Illness name: colonoscopy

  • Original languages: English

Description:

What is a colonoscopy? - Colonoscopy

  • A colonoscopy is a test to check inside your bowels.
  • This test can help find what's causing your bowel symptoms.
  • A long, thin, flexible tube with a small camera inside it is passed into your bottom.
  • You'll be given a laxative so your bowels are empty for the test.

Important

You're usually awake during a colonoscopy. You'll be offered medicine to make you more comfortable and make the test easier.

Video: What happens during a colonoscopy?

In this video, a nurse explains what happens during a colonoscopy.

Media last reviewed: 3 October 2022
Media review due: 3 October 2025

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Page last reviewed: 14 November 2022
Next review due: 14 November 2025