Hemorrhoids: Diagnosis and Tests

How are hemorrhoids diagnosed?

A diagnosis of a hemorrhoidal problem begins with a visit to your doctor. The doctor will ask about your symptoms and perform a physical examination of the anal area.

During an anal examination, the doctor will:

• Look at skin around the anus;
• Do a digital rectal examination, in which a gloved, lubricated finger is gently inserted into the anus; and
• Check the inside of the anal canal—where the internal hemorrhoids are located—with a short lighted probe called an anoscope.

In some cases you may need another, more extensive exam, like a colonoscopy, to make sure your symptoms are not due to any other disease in your colon or rectum.