Preventative & Diagnostic Colonoscopies
Colonoscopy Procedure
Colonoscopy procedures provide your doctor with a visual view of what may be happening in your digestive tract and allows for your care staff to make a diagnostic or treatment plan for your health. The colon is your large intestine and one of your body’s main nutrient absorbers, and if there are any lesions, polyps, or other abnormalities, a colonoscopy may be able to detect them.
How Do You Prepare for a Colonoscopy?
To prepare for your colonoscopy, follow these general instructions:
Transportation and Time Off: Arrange for a responsible adult, at least 18 years old, to drive you home after the procedure, as you will be sedated and unable to drive yourself. Plan to take the day off from work, as you’ll need time to rest and recover. Also, ensure you have childcare arrangements, as children are not allowed at the appointment.
Diet and Medication Adjustments: One week before the procedure, stop taking iron supplements, vitamins, and herbal remedies. Switch to a low-fiber diet, avoiding high-fiber foods like vegetables and seeds. You can eat cooked vegetables and peeled fruits. Obtain the prescribed bowel-cleansing medication and follow any specific instructions if an alternative is required. The day before the colonoscopy, stick to a clear-liquid diet, including water, clear broths, and certain juices. Avoid red or purple liquids, solid foods, and dairy products.
Bowel Preparation: On the evening before the procedure, drink the prescribed bowel-cleansing solution as directed, typically starting around 6:00 PM and finishing by 8:00 PM. Continue to drink clear liquids to stay hydrated. On the day of the colonoscopy, take any remaining bowel preparation solution and skip diabetes medications until after the procedure. Do not eat or drink anything for two hours before your appointment. Bring all your daily medications with you, and review any additional instructions provided via the video link if available. For rescheduling or questions, contact the office at least three business days prior to your procedure.
Reasons to Schedule Your Colonoscopy
- Screening for colorectal cancer: Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in the world. A colonoscopy can help detect colorectal cancer at an early stage when it is more treatable.
- Abdominal pain and rectal bleeding: If you have unexplained abdominal pain or rectal bleeding, a colonoscopy can help your doctor identify the cause and develop a treatment plan.
- Changes in bowel habits: If you have experienced recent changes in your bowel habits, such as persistent constipation or diarrhea, a colonoscopy can help determine if there is an underlying medical condition.
- Family history of colorectal cancer: If you have a family history of colorectal cancer, you may be at a higher risk of developing the disease. A colonoscopy can help detect any abnormalities early on.
- Screening for polyps: Polyps are growths that can develop in the colon and rectum. If left untreated, some polyps can turn into cancer. A colonoscopy can help detect and remove polyps before they become cancerous.
- Screening for inflammatory bowel disease: If you have inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease, a colonoscopy can help your doctor monitor your condition and detect any complications.
- Hydration is key to making the bowel-cleansing solution more effective and to help your body adjust to the changes.
- One week before your procedure, adhere closely to the low-fiber diet.
- Familiarize yourself with the entire preparation process well in advance. Review any provided instructions and watch any preparatory videos.
- Stay Positive and Relaxed: Being relaxed can help with the process, and understanding that it’s a routine procedure can alleviate some of the stress and discomfort associated with it
- If biopsies were taken during your colonoscopy, make sure to follow up with your healthcare provider to discuss the results.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it’s best to take the day off from work. The sedation can leave you feeling groggy, and you may not be in a condition to perform your job effectively.
Follow the bowel preparation instructions exactly as given. Continue to drink clear liquids after finishing the solution. Your bowel movements should be clear or light yellow. If they are still dark or you’re unsure, contact your healthcare provider for advice.
The procedure itself usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes. However, you should plan for additional time for preparation and recovery, which may take a few hours.
You can usually resume eating and drinking after the procedure, but start with light foods and fluids. Follow any specific dietary instructions given by your healthcare provider.
After the procedure, you may feel bloated or have mild cramping. These symptoms are normal and should subside within a few hours. You might also experience some gas or a slight sore throat if a tube was used during the procedure.
You can generally resume normal activities the day after the procedure, but avoid strenuous exercise or heavy lifting for at least 24 hours. If you feel tired or groggy, take it easy and give yourself time to recover.
Your healthcare provider will discuss the results of the colonoscopy with you either immediately after the procedure or during a follow-up appointment. In some cases, biopsy results may take a few days to a week to come back.
A follow-up appointment may be necessary depending on the findings of your colonoscopy. Your healthcare provider will let you know if a follow-up is needed and schedule it accordingly.
