The diagnosis of hemorrhoids follows an evaluation of the patient's medical history and a physical examination by a primary care physician or gastroenterologist. Diagnostic tests may also be used. The patient is generally asked about bowel habits, including frequency and any recent changes in patterns, and certain symptoms such as pain, bleeding or itching. The physical examination typically involves a digital rectal exam, in which the physician inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to feel for abnormalities. It is often easy to diagnose hemorrhoids after visually examining the anus and rectum. To do this, the physician may use a variety of tools, including:

• Anoscope. A short, hollow tube used to examine the last few inches of the rectum.
  
  
• Proctoscope. A longer tube used to examine the entire rectum. This may be more useful for diagnosing internal hemorrhoids.
  
  
• Sigmoidoscope. An even longer, flexible, lighted tube used to examine deeper into the sigmoid colon (the lower part of the large intestine just above the rectum). This is frequently used to determine if a more serious condition, such as a tumor, exists.