Diagnosis Diagnosing sarcoidosis can be challenging because early symptoms may be minimal or similar to those of other conditions. Evaluation begins with a physical exam and a discussion about symptoms and possible risk factors. A healthcare professional listens to the heart and lungs, checks for swollen lymph nodes and examines any skin lesions that may suggest involvement. There is no …
Salmonella Infection
Diagnosis Diagnosis of salmonella infection typically begins with an assessment of symptoms. Many people show clear signs such as diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps, which help guide initial evaluation. A stool sample test can confirm the presence of salmonella bacteria. However, results often return after symptoms have already improved. In certain cases, especially when a bloodstream infection is suspected, a …
Salivary Gland Tumors
Diagnosis Diagnosis of a salivary gland tumor often begins with a physical examination. A healthcare professional assesses the jaw, neck, and throat to check for lumps, swelling, or changes in the salivary glands. If anything unusual is found, imaging tests and a biopsy may be used to determine the tumor’s location and the type of cells involved. A physical exam …
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
Diagnosis Diagnosing seasonal affective disorder (SAD) can be challenging because other forms of depression and mental health conditions may produce similar symptoms. A thorough evaluation usually includes: Physical exam: Your healthcare provider may examine you and ask detailed questions about your health to rule out physical conditions that could cause depression. Lab tests: Blood tests such as a complete blood …
Sacroiliitis
Diagnosis Diagnosis of sacroiliitis begins with a physical exam. A health care provider may gently press on the hips and buttocks to identify the source of pain. The legs may also be moved into different positions to apply stress to the sacroiliac joints and check for discomfort. Imaging tests can help confirm the cause of symptoms. An X-ray of the …
Ruptured Spleen
Diagnosis Diagnosing a ruptured spleen typically involves a combination of physical examination, lab tests and imaging. During a physical exam, a healthcare provider gently presses the abdomen to assess the spleen’s size and check for tenderness. Blood tests are often done to measure platelet count and evaluate how well the blood clots. In emergency situations, the medical team may check …
Rumination Syndrome
Diagnosis A diagnosis of rumination syndrome begins with a review of symptoms and a detailed medical history. This initial evaluation, along with observing the pattern of regurgitation, is often enough for a healthcare professional to identify the condition. In some cases, additional tests such as high-resolution esophageal manometry and impedance measurement may be used. These tests help detect increased abdominal …
Rotavirus
Diagnosis A diagnosis of rotavirus infection is usually based on a combination of factors. These include the child’s symptoms, age and the time of year the illness appears, as rotavirus infections are more common in certain seasons. Information about close contacts who have had rotavirus can also help guide the diagnosis. In some cases, a stool sample may be collected …
Rotator Cuff Injury
Diagnosis A physical exam is the first step in diagnosing a rotator cuff injury. During this exam, a healthcare professional presses on different parts of the shoulder, moves the arm into various positions and checks the strength of the shoulder and arm muscles. Imaging tests may be used to support the diagnosis. These can include: X-rays, which help detect bone …
Roseola
Diagnosis Roseola is often diagnosed based on symptoms. Early signs may look like other childhood illnesses, including measles. However, the rash patterns differ. A roseola rash usually begins on the chest or back, while a measles rash typically starts on the head. In some cases, a blood test may be done to confirm the diagnosis when symptoms are unclear. Treatment …









