Colonoscopy in West Bengal
A diagnostic and therapeutic procedure where a flexible camera is passed through the rectum to examine the entire colon. Used for colorectal cancer screening, p…
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What is Colonoscopy?
A diagnostic and therapeutic procedure where a flexible camera is passed through the rectum to examine the entire colon. Used for colorectal cancer screening, polyp removal, diagnosis of IBD, and investigation of bleeding.
30-60 minutes
Rest for 2-4 hours; avoid driving for 24 hours; mild bloating is normal; resume normal diet same day
₹3,000 - ₹8,000
IV sedation
99%
Outpatient
Why Colonoscopy Is Needed
Colonoscopy is recommended for routine colorectal cancer screening starting at a certain age, or earlier for those with a family history of colon cancer or polyps. It's also used to investigate unexplained rectal bleeding, chronic diarrhea or constipation, iron-deficiency anemia, or unexplained abdominal pain, and to remove precancerous polyps before they turn into cancer.
Signs You May Need Colonoscopy
Blood in the stool, a persistent change in bowel habits, unexplained abdominal pain, or unexplained weight loss are common symptoms that prompt a doctor to recommend colonoscopy. Even without symptoms, colonoscopy is recommended as routine screening because colorectal cancer can develop silently from polyps over several years.
Types of Colonoscopy
A standard diagnostic colonoscopy examines the entire colon for abnormalities, while a therapeutic colonoscopy allows the doctor to remove polyps, take biopsies, or control bleeding in the same session. A sigmoidoscopy, examining only the lower part of the colon, is sometimes used as a quicker alternative when full colon examination isn't required.
Hospitals offering Colonoscopy (0)
No hospitals listed yet for this procedure in West Bengal — check back soon or browse all hospitals.
Specialists offering Colonoscopy (0)
No specialists listed yet for this procedure in West Bengal.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is colonoscopy painful?
You're given IV sedation so you're unaware or drowsy during the procedure, and most people feel little to no discomfort, with only mild bloating afterward.
How should I prepare for a colonoscopy?
You'll need to follow a special bowel-cleansing diet and take a prescribed laxative solution the day before to ensure clear views of the colon lining.
Can I drive myself home after a colonoscopy?
No, because of the sedation you'll need someone to drive you home and should avoid driving for 24 hours.
How often should I get a colonoscopy?
This depends on your age, family history, and previous findings — typically every 5-10 years for average-risk adults, but your gastroenterologist will advise a personalized schedule.
What happens if a polyp is found?
Most polyps can be removed painlessly during the same colonoscopy and sent for lab analysis, which is one of the key ways this procedure prevents colon cancer.