What tests are needed for hemorrhoid examination

Hemorrhoid examination usually requires three basic examinations: visual examination of the anus, digital rectal examination, and colonoscopy. If necessary, colonoscopy may also be combined. These tests can help doctors clarify the type, location, and severity of hemorrhoids, and rule out other intestinal diseases.

Anal visual examination is the first step of examination, and doctors will observe whether there are external hemorrhoids, prolapsed internal hemorrhoids, skin redness, erosion, or secretions around the anus. Digital rectal examination involves touching the lower part of the rectum and anal canal with fingers to detect the location, size, and texture of internal hemorrhoids, and to preliminarily rule out rectal tumors, polyps, or anal fistulas. Anoscopy is a key method for diagnosing hemorrhoids, which directly observes the mucosa of the anal canal and lower rectum through an anal dilator, clearly displaying the morphology of internal hemorrhoids and mixed hemorrhoids, as well as the presence of bleeding points or mucosal congestion. If the patient has rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits, or is over 40 years old, the doctor will recommend additional colonoscopy to rule out lesions such as colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, or polyps. In rare cases, a blood routine examination may be necessary to assess the degree of anemia caused by long-term hemorrhoid bleeding. These examinations are usually completed in the outpatient department without special preparation, but bowel cleansing is required according to medical advice before colonoscopy.

It is recommended to seek timely medical attention from a proctology department when experiencing discomfort in the anus, rectal bleeding, or tumor prolapse. Daily attention should be paid to increasing dietary fiber intake, drinking more water, avoiding prolonged sitting and squatting, and developing a habit of regular bowel movements to reduce the occurrence and aggravation of hemorrhoids. Before the examination, the doctor should be truthfully informed of their medical history and medication use, especially anticoagulant drugs, so that the doctor can assess the risks of the examination.