A colonoscopy is a medical test that is utilized to evaluate your colon for pre-cancerous cells, inflammation, and polyps. The colon is the large intestine, but a colonoscopy evaluates the entire tract from your rectum through your intestine.
One of the major benefits of a colonoscopy is that it is not only a test but also a preventive measure in which your gastroenterologist can remove any polyps – which can be cancerous or precancerous – that may be found.
Before your colonoscopy, there are several straightforward things you will need to do in order to prepare and clean out your colon for the test. Let’s talk about some of the main things you can expect during your bowel prep for your colon test, and where you can go to have a colonoscopy by a gastroenterologist who has years of successful experience in helping patients avoid developing colon cancer and colorectal cancer.
Change Your Diet as Prescribed a Few Days Before Your Colonoscopy
During the several days before your procedure, you’ll need to avoid low-fiber foods and incorporate high-fiber foods. Your doctor will let you know which foods are involved and the exact timeframe for this.
Only Drink Clear Liquids 24 Hours Before the Test
You will be advised to avoid consuming all solid foods, including semi-solids like yogurt, during the 24 hours before your procedure. You will be able to consume clear liquids, such as popsicles, clear juice, sports drinks, and clear broth-style soup.
You will need to avoid liquids that have certain dyes in them, such as anything that’s red, blue, or breaks down into red. These dyes can coat your colon and skew your gastroenterologist’s view of your colon.
Stop Taking Certain Medications
If you take blood thinners, your doctor will advise you to stop taking them within a certain number of days before your procedure in order to reduce your risk of bleeding during the colonoscopy. However, if you’re at a high risk of developing blood clots, your physician may advise you to continue taking the medication right up to the night before your procedure. Therefore, be sure to consult with your gastroenterologist for their recommendations regarding your specific situation and health.
Drink the Prep as Directed
Your gastroenterology practitioner will ask you to drink a specific solution a certain number of hours before your procedure. This liquid encourages your bowels to empty completely so that the doctor can see a clean bowel during the test.
You’ll need to drink the entire solution; make sure you follow instructions carefully. You will likely also be instructed to avoid eating and drinking after midnight before your procedure, which is typical of any surgical type of test or procedure such as a colonoscopy.
Austin, TX Gastroenterologist for Your Colonoscopy
If you are age 50 and are therefore due to have your first colonoscopy, or if you have colon cancer in your family history, schedule a consultation with a skilled and caring gastroenterologist here at Austin Gastroenterology. The bowel prep before having a colonoscopy is much easier and pleasant than ever before, and your doctor will explain how you can incorporate your own preferences to make your preparation as simple and palatable as possible.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced gastroenterologists here at Austin Gastroenterology, contact our friendly staff today at our office near you or fill out our simple appointment request form online now. We look forward to being your partner for a lifetime of excellent digestive health!
