How to Prepare for a Colonoscopy: A Step-by-Step Guide

Whether it’s checking for colon cancer, internal hemorrhoids, or just a bad case of constipation, colonoscopies are a crucial medical diagnostic tool that has alerted doctors on the status of many colon maladies. However, these procedures can be a little anxiety-inducing. Will it hurt a lot? Do I have to drink special fluids before? How long is this going to put me out? Use this article as a helpful guide for all your questions regarding your scheduled colonoscopy.

Step 1: Consult Your Doctor

Before the procedure, your doctor will provide specific instructions based on your medical history and current medications. Inform your doctor if you are:

• Taking blood thinners
• Diabetic
• Pregnant
• Allergic to any medications

Step 2: Adjust Your Diet (3-5 Days Before)

Switch to a low-fiber diet a few days before the colonoscopy. This helps reduce the residue in your intestines. Recommended foods include:

• Clear soups
• White bread, pasta, and rice
• Cooked vegetables without skin
• Lean meats

Keep food clear and to a minimum. Avoid fried foods, any bright red foods as this will impact your stool color and high-fiber foods such as:

• Whole grains
• Raw vegetables
• Nuts and seeds
• Fruits with skin or seeds

Step 3: Begin Bowel Prep (1 Day Before)

Bowel preparation is critical to ensure that the colon is completely clear for the procedure. The key to the game is simple: emptying the bowels prior to your appointment. Without this crucial step, any growths, polyps, or abnormalities may be missed. 

Your doctor will prescribe a laxative solution, which you will need to drink according to the given schedule. Tips for successful bowel prep:

• Follow the Timing: Drink the solution in divided doses as instructed (usually half in the evening and the rest in the morning).
• Stay Hydrated: No solid foods at all. If you can handle it a fast could be helpful, but you can supplement this window by drinking plenty of clear fluids such as water, clear broth, or electrolyte drinks to prevent dehydration.
• Expect Frequent Bathroom Trips: The laxative will cause frequent bowel movements, so stay near a bathroom.

Step 4: What to Expect on the Day of the Procedure

On the day of your colonoscopy:

• Bring a Companion: Since you will be sedated during the procedure, you’ll need someone to drive you home afterward.
• No Eating or Drinking: Avoid all food and drink except for small sips of water if needed for medications.
• Wear Comfortable Clothing: Opt for loose, comfortable clothing.

How to know if my colonoscopy prep is working

While following these steps should allow you a worry-free colonoscopy, for the hypervigilant, check for these steps that your colonoscopy prep is working:

• Bowel movements are watery and clear
• Seek medical attention if your bowel movements have become bloody or you are suffering from chronic constipation even after drinking the bowel cleansing liquid.

During and After The Colonoscopy

The good news is that once you’re ready, a colonoscopy takes less than an hour to complete and you should be at the doctors for no more than 2-3 hours including prep and recovery. 

Your doctor will often begin by administering a light sedative. This means you will need to get a ride home after your test, and you should call off work on the day of the test. The sedative and test take about an hour to wear off but you should spend the rest of the day relaxing. If your doctor has found any polyps that are worth consideration they will let you know and send them off for further testing.

4 quick tips for colonoscopy prep:

• Read your colonoscopy prep instructions asap – you don’t want to have to reschedule cause you missed a crucial step
• Consider nonsugar sweeteners like kool-aid or stevia to keep you from being bored of drinking water
• Consider drinking your colonoscopy prep fluid cold, sweetened, and through a straw to make it easier to put down
• Once the fluids and diet kick in, keep your clothes nice and loose and try to take a little time off work if you can, it might be hard to stay away from the bathroom for the time being

Preparing for a colonoscopy may seem daunting, but following these steps will make the process smoother and more effective. Proper preparation ensures that your doctor can get a clear view of your colon, making it easier to detect any issues early. If you have any concerns or questions during the preparation process, don’t hesitate to contact your healthcare provider.