A blood test to check cholesterol levels — called a lipid panel or lipid profile — typically reports: Total cholesterol LDL cholesterol HDL cholesterol Triglycerides — a type of fat in the blood Generally you’re required to fast, consuming no food or liquids other than water, for nine to 12 hours before the test. Some cholesterol tests don’t require fasting, so follow …

Because secondary hypertension is relatively rare, and screening for causes can be expensive and time-consuming, not every patient with high blood pressure will be tested for the condition. Your healthcare provider will test you if they feel there is a strong probable case. There are several factors that help determine if you should be screened for secondary hypertension. These factors …

Healthcare providers diagnose high blood pressure differently in children than in adults because healthy blood pressure levels change as a child grows. High blood pressure in children occurs when a child’s blood pressure is equal to or higher than that of 95% of other children of the same age, sex assigned at birth and height. Providers diagnose high blood pressure in children …

Healthcare providers diagnose high blood pressure by measuring it with an arm cuff. Providers usually measure your blood pressure at annual checkups and other appointments. If you have high blood pressure readings at two or more appointments, your provider may tell you that you have high blood pressure. They’ll talk to you about your medical history and lifestyle to identify possible causes. Blood pressure …

A review of your health history and a physical exam is typically all that’s necessary. Unfortunately, many healthcare providers may mistake HS for infection-related boils. A dermatologist has special training that helps them recognize the signs of hidradenitis suppurativa.

If you have hiccups for just a few minutes, you likely won’t think to call a healthcare provider. But you should call one if your hiccups last more than two days (persistent hiccups). They may ask you to come in for an appointment where they’ll: Learn your medical history, including any recent surgeries. Ask about medications you’re taking. Ask about …

Your healthcare provider will perform a physical exam to diagnose Ramsay Hunt syndrome. They’ll ask you about your medical history and symptoms. Your provider will look for a rash and signs of weakness in your face. Diagnosis can be difficult because the symptoms of the condition don’t always develop at the same time. Therefore, your provider may request a laboratory …

Your healthcare provider will do a thorough physical exam. During the exam, your provider will assess your pain, muscle reflexes, sensation and muscle strength. They may also perform a neurological exam and a straight leg raise test. With this test, your provider will have you lie on your back. Then, they’ll raise your leg straight in the air. If you experience any pain …

Healthcare providers find hiatal hernias by looking at images of your esophagus and stomach. Sometimes, they find it accidentally while looking for something else. If they’re looking for it, it’s usually because you have symptoms of acid reflux. They might begin with an esophageal pH test to confirm there’s acid in your esophagus. If there is, they’ll follow up with imaging tests …