by Elizabeth Radisson

If you have determined that you have hemorrhoids due to bleeding and discomfort, you should plan to see a doctor. Knowing what to expect when you see your doctor can be comforting and will prepare you to get help for your hemorrhoids.

It is important when being treated for hemorrhoids to get a proper diagnosis. You should be examined by a doctor, even if it is not the first time you get hemorrhoids. Other digestive diseases may be part of the problem that you are experiencing and may be more serious than hemorrhoids. Bleeding may even be a result of cancer, so it is important to be checked with every occurrence.

A doctor will first examine the rectum and the anus. Swollen blood vessels in these areas will be looked for as a sign of hemorrhoids. The doctor will look for lumps on the skin near the anus and may have to check internally if there are no exterior lumps showing. A doctor will typically use a lubricated glove to feel for lumps and abnormalities associated with hemorrhoids.

A proctoscope is one tool a doctor may use to examine for hemorrhoids. This lit hollow tube allows the doctor to more easily see the problem area when the hemorrhoid is internal. A doctor can safely make a diagnosis of hemorrhoids if there are any attachments or abnormalities to the lining of the rectum.

In some cases, a doctor will not be able to rule out other digestive diseases and will have the option of performing a sigmoidoscopy or a colonoscopy. This involves a tube similar to the proctoscope that can help in examining the rectum and colon areas to detect the cause of bleeding and discomfort.

If there are signs you may have hemorrhoids, get an examination by your doctor to confirm your suspicions. Hemorrhoids may cause bleeding and discomfort. Knowing what the problem is will allow you to have the hemorrhoids treated and minimize their effect on your daily life.

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