There’s no way to diagnose PCS directly because no specific test can confirm a concussion. Instead, a healthcare provider diagnoses a concussion — and later, PCS — based on their clinical judgment and a person’s symptoms. They’ll do that using several tools and methods, including: A physical and neurological (nervous system function) exam. Talking to you about the injury that caused …
Peritonitis
Your healthcare provider will begin by asking about your medical history and current conditions. They will physically examine your abdomen and check to see if it is swollen, sensitive to the touch or rigid. If it is, they will follow up with a blood test to check for evidence of inflammation or infection (high white blood cell count). They may also take …
Peripheral Neuropathy
Diagnosing peripheral neuropathy usually involves a combination of methods. These include: Symptoms and medical history. Your healthcare provider will likely ask questions about your medical history and any recent symptoms or changes you’ve noticed. They may also ask about other medical conditions and factors, such as type 2 diabetes, and your nutrition, habits and lifestyle. Physical and neurological exams. These involve …
Peripheral Nerve Tumors
To diagnose a peripheral nerve tumor, your health care provider will ask about your symptoms and medical history. You may undergo a general physical exam and a neurological exam. Several tests may help pinpoint the cause of your symptoms. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This scan uses a magnet and radio waves to produce a detailed 3D view of nerves and tissue. …
Peripheral Nerve Injuries
To diagnose peripheral nerve injuries, your healthcare professional reviews your medical history. You’re asked about any accidents or previous surgeries you’ve had and about your symptoms. Your healthcare professional also conducts a physical and neurological exam. If there are symptoms of a nerve injury, you may need diagnostic tests, which may include: Electromyography (EMG). In an EMG, a thin-needle electrode inserted …
Perimenopause
A healthcare provider may determine that you’re transitioning to menopause based on a physical exam and your symptoms, age and medical history. But you don’t always need to see a healthcare provider for an official diagnosis. Many people notice the changes in their bodies but don’t have severe symptoms. Other people end up contacting their healthcare provider because symptoms become …
Pemphigus
Your healthcare provider will diagnose pemphigus after performing a physical exam, learning more about your medical history and offering tests that include: Biopsy: They’ll take a small sample of your skin’s tissue and examine it under a microscope. Blood tests: They’ll examine a sample of your blood to look for antibodies that cause the condition.
Pelvic Organ Prolapse
During your appointment, your healthcare provider will review your symptoms and perform a pelvic exam. During the exam, your provider may ask you to cough so that they can see the full extent of your prolapse when you’re straining and when you’re relaxed. They may examine you while you’re lying down and while you’re standing. Often, a pelvic exam is all …
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
If you feel symptoms of PID, see your healthcare provider right away. The sooner you get care, the greater your chances of successful treatment. There isn’t one specific test for PID. Usually, your healthcare provider can diagnose PID through: Asking about your medical history, including your general health, sexual activity and symptoms. A pelvic exam to examine your reproductive organs and feel …