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 …
Rosacea
Diagnosis A healthcare professional usually diagnoses rosacea by examining the skin and asking about symptoms. Tests may be done to rule out other conditions that can look similar, such as psoriasis or lupus. Some signs, including flushing and visible veins, may be harder to see on brown and Black skin. Because of this, other symptoms such as facial stinging, swelling, …
Ringworm (Scalp)
Diagnosis A healthcare professional can often diagnose ringworm of the scalp by examining the affected skin and asking questions about symptoms. To confirm the condition, a small sample of hair or skin may be collected and sent to a lab. Testing these samples can show whether a fungus is present and help rule out other scalp conditions with similar symptoms. …
Ringworm (Body)
Diagnosis A healthcare professional can often diagnose ringworm simply by examining the affected skin. In some cases, skin scrapings are taken from the rash so they can be viewed under a microscope. This helps confirm the presence of fungi and rule out other skin conditions that may look similar. Treatment If over-the-counter antifungal products do not clear the infection, a …
Tinnitus
Diagnosis Your doctor will typically diagnose tinnitus based on your symptoms alone. To guide treatment, your doctor will also try to determine whether your tinnitus is linked to another underlying condition. In some cases, a cause cannot be identified. To help pinpoint the cause, your doctor may review your medical history and examine your ears, head, and neck. Common tests …
Rickets
Diagnosis During the exam, a healthcare professional gently presses on the child’s bones to check for irregularities. Certain areas may receive closer attention. Babies with rickets may have softer skull bones and delays in the closure of the soft spots known as fontanels. An exaggerated bowing of the legs, more noticeable than the natural bowing seen in many toddlers, is …
Rheumatic Fever
Diagnosis Diagnosis of rheumatic fever is based on a combination of medical history, a physical exam and results from specific tests. There is no single test that can confirm the condition. Instead, healthcare professionals use multiple tools to look for signs of infection, inflammation and heart involvement. Tests often used to diagnose rheumatic fever include blood tests such as C-reactive …