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Gastroscopy/Colonoscopy - FAQ

Colonoscopy

  • Who should have a colonoscopy?

    Colonoscopy may be recommended to:
    Look for causes of blood loss from the bowel
    Check for polyps
    Determine the extent and severity of any inflammation of the colon
    Re-examine the colon after a polyp or cancer has been removed to check for and remove any new growths.
    See Colonoscopy or Colorectal Cancer Screening

  • I have family members who have had colon cancer, but I have no symptoms.  Do I still need to be checked?

    Please refer to our section on Colorectal Cancer Screening.

  • If I have a normal colonoscopy, does that mean I never need another one?

    This will be dependant on your family history. The clinician may recommend that you are screened on a regular basis (often 3 to 5 yearly).

  • Does a colonoscopy check my entire bowel?

    A colonoscopy is a test to check for disease inside your colon and rectum. Your colon and rectum make up the lower half of your gut and are often called your large bowel. A colonoscopy does not check your small (or upper) bowel. If a check of your small bowel is required, your clinician may recommend a Capsule Endoscopy.  If a check of your stomach is required your clinician may recommend a gastroscopy.

  • What symptoms would alert me that I might have bowel cancer?

    You might have symptoms such as:
    Blood in your stool when you go to the toilet (you might notice blood in the toilet bowl, on the toilet paper, or covering/mixed with the stool);
    A significant change in your bowel habits, such as having bowel movements more often each day, thin bowel movements, diarrhoea or constipation;
    Unusual change in weight (loss or gain).
    Refer to Bowel Cancer page for more information

Gastroscopy and Colonoscopy

  • Where is a gastroscopy or colonoscopy performed?

    A gastroscopy or colonoscopy is normally performed under sedation in a procedure room.

  • Do I need an anaesthetic to have a gastroscopy or a colonoscopy?

    These procedures are normally carried out under sedation and only rarely is a general anaesthetic required.

  • What preparation is involved for a gastroscopy or a colonoscopy and how long afterwards could I resume normal activities?

    A Gastroscopy requires no food six hours prior and no fluid four hours prior to the procedure.
    A Colonoscopy requires a low residue diet 2 days prior, clear fluids for all or part of the day prior, as well as a bowel preparation drink to clear the colon.
    If the procedure has been performed under sedation, recovery usually takes up to two hours after which time you will be able to eat or drink as you wish. If, however, you have had either of the procedures under general anaesthetic, recovery will take longer.
    You should be able to resume normal activities the day after your procedure. However, you will not be able to drive for 24 hours following a General Anaesthetic or sedation.
    A written report is provided by your clinician after the procedure (with a copy to your GP) and further advice or diagnostic consultation are arranged as necessary.

  • How do I get a referral?

    Your GP can refer you for a gastroscopy or colonoscopy or you may contact Intus directly to make an appointment.