The Oaks Hospital · Colchester, Essex
Private Gastroenterologist in Colchester
Dr Thines Karunakaran is a Consultant Gastroenterologist seeing private patients at The Oaks Hospital, Colchester. Whether you need a consultation for ongoing digestive symptoms or a diagnostic endoscopy, you can be seen quickly with consultant-led care from start to finish.
Dr Thines Karunakaran
Consultant Gastroenterologist
When to see a gastroenterologist
Many digestive symptoms are not serious, but persistent or unexplained symptoms deserve a specialist opinion. As a consultant gastroenterologist in Colchester, Dr Karunakaran commonly sees patients with:
- Persistent heartburn or acid reflux not settling with treatment
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or unexplained bloating
- Ongoing or unexplained abdominal pain
- A change in bowel habit, including diarrhoea or constipation
- Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
- Suspected coeliac disease or food intolerance
- Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis)
- Abnormal blood tests such as iron deficiency anaemia or raised liver enzymes
Consultations at The Oaks Hospital
Initial consultations are unhurried, with time to discuss your symptoms, medical history and any previous tests. Where investigations are needed — such as blood tests, scans, gastroscopy or colonoscopy — these can usually be arranged promptly at the same hospital.
Endoscopy in Colchester
Dr Karunakaran personally performs gastroscopy and colonoscopy at The Oaks Hospital, so the consultant who assesses you is the one who carries out your procedure and follows up your results.
See conditions & treatmentsInsured & self-pay patients
Recognised by all major private medical insurers, including Bupa, AXA and Aviva. Self-pay packages are also available for consultations and endoscopy.
Frequently asked questions about endoscopy
Common questions patients ask before having a gastroscopy or colonoscopy in Colchester.
What is an endoscopy?+
Endoscopy is a test that uses a thin, flexible camera to look inside the digestive tract. A gastroscopy examines the oesophagus, stomach and first part of the small bowel via the mouth, while a colonoscopy examines the large bowel (colon) via the back passage. Dr Karunakaran performs both at The Oaks Hospital in Colchester.
Does an endoscopy hurt?+
Most patients find endoscopy uncomfortable rather than painful. For gastroscopy you can choose a local anaesthetic throat spray, sedation, or both. For colonoscopy, sedation and pain relief are routinely offered, and gas (Entonox) is also available. You can discuss the options with Dr Karunakaran beforehand.
Do I need sedation for a gastroscopy or colonoscopy?+
Sedation is a choice, not a requirement. Many gastroscopies are done with throat spray alone, which wears off quickly and lets you eat, drink and travel home sooner. If you choose sedation you will need someone to take you home and should not drive for 24 hours.
How do I prepare for a colonoscopy?+
You will be given a bowel preparation (a strong laxative drink) to take the day before the procedure, along with clear instructions about diet and which medications to pause. A completely clear bowel is essential for a thorough examination. Full written instructions are provided when you book.
How long does an endoscopy take and when do I get results?+
A gastroscopy usually takes 5–10 minutes and a colonoscopy 20–40 minutes, plus recovery time. Dr Karunakaran will explain the findings on the day. If biopsies or polyps are taken, laboratory results typically take around 1–2 weeks and are discussed at your follow-up.
Do I need a GP referral to see a gastroenterologist privately in Colchester?+
Self-pay patients can usually self-refer. If you have private medical insurance (such as Bupa, AXA or Aviva), most insurers ask for a GP referral letter before they will authorise a consultation or endoscopy. Dr Karunakaran is recognised by all major insurers.
How quickly can I get an appointment?+
Private consultations at The Oaks Hospital are typically available within days rather than weeks. Call the number on this page or use the contact page and the team will arrange the earliest convenient appointment.
See a gastroenterologist in Colchester — without the wait
GP referrals and self-referrals welcome. Rapid appointments at The Oaks Hospital, Colchester.