Diagnosis To diagnose an ectopic pregnancy, your healthcare professional will perform a combination of physical exams, blood tests, and imaging studies. A pelvic exam can help identify tenderness, pain, or a mass near the ovaries or fallopian tubes, but it alone cannot confirm an ectopic pregnancy. Additional tests are needed to make a definitive diagnosis. Pregnancy test (HCG blood test): …
Diagnosis Ebstein anomaly is diagnosed through a combination of physical examination, imaging tests, and electrocardiographic studies that assess heart structure and function. This rare congenital heart defect affects the tricuspid valve and the right side of the heart. Tests used to diagnose Ebstein anomaly include: Physical exam: Your healthcare professional may detect abnormal heart sounds such as a murmur, caused …
Diagnosis Eating disorders are diagnosed through an evaluation of symptoms, eating behaviors, and overall health. You may be assessed by both a primary healthcare provider and a mental health professional to confirm the diagnosis. To reach an accurate diagnosis, several assessments may be done: Physical exam: A healthcare provider examines you to rule out other medical causes for your eating …
Diagnosis The diagnosis of precocious puberty involves a careful evaluation to determine whether puberty has started earlier than normal and to identify the underlying cause. Healthcare professionals begin by reviewing the child’s medical history along with the family’s medical history. A physical examination is then performed to look for physical signs of early pubertal development. Blood tests are commonly used …
Diagnosis A ruptured eardrum is often diagnosed during an ear exam using an otoscope, a tool with a light that allows a healthcare professional or ENT specialist to see the eardrum clearly. Additional tests may be used to determine the cause of symptoms or check for hearing loss. Lab tests can analyze fluid draining from the ear to identify a …
Diagnosis A healthcare professional can usually diagnose swimmer’s ear during an office visit. Advanced or persistent infections may require further testing. First steps in diagnosis often include: Examining the ear canal with a lighted tool called an otoscope. The canal may appear red, swollen, and scaly, with possible skin flakes or debris. Redness may be less noticeable on darker skin …
Diagnosis A healthcare professional can often diagnose an ear infection based on symptoms and a physical examination. The exam typically involves using an otoscope, a lighted instrument that helps visualize the eardrum. If the eardrum appears red and bulging, it is a sign of infection. Additional tests may be needed if the diagnosis is uncertain, if the condition does not …
Diagnosis To diagnose an illness caused by E. coli infection, your healthcare provider will typically request a stool sample. The sample is sent to a laboratory, where tests are performed to detect the presence of E. coli bacteria. If E. coli is found, the lab may culture the bacteria to confirm the diagnosis and identify specific toxins, such as those …
Diagnosis Diagnosing dystonia begins with a detailed medical history and a physical examination by your healthcare provider. The goal is to identify underlying conditions or causes that may be contributing to your symptoms. Common diagnostic tests include: Blood or urine tests: These help detect signs of toxins or metabolic conditions that could be causing or worsening dystonia. MRI or CT …
Diagnosis To diagnose persistent depressive disorder, a healthcare professional may perform several exams and tests: • Physical exam to review overall health and identify underlying conditions that may contribute to depressive symptoms.• Lab tests, such as blood tests to check thyroid function and rule out conditions like hypothyroidism.• Psychological evaluation, including discussion of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and possibly completing …