What to Expect At the Doctor's Office?

The office visit consists of an evaluation to both determine the severity of hemorrhoids and to rule out the possibility of some other, more serious problem, such as cancer of the colon or rectum. This evaluation includes:

HISTORY
Medical history is important information you provide to the physician about your condition. Your doctor will have to rely upon your statements. Provide detailed information to your physician regarding pain, bleeding and protrusion of tissue from the anus.

EXAMINATION
An examination is performed when you are on your side or crouching down on a specially constructed table. A visual examination will be followed by a well-lubricated, gloved finger examination of the anus to check any tender areas or swelling. Proctoscopic exam (Anoscopic) is done by inserting a small lighted tube into the anus and visually inspecting the condition of your hemorrhoids.

ADDITIONAL TESTS
To rule out other causes of rectal bleeding your doctor may decide to perform one or more of the following tests. These additional tests require specific preparation to clean your bowel for examination. Signioidoscopy is performed with a lighted tube about 10 inches long to check the rectum and part of the colon beyond the reach of the proctoscope. A flexible sigmoidoscope can check up to 25 inches. More than half of all colon pathologies occur in this area of the colon. It does cause some discomfort, but can be safely performed at the doctor's office. Colonoscopy is performed to check the entire colon with a long flexible lighted tube. It is usually done in an out-patient setting when the patient is sedated. Barium enema (lower CI series) is done at the radiologist's office by giving a liquid barium enema and taking Xrays of the colon.