Hemorrhoids Tests & Diagnosis Methods & Tools

Bleeding is a characteristic symptom of digestive diseases such as colorectal cancer, anal fissures, fistulae, perianal (i.e., around the anus) skin disease, infections, and tumors, and a doctor is required to thoroughly examine the anus and rectum to locate swollen blood vessels that indicate hemorrhoids. Physical examination of the rectum is performed with a gloved, lubricated finger to feel for the abnormalities. Scrapings or biopsy samples of perianal skin are collected and tested for skin disease if required.

External hemorrhoids appear like a bump or dark area surrounding the anus and a tender lump indicates that the hemorrhoid is thrombosed.

An anoscope is used to thoroughly examine and detect internal hemorrhoids. It is a three-inch long tapering, metal or clear plastic hollow tube with an approximate diameter of one inch at the viewing end. The anoscope is lubricated and inserted through the anus into the rectum and upon withdrawing, a clear view of any internal hemorrhoids can be seen. Anoscopy is also a good diagnostic procedure to detect anal fissures.

Indirect anoscopy makes use of a special mirror for visualizing a patient’s anus wherein the patient is seated and directed to strain on a toilet. A physician can detect exactly what is prolapsing with the help of indirect anoscopy; it could be a hemorrhoid, rectal lining, rectal polyp or the rectum itself (i.e., a condition called procidentia).

The exact causes of bleeding needs to be investigated if hemorrhoids are not found and this can be done with the help of sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy procedures. These procedures permit the doctor to examine about one-third or the entire colon(2).

Conditions & Diseases: Digestive System

Hemorrhoids

Medical Tests & Diagnosis Methods & Tools