They are usually diagnosed through a combination of clinical history and physical examination, including visual inspection and digital rectal examination. In some cases, an anoscopy or sigmoidoscopy may be performed to assess internal haemorrhoids and rule out other conditions. It is important to exclude more serious causes of rectal bleeding such as colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, or anal fissures before confirming a diagnosis of haemorrhoids.
Treatment depends on severity and includes conservative measures such as dietary fibre supplementation, increased fluid intake, sitz baths, and topical medications for symptom relief. For persistent or severe cases, procedural interventions like rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy, haemorrhoidal artery ligation, laser ablation or surgical haemorrhoidectomy may be necessary. Lifestyle modifications, including avoiding straining during bowel movements and maintaining healthy bowel habits, are also crucial for prevention and long-term management.
One of our team of surgeons would be happy to meet with you if you would like to know more about haemorrhoids, or to discuss your symptoms.
Contact a member of the team to arrange a private appointment