Is endoscopy or colonoscopy painful?

Most people feel only mild pressure or bloating. Sedation is offered based on the procedure and your health, which keeps the experience comfortable.

How long does the procedure take?

An upper GI endoscopy usually takes 10 to 20 minutes and a colonoscopy 20 to 45 minutes, plus preparation and recovery time.

Do I need to stay in hospital?

Usually not. Both are generally day-care procedures, and you can go home the same day once you have recovered from sedation.

How should I prepare for a colonoscopy?

You will follow a light diet and take a prescribed bowel preparation the day before, so the colon is clean. The hospital gives you written instructions when you book.

When will I get my results?

The doctor explains what was seen right after the procedure. If a biopsy was taken, the pathology report is usually ready within a few days.

Endoscopy and Colonoscopy in Neelankarai, ECR

Call +91 91761 00016 Request an appointment

Healtree Hospital in Neelankarai, ECR, Chennai performs upper GI endoscopy and colonoscopy on site, under the gastroenterology team. The tests look directly at the food pipe, stomach, small intestine and colon to find the cause of acidity, bleeding, pain or bowel changes. Call +91 91761 00016 to book.

An upper GI endoscopy passes a thin, flexible camera through the mouth to examine the oesophagus (food pipe), stomach and the first part of the small intestine. It is used to investigate persistent acidity or heartburn, difficulty swallowing, upper abdominal pain, vomiting, anaemia and signs of bleeding.

A colonoscopy examines the large intestine (colon) and rectum. Doctors recommend it for blood in the stool, a lasting change in bowel habits, chronic diarrhoea or constipation, unexplained weight loss, and for screening when there is a family history of colon cancer.

During either test the doctor can take a small tissue sample (biopsy) and, where needed, treat what is found, such as removing a small polyp. Sedation is offered according to the procedure and your health, so most people feel little discomfort.

Preparation matters. For an endoscopy you will usually be asked not to eat for several hours beforehand. A colonoscopy needs a bowel preparation the day before so the colon is clear. The team will give you written instructions, and will review any blood thinners or diabetes medicines with you in advance.

Most procedures are done as day care, so you go home the same day once the sedation wears off. Please bring someone with you, as you should not drive after sedation. Results from what the doctor sees are explained before you leave; biopsy reports follow a few days later.

Related speciality: Medical Gastroenterology & Hepatology.

Endoscopy & Colonoscopy: common questions

Is endoscopy or colonoscopy painful?: Most people feel only mild pressure or bloating. Sedation is offered based on the procedure and your health, which keeps the experience comfortable.
How long does the procedure take?: An upper GI endoscopy usually takes 10 to 20 minutes and a colonoscopy 20 to 45 minutes, plus preparation and recovery time.
Do I need to stay in hospital?: Usually not. Both are generally day-care procedures, and you can go home the same day once you have recovered from sedation.
How should I prepare for a colonoscopy?: You will follow a light diet and take a prescribed bowel preparation the day before, so the colon is clean. The hospital gives you written instructions when you book.
When will I get my results?: The doctor explains what was seen right after the procedure. If a biopsy was taken, the pathology report is usually ready within a few days.

Ready to see a specialist?

Book an appointment online or call us any time. Our team is available 24/7.

Book Appointment +91 91761 00016