Making the Diagnosis
No examination for hemorrhoids is complete without a digital rectal examination
- the doctor will insert a gloved finger into the rectum to examine the
hemorrhoids. This helps to determine if the hemorrhoid is external or internal,
and to assess the grade of internal hemorrhoids. An instrument called an anoscope
or a proctoscope lets the doctor see internal hemorrhoids. The examination
should also include questions about lifestyle. The doctor will probably try
to isolate risk factors and suggest changes.