Colonoscopy Preparation
How to prepare for a colonoscopy
By Jarrett Kruse
It is important that you follow the important steps for the colonoscopy preparation. If the colonoscopy procedure is to be complete and accurate, the colon must be completely clean and empty. Patients are given detailed instructions about the prep for colonoscopy in the days leading up to your procedure. Also tell your doctor if you have any allergies. In general this consists of a large volume of a special colon care cleansing solution or several days of a clear liquid diet and laxatives or enemas prior to the examination. These instructions should be followed to the letter or the procedure may be unsatisfactory and have to be repeated later or a less accurate alternative chosen in its place.
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The colonoscopy procedure lasts under an hour for which you are sedated and will determine whether you need further colon surgery. Most medications should be continued as usual, but some may interfere with the examination. The physician will also want to be aware of the patient’s allergies and any other major illnesses. The examiner should be alerted if, in the past, patients have required antibiotics prior to surgical or dental procedures. Instructions may also be given to avoid certain foods for a couple of days prior to the procedure, such as stringy foods, foods with seeds, or red Jello.
You will need to arrange a ride home after the colonoscopy as you won’t be allowed to drive because of the sedatives you’ll be given during the procedure. Your doctor may also give you other special instructions. These instructions should be followed to the letter or the procedure may be unsatisfactory and have to be repeated later or a less accurate alternative chosen in its place. Most procedures like a colonic can be continued as usual, but some may interfere with the examination. It is best that the physician is informed of all current prescription or over the counter medications. Colon health is very important to maintain especially as your age progresses. Colonoscopy complications are rare and usually minor when performed by physicians who have been specially trained. If there is a serious problem where a biopsy is needed, a colon cancer treatment regiment may have to be discussed.
