Test or procedure
Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy uses a thin, flexible camera to check the whole of your large bowel (colon) and rectum. It helps find the cause of bleeding, loose motions or pain, and small polyps can often be removed during the same test.
Also called: colonoscopy test, bowel camera test, large intestine scope
What it is
A colonoscope is a long, thin, flexible tube with a light and a camera at its tip. It is passed gently through the back passage and guided around the large bowel, while air or carbon dioxide opens the bowel so the lining can be seen clearly. Dr. Tumma can look for inflammation, ulcers, bleeding points, polyps and growths, take small tissue samples (biopsies), and remove most polyps during the same test. The bowel must be completely clean for the test to be accurate, which is why the preparation matters so much.
Why it is done
- Blood in the stools or bleeding from the back passage
- A lasting change in bowel habit, such as loose motions or constipation for several weeks
- Unexplained anaemia, weight loss or tummy pain
- Checking for or following up polyps, colitis or Crohn’s disease
- Screening when there is a family history of bowel cancer, or as advised with age
- An abnormal scan or stool test that needs a closer look
Before: how to prepare
- Eat a light, low-fibre diet for 2–3 days before, as explained in the preparation guide.
- The day before, switch to clear liquids and take the bowel-cleansing drink exactly as instructed. Expect frequent loose motions; stay close to a toilet.
- Tell us in advance if you take blood thinners, aspirin, diabetes medicines or iron tablets. Do not stop any medicine on your own; we will tell you what to change and when.
- Keep drinking plenty of clear fluids during the preparation so you do not get dehydrated.
- Bring a list of all your medicines and any previous colonoscopy or biopsy reports.
- Come with an adult who can take you home, because you will have sedation.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothes and leave jewellery and valuables at home.
On the day
Check-in
The team checks that your preparation went well, reviews your medicines and asks you to sign a consent form.
Getting ready
You change into a gown and a small needle is placed in a vein for the sedation.
The test
You lie on your left side and the scope is guided gently around the large bowel. You may feel some pressure or cramping; changing position can help.
Biopsies or polyp removal
If needed, small samples are taken or polyps are removed with a tiny snare. You do not feel this.
Recovery
You rest until the sedation wears off, usually about an hour, and the doctor explains the findings to you and your family.
After
- Some bloating and wind are normal for a few hours; walking around and passing wind helps.
- You can usually eat normally by the evening. Start with something light.
- Do not drive, ride a two-wheeler, operate machinery or sign important documents for the rest of the day.
- A small streak of blood in the first motion can happen after a biopsy or polyp removal.
- Call us or go to the nearest emergency if you have heavy bleeding, severe or worsening tummy pain, a swollen, hard tummy, fever or vomiting.
Results. Dr. Tumma explains what she saw once you are awake and gives you a written report. Biopsies and polyps go to a lab and results usually take a few days; they also help decide when, or whether, you need another colonoscopy.
Risks, explained honestly
Common and mild
- Tiredness and loose motions from the bowel preparation
- Bloating and cramping for a few hours after the test
- Drowsiness from the sedation for the rest of the day
Rare but serious
- Bleeding, mostly after polyp removal, which can sometimes appear a few days later
- A tear (perforation) in the bowel wall, which is rare but serious and may need surgery
- A reaction to the sedation medicine or breathing problems, which the team watches for closely
- A small polyp or problem can occasionally be missed, especially if the bowel is not fully clean
Where it is done
Available at Sun Care and at Kamineni Hospitals. Dr. Tejaswini will advise which suits you, for example when sedation or a hospital stay is needed.
Fees are shared when you book.
Questions patients ask
Used for
Other tests
- Upper GI endoscopy10 min
- FibroScan10 min
- ERCP30–60 min
- Endoscopic ultrasound20–45 min
- PolypectomyDuring colonoscopy
- Sigmoidoscopy10–15 min
- Variceal banding & glue15–30 min
Book a 15‑minute visit
At the clinic or online, Monday to Saturday. Pick a time and the front desk will confirm.
This page is general information reviewed by Dr. Tejaswini Tumma. It does not replace a consultation.