Colonoscopies aren’t exactly fun, but they’re necessary as you get older to ensure that your health is in good standing. Of course, many people avoid the procedure because of what it entails as well as the colonoscopy preparation you have to go through prior to your appointment.
In this article, we’re going to talk about what you can expect from a colonoscopy procedure as well as the steps to take for your colonoscopy prep.
Keep reading to learn more.
What to Expect During Your Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy is an exam that doctors use to detect any changes or abnormalities in your large intestine and rectum. By the time you turn 45—or a few years earlier—you should be planning for your first colonoscopy appointment.
The colonoscopy procedure is fairly simple and typically takes between 30 and 60 minutes to complete. During the procedure, your doctor will have you lay on your side with your knees drawn to your chest while he or she inserts a long flexible tube, known as a colonoscope, into your rectum. At the end of the colonoscope is a tiny video camera that allows the doctor to view the inside of the entire colon on a connected monitor.
The colonoscope is long enough to span your entire large intestine or your colon. It also allows the doctor to pump air or carbon dioxide into your colon as needed to inflate it for better viewing of your colon’s lining. When this happens, there may be some discomfort in the form of abdominal cramping or the urge to go to the bathroom, which is why your doctor may administer a mild sedative often combined with intravenous pain medication.
During the procedure, your doctor will examine the lining of your rectum and colon for abnormal tissues, such as polyps. These abnormalities can usually be removed directly through the scope during the procedure, and biopsy (tissue samples) can be taken at this time as well.
Moreover, colonoscopies are important because they allow your doctor to screen for colon cancer and investigate the intestinal signs and symptoms that may be causing abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, chronic diarrhea, chronic constipation, and other intestinal issues.
It’s critical to remember that if you’re in your mid to late 40s (or older) and are at the average risk for colon cancer—meaning the only factor here is age—your doctor will likely recommend that you go in for a colonoscopy every 10 years for a screening.
How to Prepare for Your Colonoscopy
Knowing what to expect from your colonoscopy appointment is only half the battle. For a successful colonoscopy, you’ll need to attend your appointment with a completely emptied out colon. The best way to make that happen is to use a strong laxative, however, that’s not the only step there is to take.
To prep for your colonoscopy as best as possible, follow these four steps:
1. Make a Plan with Your Doctor
Your doctor is your best source of information when it comes to getting ready for your colonoscopy. Once you schedule your appointment, he or she will likely give you a printed list of instructions to follow—read it carefully!
Your first step in preparing is making sure you clear your schedule for at least 24 hours prior to your appointment, make plans to have some go with you, and gather the necessary supplies:
Low-fiber foods
Juices, broths, and sports drinks
Moist wipes
Diaper cream
Strong laxatives
2. Start Your Colonoscopy Prep Diet
Three to four days leading up to your colonoscopy, you’ll want to start cleansing your colon by eating lighter—as in low-fiber and easily digestible foods.
Here are some things you can have:
White bread
Vegetables—that are well-cooked and without skin
Fruit—without seeds or skin
Lean protein such as chicken or fish
Eggs
Here’s what you should avoid:
Seeds, nuts, and popcorn
Tough meats (such as steak)
Whole grains
Fatty foods
Raw vegetables
Fruits that have seeds, skin, or peels
Corn, cabbage, broccoli, beans, and peas
You should also avoid taking any vitamins or other supplements during this time, and verify with your doctor whether or not you should hold off on taking any prescription medication. This goes for over-the-counter inflammatories as well.
3. Fast for 24 Hours
24-hours before the procedure, you’re not permitted to have any solid foods. The only thing you’ll be able to take in are clear liquids. Coffee and sodas are okay too, but no cream and very minimal sugar.
You can also have gelatin and ice pops, but it’s important to avoid anything with blue, purple, and red coloring, as they can discolor the lining of your colon.
Be sure not to eat or drink anything at all for two up to two hours before your appointment.
4. Purge Yourself the Night Before
The night before your colonoscopy is when you’ll be taking a strong laxative, aka your colonoscopy prep drink. Be aware that it will be rather forceful and uncomfortable, so you’ll want to stay in the bathroom until it’s over.
The method that most people follow is known as split dosing, where you’re directed to drink a half-gallon of liquid laxative the evening before and another half-gallon six hours before your appointment.
Liquid lasting doesn’t exactly taste great, so you’re going to want to mix it with a sports drink if possible and keep it chilled. You may even want to follow up the dose with a piece of hard candy to get rid of the awful flavor.
Once the laxative starts working, you’ll likely feel cramps and bloating leading up to diarrhea. For those with more sensitive stomachs, you may feel nauseous and begin to vomit.
Before the diarrhea starts, it’s recommended that you apply diaper cream to ease any chafing and discomfort from the area drying out. If the process was effective, your stool will begin to run completely clear.
Do it for Your Health
While colonoscopy prep and the procedure can cause some discomfort, the most important thing to remember is that you’re doing this for your health. It’s important to get screened for abnormalities, including cancer, so that you can continue to live a healthy and happy life.
Take your health into your own hands by contacting us today and scheduling an appointment. Don’t worry, we’ll be gentle — you’re in good hands!