One of the best ways to prevent colorectal cancers is to make sure you get your colonoscopy. Small growths are often found in the rectum or on the lining of the colon. If not removed, these polyps can grow and become cancerous. During a colonoscopy, doctors can find and remove these growths decreasing the risk of developing colon cancer.
For several years, the recommended age for getting your first colonoscopy was 50. Unfortunately, more and more younger adults are receiving colorectal cancer diagnoses. In 2018, the American Cancer Society changed its recommendations for screenings beginning at the age of 45. Depending on family history and risk factors, your doctor may even recommend starting your screenings earlier.
Most people feel that the preparation for a colonoscopy is the worst part, but changes over the years have made the prep a bit more bearable. Wondering what’s involved in prepping for your colonoscopy? Below you’ll find the common recommendations and steps. However, please make sure to follow your specific provider recommendations as recommendations may vary.
A Few Days Prior to Your Procedure
Start preparing for your colonoscopy by eating a low fiber diet. Raw fruits and vegetables are something doctors almost always recommend, but a few days prior to your colonoscopy, you’ll want to minimize these high fiber foods. In addition, try eating a low-fiber diet and avoid things like seeds, nuts, whole grains. If you are taking a fiber supplement as part of your daily routine, stop taking these.
The Day Prior to Your Procedure
Today is the day you’ll start your clear liquid diet. What does this mean? Plain and simple, you must avoid all solid foods. Your diet will consist only of clear liquids such as clear broth or bouillon, black coffee or tea, clear juice (apple, white grape), clear soft drinks (ginger ale and Sprite are common favorites), sports drinks, Jell-O, and popsicles.
This can be a tough day for many with hunger pains but plan for a self-care day to make this day something to look forward to. Plan a day at home with good books and movies, relax and be proud of yourself for taking care of your body! The hunger pains will pass, especially if you are staying hydrated.
In addition to your clear liquid diet, you will also be required to take a medication that will clear your bowel. Yes, this is exactly what you think…this medication will cause you to have multiple episodes of diarrhea. Most people indicate it doesn’t resemble the terrible stomach cramps you may have felt when you have had the stomach flu in the past, but instead, relatively routine trips to the bathroom where your stool will become looser and looser until it resembles water coming through your system.
In the past, colonoscopy prep often required drinking a very large volume of a prescription medication mixed with water. This is no longer the typical process. Over-the-counter medication is frequently used to clear the bowel and the amount that is needed to drink is much less than in the past.
Make sure you have received and preread the instructions from your clinic regarding how to take the medication. Do not follow the instructions on the bottle of over-the-counter medication if that is part of your recommended preparation.
It is important to stay hydrated throughout. Make sure you are drinking plenty of water (flat or sparkling), apple or white grape juice, clear soda (7-Up, Sprite, ginger ale), Pedialyte, or Gatorade. It is also recommended to stay away from liquids that are red or blue.
After Your Procedure
You will not be able to drive home after your colonoscopy, so make sure you have a driver and someone who can stay with you for a few hours after you arrive home. You will likely be ready for a little nap and a small meal. Take food slowly as your digestive system may need a little time to reacclimate to your typical diet!
Most importantly, congratulations on taking good care of your body! We would love to be your partner on your healthcare journey. Call to schedule your appointment: (763) 587-7752.
