How does a doctor recognize hemorrhoids?
An experienced doctor recognizes hemorrhoids based on typical symptoms such as itching, burning, swelling, or bleeding and a feeling of pressure in the anal area. The diagnosis begins with a detailed conversation about the symptoms of hemorrhoids and a subsequent physical examination. External hemorrhoids are often visible to the naked eye, while internal hemorrhoids are detected through palpation or endoscopic examination.
Which examinations are necessary to diagnose hemorrhoids?
To make a clear diagnosis, several examinations may be performed. Read more about this in the blog post on the doctor's visit for hemorrhoids.
|
Examination |
Description |
|
Visual inspection |
External hemorrhoids or anal fissures can be recognized by simple visual inspection. |
|
Digital rectal examination (DRE) |
The doctor feels the rectum with a finger to detect lumps or thickening. |
|
Proctoscopy |
A short tube with a light source is inserted into the anus to make internal hemorrhoids visible. |
|
Rectoscopy |
A more extensive examination of the rectum with a longer instrument. |
|
Colonoscopy |
Performed when other diseases such as colon cancer need to be ruled out. |
Is a hemorrhoid examination painful?
Many patients worry that an examination might be uncomfortable or painful. Usually, the methods are well tolerated. The digital examination may cause a slight pressure sensation but is mostly painless. Proctoscopy or rectoscopy, thanks to the use of lubricant and gentle instruments, is only associated with brief discomfort. Read more about diagnosis and examinations in the blog post about the hemorrhoid doctor.
What happens during a proctoscopy?
Proctoscopy is one of the most important methods for diagnosing internal hemorrhoids. The doctor inserts a short tube about 8–12 cm long with a light source into the anus. This allows direct viewing of the hemorrhoids to assess their size and any possible inflammation. The procedure takes only a few minutes and is usually painless.
When should you see a doctor for hemorrhoids?
A doctor visit for hemorrhoids is advisable if:
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Blood in the stool or visible on the toilet paper.
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Itching or burning in the anal area lasts longer than two weeks.
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There is a feeling of pressure or a foreign body when sitting or after bowel movements.
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Pain or mucus discharge occurs.
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Self-treatment measures such as ointments or home remedies do not help.
Your doctor can also inform you about the treatment of hemorrhoids, as well as the causes of hemorrhoids, and advise you on preventive measures for hemorrhoids. Read more in the blog post about the hemorrhoid doctor.
Can a colonoscopy be necessary to diagnose hemorrhoids?
A colonoscopy is not necessarily required to diagnose hemorrhoids. However, it is recommended if:
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Bleeding of unclear origin occurs.
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There is suspicion of bowel diseases such as polyps or colon cancer.
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Symptoms do not subside despite treatment.
Which specialists are responsible for hemorrhoids?
The diagnosis and treatment of hemorrhoids can be carried out by various specialists:
|
Specialist |
Responsibility |
|
General practitioner |
First contact for symptoms, refers if necessary. |
|
Proctologist |
Specialist for diseases of the rectum and anus. |
|
Gastroenterologist |
Specialist for the gastrointestinal tract, performs colonoscopies. |
|
General surgeon |
Can surgically treat advanced hemorrhoids. |
Do internal and external hemorrhoids differ in diagnosis?
Yes, internal and external hemorrhoids are diagnosed differently:
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External Hemorrhoids are visible to the naked eye or palpable as small lumps at the anus.
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Internal hemorrhoids are deeper in the rectum and are usually diagnosed by proctoscopy or rectal palpation.
How can you recognize hemorrhoids yourself?
Some signs indicate the presence of hemorrhoids:
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Pain or feeling of pressure after bowel movements.
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Bright red blood traces on the toilet paper.
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Moist skin or moisture at the anus.
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Palpable lumps (with external hemorrhoids).
Anyone who is unsure or notices blood in the stool should have a medical examination.
Which diseases can be mistaken for hemorrhoids?
Some diseases cause similar symptoms like hemorrhoids, which is why an accurate medical diagnosis is important:
|
Disease |
Typical symptoms |
|
Anal Fissure |
Anal fissures manifest as severe pain and bleeding during bowel movements. |
|
Anal thrombosis |
Anal vein thromboses are hard, painful lumps at the anal margin. |
|
Anal eczema |
Anal eczema causes severe itching and skin redness. |
|
Irritable bowel syndrome |
Alternation between constipation and diarrhea. |
|
Colon cancer |
Blood in the stool, unexplained weight loss. |
Since blood in the stool can be a warning sign of serious illnesses, it should always be medically examined. The diagnosis of hemorrhoids is straightforward and usually done through a digital or proctoscopic examination. Anyone noticing typical symptoms such as itching, bleeding, or a feeling of pressure in the anal area should not hesitate to see a doctor. Especially with unclear bleeding, further examination such as a colonoscopy may be necessary to rule out serious diseases. Early diagnosis facilitates the treatment of hemorrhoids and significantly improves the chances of healing. If hemorrhoids remain untreated, surgical removal may be required in advanced stages of hemorrhoidal disease. More information can be found in the blog post about hemorrhoid surgery.
