Diagnosis A medical evaluation for dyspareunia typically begins with a detailed assessment of your symptoms and health history. Your healthcare professional may ask when the pain started, where it occurs, what it feels like and whether it happens with every partner or in every sexual position. Questions about sexual history, childbirth and any past surgeries help identify possible causes. Providing …
Dyslexia
Diagnosis There is no single test to diagnose dyslexia. A comprehensive evaluation is necessary, combining information from medical, developmental, educational, and psychological assessments. Diagnosis typically includes: Developmental and medical history: The healthcare provider reviews the child’s early development, medical background, and family history of learning difficulties such as dyslexia. Questionnaires and assessments: Teachers, parents, and sometimes the child complete questionnaires …
Dyshidrosis
Diagnosis Dyshidrosis, also known as dyshidrotic eczema, is typically diagnosed based on the appearance of the skin and the pattern of symptoms. A dermatologist can usually identify the condition through a physical examination of the hands, fingers, and feet where small, fluid-filled blisters often appear. There are no specific laboratory tests for dyshidrosis, but certain diagnostic steps may be used …
Dysarthria
Diagnosis Diagnosing dysarthria usually begins with a detailed evaluation by a speech-language pathologist. This specialist examines the type and pattern of speech difficulty, which helps guide the neurologist in identifying the underlying cause. During the evaluation, you may be asked to read aloud, repeat words, or form sentences while the speech-language pathologist listens closely to your speech. They assess how …
Dwarfism
Diagnosis Diagnosing dwarfism usually involves several steps to understand your child’s growth and identify any underlying condition. A pediatrician may refer your child to specialists in endocrinology or genetics. In some cases, disproportionate dwarfism can be suspected during prenatal ultrasound if the limbs appear significantly shorter than the trunk. Diagnostic tests may include: Measurements: During regular checkups, height, weight, and …
Dural Arteriovenous Fistulas
Diagnosis If your healthcare professional suspects a dural arteriovenous fistula (dAVF), several imaging tests may be used to confirm the diagnosis and evaluate the extent of the condition. These tests help identify irregular connections between arteries and veins in the dura mater of the brain. Common diagnostic tests include: CT scans to detect fluid buildup, bleeding, or signs of increased …
Dupuytren Contracture
Diagnosis Dupuytren contracture is diagnosed through a physical examination of the hands. The doctor checks for thickened tissue under the skin and measures how much the fingers can straighten. In most cases, imaging tests are not required. Treatment Treatment depends on the severity of the condition and how much it limits hand movement. Options may include: Needle aponeurotomy to break …
Dumping Syndrome
Diagnosis Dumping syndrome is usually diagnosed based on symptoms and medical history, especially after stomach surgery. To confirm the diagnosis, your doctor may perform: Gastric emptying test to measure how quickly food moves from the stomach to the small intestine Oral glucose tolerance test to check for late dumping caused by a surge in insulin Upper endoscopy or X-rays with …
Drug Allergy
Diagnosis An accurate diagnosis is essential in identifying a true drug allergy. Research shows that drug allergies are often overdiagnosed, with many people reporting allergies that have never been confirmed. This can lead to the use of alternative treatments that may be less effective or more expensive. A healthcare professional begins by reviewing your medical history, performing a physical exam, …
Foot Drop
Diagnosis Foot drop is typically diagnosed during a physical examination. Your healthcare provider will observe your walking pattern (gait) and check your leg muscles for weakness. They may also test for numbness or reduced sensation along your shin, foot, and toes — areas commonly affected by nerve problems. Imaging Tests Sometimes, foot drop is caused by a mass or structural …









