Diagnosis To diagnose pseudotumor cerebri, a health care provider reviews symptoms and medical history, performs a physical examination and recommends specific tests. Eye exams are a key part of diagnosis. An ophthalmologist looks for swelling of the optic nerve and may perform a visual field test to find any blind spots beyond the normal ones. Imaging such as optical coherence …
Idiopathic Hypersomnia
Diagnosis To diagnose idiopathic hypersomnia, a healthcare professional reviews your symptoms, medical history and performs a physical exam. Several tests may be used to confirm the condition or rule out other causes of excessive daytime sleepiness.People diagnosed with idiopathic hypersomnia typically experience persistent sleepiness every day for at least three months. Tools and tests that may help include: Epworth Sleepiness …
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Diagnosis Diagnosing irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) involves reviewing medical history, completing a physical exam and ruling out other conditions such as celiac disease or inflammatory bowel disease. Once other causes are excluded, healthcare professionals may use diagnostic guidelines such as the Rome criteria, which look for weekly belly pain over the last three months along with changes in stool frequency, …
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Diagnosis Inflammatory bowel disease is diagnosed through a combination of lab tests, endoscopic procedures, and imaging studies. These tests help confirm inflammation, identify its location, and rule out other digestive disorders. Lab tests may include: Blood tests to check for infection, anemia, inflammation levels, liver function and immunity against infections Stool studies to detect blood, harmful bacteria, parasites or markers …
Low Blood Pressure
Diagnosis of Low Blood Pressure To determine if you have low blood pressure (hypotension), your healthcare professional will perform a physical exam, ask about your medical history, and measure your blood pressure. You can also monitor your blood pressure at home with a validated device. Home monitoring helps detect issues earlier. Ask your healthcare team to: Recommend a suitable blood …
Hypospadias
Diagnosis A pediatrician can usually diagnose hypospadias during a physical exam shortly after birth. The condition is identified when the opening of the urethra is not located at the tip of the penis. If the diagnosis is confirmed, your child will likely be referred to a pediatric urologist — a specialist in urinary and genital conditions in children — for …
Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome
Diagnosis To diagnose hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS), a healthcare professional examines the baby and listens for a heart murmur, which is caused by the rushing flow of blood through the heart. Early detection is crucial, as HLHS is a serious congenital heart defect that requires immediate medical attention after birth. Tests Several tests may be used to identify HLHS …
Hypopituitarism
Diagnosis To diagnose hypopituitarism, several tests are used to check hormone levels and identify the cause of pituitary gland dysfunction. These tests help determine which hormones are affected and guide the most effective treatment plan. Blood tests measure the levels of hormones made in the pituitary gland and in the glands that the pituitary controls, such as the thyroid gland. …
Hypoparathyroidism
Diagnosis To diagnose hypoparathyroidism, your healthcare professional will begin by reviewing your medical history and performing a physical examination. Blood and urine tests are often recommended to confirm the diagnosis and assess how well your body regulates calcium and phosphorus. Blood tests may show the following results that suggest hypoparathyroidism: Low calcium levels in the blood Low parathyroid hormone levels …
Hyponatremia
Diagnosis Low sodium levels, also known as hyponatremia, can have many possible causes. To determine the reason, your healthcare professional will begin by reviewing your medical history and performing a physical examination. This may include questions about your current medications, diet, and fluid intake. Because the symptoms of hyponatremia can resemble those of other conditions, it cannot be diagnosed through …