hemorrhoids or not?

[boat]

I have a history of hemorrhoids, and rightfully so.  My grandfather and my mother were both plagued with them.
      I had my first colonoscopy at the age of 37 (I am now 51). A t that time I was experiencing stomach problems and a barium enema showed a growth.  It was a tiny polyp, approximately 3 mm., that was obliterated when removed.  My doctor recommended a follow up colonoscopy in 2 years.  This was done with negative results. A third colonoscopy was done a little over 3 years ago with the same results, negative.  The recommendation was a follow-up colonoscopy in 7 years.
      Recently I have been experiencing a lot of discomfort in my anal area, burning, itching and bleeding.  The bleeding is unusual in that it appears once every 2-3 weeks and drips onto the stool and is not mixed with it. I eat a very high fiber diet, lots of salads, vegetables and popcorn.  This in turn results in 2-3 bowel movements a day. This bleeding episode usually follows a very busy bathroom day.
     I  had a digital rectal exam last month and nothing was found.
     What are your thoughts?  

[Nanny]

This bleeding might be the result of some internal hemorrhoids that have become irritated.  I went to my specialist with the same problem, and and this is what was discovererd.

[Nanny]

Sorry, I inadvertently clicked the wrong button before finishing my post.  You might consult your doctor, as he may want to do another colonoscopy just to check.  It is recommended for people our age (same as you) anyhow.

I also wanted to say that I can't eat popcorn on a regular basis, or hardly at all, as this does seem to irritate the hemorrhoids more.  Good luck.