Diagnosing Hemorrhoids (Piles)
Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, are swollen and inflamed veins located around the anus or in the lower rectum. There are two types of hemorrhoids:
- External hemorrhoids: These form under the skin around the anus.
- Internal hemorrhoids: These form in the lining of the anus and lower rectum.
Hemorrhoids can cause symptoms such as painless bleeding, discomfort or soreness in the anal area, itching or irritation, lumps and swelling in the anal region, and sometimes incontinence of feces. While some people may not notice they have hemorrhoids, others may experience mild symptoms. Rarely, complications such as anemia due to blood loss or thrombosed hemorrhoids (blood clot inside the hemorrhoid can occur.
To diagnose hemorrhoids, doctors may use various examinations, screening tests, and procedures. These help confirm a diagnosis and determine the type, severity, or stage of the hemorrhoids. Here are the details:
- Medical history review: Doctors will ask about your symptoms and medical history to gather important information that can aid in the diagnosis.
- Physical examination: A visual examination of the anus may be enough to diagnose external hemorrhoids. Doctors will check for any abnormalities, such as redness around the hemorrhoid. For internal hemorrhoids, a digital rectal exam is performed. In this exam, a gloved and lubricated finger is inserted into the rectum to check for any abnormalities.
- Additional tests: Depending on the situation and risk factors for gastrointestinal disease, doctors may order further tests to confirm the diagnosis and determine the type, severity, or stage of the hemorrhoids. These tests include:
- Anoscopy: This test involves using a device called an anoscope to examine the inside of the anus.
- Sigmoidoscopy: It examines the last 2 feet (50 centimeters) of your colon.
- Colonoscopy: It explores the entire colon. In these tests, a small fiber-optic camera is used to get a clear view of the inside of your rectum and colon.
- Blood tests: A white blood cell count test may be done if an infection is suspected. A low white blood cell count can indicate an infection.
These examinations, screening tests, and procedures help identify factors or indicators of the type, severity, or stage of hemorrhoids by providing visual information about the condition of the anus, rectum, or colon.
Specialists involved in diagnosing hemorrhoids may include primary care doctors, gastroenterologists (specialists in digestive system disorders), or other healthcare providers with expertise in this area.
It's important to note that while these procedures can help diagnose hemorrhoids and provide valuable information about their type and severity, it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.