How are Piles diagnosed?
A thorough evaluation and proper diagnosis by the doctor is important any time bleeding from the rectum or blood in the stool occurs. Bleeding is often due to haemorrhoids but may also be a symptom of other digestive diseases, including colorectal cancer. The doctor will examine the anus and rectum to look for swollen blood vessels that indicate haemorrhoids and will also perform an examination with a gloved, lubricated finger to feel for abnormalities. A hollow, lighted tube, known as a proctoscope, is also often used to look for internal haemorrhoids and examine the lining of the rectum. To rule out causes of gastrointestinal bleeding above the rectum, the doctor may examine the rectum and lower colon (sigmoid) with a rigid or flexible tube known as a sigmoidoscope.
