How does a doctor diagnose hemroids (hemorrhoids)?
A doctor must look at the areas where hemorrhoids occur. This includes examining your anus and rectum to spot any swollen blood vessels. A doctor may also perform a rectal exam by inserting a gloved, lubricated finger. While somewhat embarrassing and painful if hemorrhoids are present, you will be asked to remove your clothes from the waist down and lie on one side while the doctor probes these areas. However, it is necessary in order for the doctor to properly diagnose your condition. Sometimes, an even closer look is required. In this case, a doctor will use an anoscope, which is a hollow, lighted tube that can provide greater detail of any internal hemorrhoids that are present. A proctoscope may be used to examine the entire rectum area. If a doctor wants to narrow the diagnosis to just hemorrhoids, either a sigmoidoscopy may be done to look at both the rectum and the lower colon or a colonoscopy to see the entire colon. Both of these procedures use a device similar to an anoscope w
