Hypercalcemia is a fairly common finding on routine blood tests such as a comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) or basic metabolic panel (BMP), which include a calcium blood test. These tests allow healthcare providers to detect abnormally high calcium levels early. The following blood calcium levels indicate different levels of diagnosis and severity of hypercalcemia: Mild hypercalcemia: 10.5 to 11.9 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). Moderate …
Hydronephrosis
Getting a diagnosis from your healthcare provider quickly is important because hydronephrosis can cause long-term kidney damage. Your provider will diagnose hydronephrosis with: Physical examination: Your provider will ask you about any symptoms you’re having and examine the area near your kidneys and bladder for tenderness or swelling. They may ask about your medical history and your family’s medical history. …
Hydrocephalus
Hydrocephalus is diagnosed through a neurological evaluation. Your healthcare provider may use brain imaging techniques such as ultrasounds, computer tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Other tests are often performed in adults to diagnose the condition. These tests may include: Spinal tap (lumbar puncture). Intracranial pressure monitoring (ICP), which uses a small pressure monitor inserted into your brain to measure pressure. Fundoscopic …
Hydrocele
A healthcare provider can diagnose a hydrocele in a child or adult. They’ll ask questions about your symptoms and perform a physical examination. During the physical exam, the provider may apply pressure to the groin area or ask you to cough to see how the swelling changes. They may shine a light through your scrotum to highlight any abdominal fluid in …
Progeria
Your child’s healthcare provider may be able to diagnose your child’s condition based on their physical appearance. They’ll perform a physical exam and ask about your child’s symptoms. If they suspect progeria, they can use genetic testing to confirm the diagnosis. The test requires taking a blood sample from your child.
Kyphosis
Among children, you (your child’s caregiver) or a school physician (nurse) may notice symptoms of kyphosis, especially at school during a scoliosis screening. Your child’s school may recommend your child visit a primary care physician for an exam to confirm a diagnosis. At any age, your healthcare provider will diagnose kyphosis after a physical exam. During the physical, your provider will …
HPV Infection
Your doctor might be able to diagnose human papillomavirus (HPV) infection by looking at your warts. If genital warts aren’t visible, you’ll need one or more of the following tests: Vinegar (acetic acid) solution test. A vinegar solution applied to HPV-infected genital areas turns them white. This may help in identifying difficult-to-see flat lesions. Pap test. Your doctor collects a sample of cells …
Hot Flashes
Your doctor can usually diagnose hot flashes based on a description of your symptoms. Your doctor might suggest blood tests to check whether you’re in menopausal transition.
Horner Syndrome
Healthcare providers usually diagnose Horner syndrome with a physical exam. Determining the underlying cause may be complex, as it can occur due to many medical conditions. In addition, other conditions can cause similar symptoms. A healthcare provider will ask detailed questions about your symptoms and medical history. They’ll ask about past injuries, illnesses and surgeries. They’ll also perform a physical …
Stye (Sty)
Some styes are more stubborn and require a visit to a healthcare provider. If your vision seems to be affected or if your stye seems to be getting worse instead of better, contact a provider. During your appointment, your provider will examine your eyelid and ask about any additional symptoms you’re having. They’ll be able to diagnose a stye based on this eye …