Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy is an examination of your large bowel to identify or rule out further treatmentA colonoscopy is an effective test to diagnose a range of conditions like Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, diverticular disease and bowel cancer. If you have noticed changes to your bowel habits, abdominal pain or blood in your stools, you should speak to a specialist for a prompt diagnosis that will put your mind at ease.
You may be advised to have a colonoscopy if you have:
- Bleeding from your anus
- Pain in the lower abdomen (tummy)
- Persistent diarrhoea
- Changes to your bowel habits
- A family history of bowel cancer
- Been placed on a bowel cancer screening pathway
- An existing condition that needs reviewing such as Crohn’s disease or colitis
Prompt diagnosis in a reassuring environment
Your Consultant may need to perform a colonoscopy to get a clear view of the lining of your colon and help them to understand the cause of your symptoms. During the examination, your Consultant can also remove simple polyps (tissue growth) and may take samples or photographs for further examination to diagnose your condition.
Your Consultant will discuss your results with you and can help you arrange any additional treatment that might be needed.
Prices & payment
The above are guide prices only.
Consultants
FAQs
What is involved in a colonoscopy?
Your Consultant uses a long flexible tube (colonoscope) with a small light and camera to get a clear view of the lining of the bowel. The colonoscope is inserted into your bowel to help your Consultant or specialist nurse identify any parts of the bowel that may need further investigation. They may take small samples or photographs and remove simple polyps.
Does it hurt?
A colonoscopy does not hurt, although you may feel some discomfort when the colonoscope is inserted. It’s important to try and relax to minimise discomfort and allow your Consultant to get a clear view of the lining of your colon.
What if my test results show a problem?
Following the procedure, your Consultant will inform you of any biopsies or photographs taken for further examination and will contact you to arrange a follow-up consultation.
Should further treatment be required, we can give you all the information you need and help arrange additional procedures.
- Make a general enquiry
- Appointment enquiry
Our team are on hand to help answer any queries you might have about coming to KIMS Hospital or Sevenoaks Medical Centre. You can use the form below and one of our team will be in touch. Alternatively to speak to a member of our team, please call 01622 237 727.
Enquiry hours are Mon-Thurs 8am-8pm, Fri 8am-6pm and Saturday 8am-4pm.
If you would like to book an appointment, you can use the form below and one of our team will be in touch.
Alternatively to speak to a member of our friendly team, please call 01622 237 500 between Mon-Thurs 8am-8pm, Fri 8am-6pm and Saturday 8am-4pm.
Please be aware, if you are requesting a diagnostic scan such as an MRI, or CT, you must have a referral from a relevant clinician or Allied Health professional such as a physiotherapist.