Colonoscopy in Guwahati — cost, comfort and safety

What is a colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a test in which a thin, flexible tube with a camera is passed through the back passage to look at the whole large bowel (colon). It takes about 20–40 minutes. Small samples (biopsies) can be taken and polyps can be removed during the same test, so a second procedure is often not needed.

Why is it done?

• Blood in the stool, or a low blood count (anaemia) without a clear cause
• A change in bowel habit lasting more than a few weeks, especially after the age of 40–45
• Long-standing diarrhoea, or suspected colitis (ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease)
• Weight loss, or a lump or abnormal finding on a scan
• A parent, brother or sister with bowel cancer, or polyps found before

Is a colonoscopy painful?

Most colonoscopies here are done without sedation, and most people manage well. You are likely to feel cramping, pressure and the urge to pass wind while the bowel is gently inflated and the scope goes round the bends. It usually comes in short waves and settles quickly. You can ask for a pause at any time.

If you are anxious, have had a difficult colonoscopy before, or have a lot of abdominal pain, sedation is available on request at Hayat Hospital. With sedation you will need a companion, and you should not drive or make important decisions for the rest of the day.

Is it safe?

Colonoscopy is a safe and common test, but no procedure is completely risk-free. Serious problems are uncommon:

• Bleeding after a polyp is removed — about 1 in 100 to 1 in 200, more often with large polyps. Most stops on its own or is treated through the scope.
• A tear (perforation) of the bowel — about 1 in 1,000 or fewer for a diagnostic test, a little higher when large polyps are removed.
• Reactions to sedation, when it is used.

Your risk depends on your health and what is done during the test, and it is explained before you sign the consent form.

Preparation in brief

• A low-fibre diet for 2–3 days before the test, then clear liquids the day before
• The bowel-cleaning solution, taken exactly as instructed — a clean bowel makes the test quicker, safer and more accurate
• Tell us in advance if you take blood thinners or diabetes medicines

Full preparation instructions, including diabetes and blood thinners →

What does it cost? (approximate)

Approximate charges as of November 2026, set by each hospital; the billing desk confirms the final amount. Cashless treatment through most insurers and TPAs is available at Hayat Hospital.

After the test

• Bloating and passing wind for a few hours is normal. You can usually eat normally afterwards.
• You are told what was seen before you leave. Biopsy and polyp reports come later, and you will be told when to come back.
• Come back or go to emergency if you have heavy bleeding, severe or increasing tummy pain, fever or vomiting in the days after the test — especially after a polyp is removed.

Common questions

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