Fasting And Bowel Prep For A Colonoscopy Procedure
Colonoscopy fasting is one of two related and important steps you must take the day before a colonoscopy procedure. The other is commonly known as bowel prep.
In this article, we hope to provide you with some basic information and facts about these two important steps that precede your colon exam.
It’s important for your colon to be completely free of stool and other intestinal debris when your doctor does your colonoscopy procedure. By fasting and taking prescribed laxatives the day before, you’re making sure that your doctor will be able to get a clear view of the tissue inside your colon.
Your actual colonoscopy procedure is relatively short. It’s usually over in less than an hour, and sometimes it could be as little as fifteen minutes. But you start preparing 24 hours or more before you enter the operating room.
Generally speaking, your food intake choices are extremely limited in the 24 prior to your procedure. Depending on your situation, your doctor may even ask you to fast for longer than that (this is rare, however).
Gelatin and Popsicles are permitted during the colonoscopy fasting period. However, your choice of flavors is restricted. You can’t have anything red or blue because these can influence the color of the walls of your colon, making it more difficult for your doctor to spot potential problems. Other food and drink that is permitted include
* diet soda.
* fat-free bouillon or broth
* hard candy such as Life Savers or lemon drops
* black coffee
* plain tea without sweeteners or milk
* strained fruit juice apple, cranberry and white grape are recommended
* plain water
You should absolutely avoid dairy products like ice cream, milk and cream soups.
Usually, your doctor will allow you to have clear liquids until approximately four hours before your procedure. But be sure to ask him or her about it.
Besides observing the limitations on food and drink, you’ll be required to follow the other major part of your colonoscopy preparation, which is commonly known as “bowel prep.”
Your doctor will prescribe one of several types of strong laxative for you to take the evening before. Typically, brands include Fleets Phospho-Soda®, Golytely®, and Movi-Prep®.
Generally, you’ll take the laxative in a series of several doses starting in late afternoon or evening. Naturally, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s directions conscientiously. Also take care to follow any additional instructions from your physician.
Between doses of the laxative, it’s a good idea to drink 3-6 glasses of water or clear liquid, otherwise you may become dehydrated. Your doctor may tell you to drink even more than that.
You’ll feel as if you have a very bad case of diarrhea as the laxatives begin to take effect. You’ll probably have to make trips to the bathroom every few minutes.
Many people who have had a colonoscopy say the procedure itself is a “breeze.” The hardest part is the colonoscopy fasting and bowel prep that must be done the day before.
The most obvious benefit for having a colonoscopy done lies in making sure there are no signs of cancer in your colon. But while doing the examination, your doctor will also be able to see if any other problems may be developing, such as colon polyps or diverticulosis.
Advances in colonoscopy procedure technology, along with better public awareness through multiple media campaigns, are among the major reasons the number of colon cancer cases has been decreasing in the last few decades.
Click on bowel preparation for a colonoscopy and detection tests and screening for colon cancer to learn more about maintaining good colon health. Neal Kennedy is a former radio and television reporter with a special interest in medical topics.
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