A visual inspection of the anus is usually enough to diagnose hemorrhoids, especially external hemorrhoids.
Digital Rectal Examination
- The doctor may do a digital rectal examination to check for any abnormalities inside the anus.
- In this examination, the doctor will gently and skillfully insert a gloved & lubricated finger inside the rectum to check if anything is wrong.
- This is useful for diagnosing smaller internal hemorrhoids.
Sigmoidoscopy
- A sigmoidoscopy may be done to get a clear view of the anal and rectal canal.
- In this, a small fiber optic camera fitted to a small tube (sigmoidoscope) is gently and skillfully inserted inside the rectum and lower colon.
- This helps the doctor to have a very close look at the hemorrhoid as well as take real-life pictures with the camera.
Barium X-Ray
- A barium x-ray can also be useful to see the outline of the colon and rectum.
- Here a barium enema is given and then x-rays are taken of the colon and rectum region.
