If your doctor has recommended a colonoscopy, you likely have questions – about the preparation, the procedure itself, and what comes after. At Alina Medical Centre, we specialize in making this vital screening as comfortable and stress-free as possible.

This guide covers everything you need to know, from costs in Nairobi to step-by-step prep instructions, so you can feel confident and prepared.

Why Is a Colonoscopy Important?

A colonoscopy helps detect:
✔ Colorectal cancer (Kenya’s 3rd most common cancer)
✔ Polyps (pre-cancerous growths)
✔ Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
✔ Unexplained diarrhea, bleeding, or pain

Early detection saves lives—90% of colorectal cancer cases are treatable when caught early.

Colonoscopy Cost in Kenya (2024)

Prices range from KES 25,000 to 50,000, depending on:

• Hospital/clinic tier (private vs. public)
• Sedation type (mild vs. deep sedation)
• Additional tests (biopsies, polyp removal)

Note: Most insurance plans cover screening colonoscopies for patients over 45.

How to Prepare: 3 Key Steps

1. 3 Days Before: Diet Changes

• Eat low-fiber foods: White rice, pasta, eggs, lean meat.
• Avoid: Seeds, nuts, corn, raw veggies, and red meat.

2. The Day Before: Clear Liquids Only

• Allowed: Water, clear broth, black tea, strained fruit juice (no pulp).
• Avoid: Milk, alcohol, anything red/purple (can mimic blood).

3. The Night Before: Bowel Prep

• Take prescribed laxatives (e.g., Movicol or Klean-Prep).
• Expect frequent, watery stools until your bowels are clear.
• Tip: Use wet wipes and apply petroleum jelly to avoid irritation.

What to Expect During the Procedure

• Duration: 30–60 minutes.
• Sedation: You’ll be given mild sedation (you won’t feel pain or remember the procedure).
• Process: A thin, flexible tube with a camera examines your colon. If polyps are found, they’re removed immediately.

After the Colonoscopy

• Recovery: Rest for 1–2 hours; you’ll need someone to drive you home.
• Side Effects: Mild bloating or gas (resolves within hours).
• Results: Immediate for visuals; biopsy results take 3–7 days.

FAQs

1. Is a colonoscopy painful?

No—sedation ensures you feel nothing. Some patients report mild pressure.

2. How often should I get one?

• Age 40+: Every 10 years (or 5 years if high-risk).
• Family history of colon cancer: Start screenings 10 years earlier than the age your relative was diagnosed.

3. Can I work the next day?

Yes! Most patients resume normal activities after 24 hours.

4. What if polyps are found?

They’re removed during the procedure and tested. Most are benign, but early removal prevents cancer.

Why Choose Alina Medical Centre?

• Expert gastroenterologists (not general surgeons)
• Advanced sedation techniques for comfort
• Same-day results for most cases
• Transparent pricing with no hidden fees

Don’t delay this life-saving test. Book your colonoscopy today:
📞 +254 758-777-444 | 🌐 www.alinamedical.co.ke