Anoscopy

The internal hemorrhoid anoscopy test allows your health care professional to take a closer look at the anus, anal canal, and the lower rectum for abdominal growths (such as tumors or polyps), inflammation, bleeding, and other conditions. This test is usually performed following a digital rectal examination in which the doctor inserts a lubricated gloved finger to check for hemorrhoids and other abnormalities in the rectal area.

To perform a internal hemorrhoid anoscopy, the doctor will use an anoscope, which is a short, rigid, hollow tube that may contain a light source. The anoscope may be metal or plastic. It enlarges the rectum and allows your health care provider to look at the last two inches of the colon, otherwise known as the anal canal. A specimen for biopsy can also be taken during the anoscopy. As the scope is carefully removed, the lining of the anal canal can be carefully inspected.

Hemorrhoid anoscopy can usually be performed at any time because an empty colon is not required. After your health care professional has performed the anoscopy, he or she can determine whether more comprehensive testing is required. If your doctor is satisfied that hemorrhoids are the cause of your symptoms, several courses of action may be prescribed.

Preparing for the Anoscopy

Although it is not necessary to take a laxative or an enema before this procedure, you may feel better if you defecate to clear the rectum of stool before the anoscopy.

Anoscopy and Hemorrhoids

There is little pain or discomfort associated with anoscopy, however hemorrhoid sufferers will likely feel an increase of pain and itching due to the irritation of the sensitive area.

The Risks of Hemorrhoid Anoscopy

There are minimal risks associated with a simple anoscopy. There is a limited risk of mild pain and bleeding, especially if hemorrhoids are present.

Interpreting the Results of Hemorrhoid Anoscopy

A normal anoscopy means that the anal canal appeared normal in size, color, and muscle tone. If hemorrhoids, polyps, or other abnormal tissues are present, your health care provider will recommend an appropriate course of treatment.

When To Call A Doctor

Hemorrhoids can generally be treated at home with dietary changes, conventional hemorrhoidal preparations, or herbal treatments. However, there are instances when your health care provider should examine the affected area. Colon cancer, rectal cancer, and many other conditions have some of the same symptoms of hemorrhoids. For this reason, you should call your doctor if you experience any of the following:

• Rectal bleeding: Although rectal bleeding is common with both internal and external thrombosed hemorrhoids, it is also a symptom of cancer, and other diseases. Rectal bleeding that is not associated with the strain of passing a bowel movement is of particular concern.
• Narrow stools: Stools that have become more narrow than usual (may be no wider than a pencil) could indicate a blockage in the digestive system.
• Inability to pass stools or severe diarrhea with bloating
• Fever that accompanies the hemorrhoidal symptoms
• Lumps: An external lump in the anal opening is a classical sign of a thrombosed hemorrhoid. However, if this lump or bulge is not tender and it does not go away, it should be examined by a health care professional.

Exams and Tests

For patients younger than 50, a digital rectal exam and an hemorrhoid anoscopy are the only tests your doctor will need for initial evaluation, if hemorrhoids are obviously present. For patients over 40 who have a family history of colon cancer, a flexible sigmoidoscopy may be used to provide a clear diagnosis.