How Ovarian Cysts Are Diagnosed

Physical Examinations Several physical examinations can help your healthcare provider make an accurate diagnosis. Anobstetrician-gynecologist (ob-gyn), physician’s assistant, or nurse practitioner may perform a pelvic exam. They will insert two fingers into the vagina and place pressure on your abdomen, feeling for abnormalities. 7postman / Getty Images This physical examination of the ovaries can detect ovarian cysts and other conditions, such asfibroid tumors. Laparoscopy Laparoscopyis a minimally invasive surgical procedure that is performed undergeneral anesthesia....

April 18, 2025 · 2 min · 224 words · Rebecca Pope

How Overactive Bladder Is Treated

Although others may continue to have symptoms, their severity and frequency can usually be alleviated with treatment. Lifestyle Lifestyle plays a major role in the treatment of OAB irrespective of the underlying cause. Fluid Restriction One of the simplest and most effective lifestyle changes is fluid restriction. These include: High sodium intakecan also increase the frequency and volume of daytime andnighttime urination. Bladder Retraining Bladder retraining is one of the first-line treatments of OAB....

April 18, 2025 · 2 min · 380 words · Kathleen Green

How Pancreatic Cancer Is Diagnosed

The diagnosis of pancreatic cancer relies on several tools. Blood tests can help identify the causes of jaundice and may detect tumor markers. Depending on the preliminary findings, a biopsy may or may not be needed before surgery. © Verywell, 2018 After diagnosis, staging is done to determine the most appropriate treatments for the disease. Screening may be recommended based on your risk factors. Your healthcare provider might also observe that you appear malnourished or that you seem to have lost weight....

April 18, 2025 · 3 min · 495 words · Amber Henderson

How Pancreatitis Is Linked to Diabetes

Additionally, people with diabetes are at higher risk for pancreatitis. Learn about the connection between these conditions and how you could reduce your risk for them. Insulinandglucagonare two hormones made in and released by the pancreas that regulate blood glucose levels. PixelsEffect/Getty Images Conversely, glucagon is sent to the liver to promote the breakdown ofglycogento glucose (called glycogenolysis). This helps raise blood glucose levels when they are too low, a condition known ashypoglycemia....

April 18, 2025 · 3 min · 555 words · Nathan Morrison

How Paramedics Choose Where to Take You

While that would seem reasonable, in practical utility it’s not always the case. How Decisions Are Made Where an ambulance crew ultimately takes you depends on the system used. The determination is sometimes made automatically the moment youcall 911. Zero Creatives / Getty Images In other cases, you may be routed by a coordinator tasked with distributing patients evenly between regional hospitals. Paramedics have a certain pull when making decisions....

April 18, 2025 · 1 min · 175 words · Marcus Benson

How Peptic Ulcer Disease Is Diagnosed

They may: There are a number of tests healthcare providers can order to diagnose peptic ulcer disease. The test will measure antibodies (infection-fighting cells) to H. pylori. Urea Breath Test The urea breath test is another way to test for anH. Verywell / Ellen Lindner The process for this test includes: If you haveH. If the carbon dioxide level is higher the second time, you have a positive breath test forH....

April 18, 2025 · 2 min · 262 words · Edward Miller

How Period vs. Early Pregnancy Cramps Feel

Period cramps and early pregnancy cramps can feel similar. Illustration by Tara Anand for Verywell Health Period Cramps vs. These cramps are because of uterine contractions that help shed the uterine lining. Illustration by Tara Anand for Verywell Health These cramps are generally mild and short-lived, lasting two to three days. It is often described as tingling, pulling, or a dull ache rather than strong, persistent pain. Unlike period cramps, early pregnancy cramps should not be accompanied by heavy bleeding....

April 18, 2025 · 2 min · 362 words · Beth Young

How Pet Dander Affects Your Asthma

These may be present whether an animal is in the same room with you or not. What Are Sources of Pet Dander? Rather, animal dander contains endotoxins, which are chemicals that induce a harmful physical reaction. Brianna Gilmartin / Verywell These stimulate immune cells and proteins, specifically immunoglobulin E (IgE). If you have asthma, you are prone to episodes ofbronchoconstrictionorbronchospasmdue to a variety of triggers. You may notice symptoms immediately after exposure or you may begin to develop the effects hours afterward....

April 18, 2025 · 2 min · 288 words · Thomas Kim

How Peyronie's Disease Is Diagnosed

However, for determine the extent of the disease, a physical examination is often needed. Other times, this may require an examination of the erect penis and/or diagnostic imaging. Therefore, the more prepared you are, the easier it will be. Verywell / Julie Bang Get our printable guide for your next doctor’s appointment to help you ask the right questions. Not all cases of Peyronie’s disease need treatment. However, sometimes early treatment of Peyronie’s disease can help improve long-term function....

April 18, 2025 · 2 min · 373 words · Jennifer Sanders MD

How Phobia Is Diagnosed

Specific phobias typically start in late childhood or early adolescence.It is one of the most common types ofanxiety disorders. An estimated 12.5% of adults in the United States have a specific phobia in their lives. This article covers specific phobia tests and screenings that providers use to diagnose the condition. martin-dm / Getty Images They can refer you to a licensed mental health professional who can provide an official diagnosis and offer treatment....

April 18, 2025 · 3 min · 495 words · Jordan Benson

How Physical Therapists Use TheraBands for Patients

TheraBand Loops are thick elastic bands that provide a way to strengthenmusclesat home. Benefits There are some benefits to using resistance bands to do your home exercise program. Limitations There are some limitations to using resistance bands for your exercises. Tetra Images / Brand X Pictures / Getty Images How Much Resistance Is Your Theraband Providing? The TheraBand Loop system provides different levels of resistance to allow you to progress as you gain strength....

April 18, 2025 · 1 min · 123 words · Casey Diaz

How Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis) Is Treated

Mild conjunctivitis, while uncomfortable, may resolve on its own. This article discusses treatments for pink eye. Whatever the underlying cause, mild cases may not require treatment. Verywell / Emily Roberts While you wait, home remedies can be used to ease discomfort. They can also be used in tandem with medications prescribed for other forms of pink eye. Many people find relief with the use of either a cool or warmcompress....

April 18, 2025 · 3 min · 452 words · Nicholas Rogers

How Pneumonia Is Diagnosed

Pneumoniaaffects millions of people every year. Physical Examination Fever, cough, and shortness of breath could be symptoms ofpneumonia. Your healthcare provider with start an evaluation by checking your vital signs and taking a detailed medical history. © Verywell, 2018 Low levels of oxygen are concerning and may mean that you better be put on oxygen. Using a stethoscope, a practitioner will listen to your lungs. They are listening to crackling sounds orwheezing....

April 18, 2025 · 4 min · 777 words · Jasmine Hahn