listen to your heart. You will be asked about symptoms and family medical history. Referral to a cardiologist—a specialist in heart diseases—may be needed. Your healthcare provider may hear a whooshing sound when listening to your heart with a stethoscope. Tests Blood tests. These check cholesterol and blood sugar …

Diagnosis Diagnosing a heart arrhythmia involves a detailed evaluation by a healthcare professional, including a review of symptoms, medical history, and specialized heart tests. The goal is to determine whether the heart’s rhythm is irregular and to identify any underlying conditions contributing to it. Common diagnostic tests include: Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): A quick and painless test that measures the …

Diagnosis To diagnose Chiari malformation, your healthcare professional will review your medical history, discuss your symptoms, and perform a physical examination. Imaging tests are essential to confirm the diagnosis and identify the cause. These may include: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI):MRI is the primary test used to diagnose Chiari malformation. It uses powerful radio waves and magnets to produce detailed 3D …

Diagnosis of a Broken Arm Your doctor will examine your arm for tenderness, swelling, deformity, or an open wound. After discussing your symptoms and the cause of the injury, your doctor may order: X-rays: To determine the location and extent of the break. MRI or CT scan: Occasionally used for more detailed images. Types of Arm Fractures Open (compound) fracture: …

Diagnosis Diagnosing viral hemorrhagic fevers can be difficult in the early stages because the first symptoms, such as fever, muscle aches, headache, and tiredness, are common to many other illnesses. If you suspect you may have a viral hemorrhagic fever, contact your healthcare professional immediately and inform them before visiting any clinic or emergency room. Your healthcare professional will review …

Diagnosis of Appendicitis To help diagnose appendicitis, a healthcare professional will take a medical history and carefully examine the abdomen. Several tests may be used to confirm the diagnosis. Physical exam: Gentle pressure is applied to the painful area. When the pressure is suddenly released, appendicitis pain often worsens due to inflammation of the peritoneum. Guarding (involuntary tensing of the …

Diagnosis of Broken Heart Syndrome Broken heart syndrome is often diagnosed in an emergency or hospital setting because its symptoms can mimic a heart attack. During the examination: Your healthcare professional will ask about symptoms and medical history. You may be asked about recent major stresses, such as the death of a loved one. People with broken heart syndrome usually …