The Path to a Successful Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy is a medical procedure that allows a doctor to examine the inner lining of the colon (large intestines) and rectum. It is commonly used for colon cancer screening, as well as diagnosing and treating various digestive conditions. Current CDC guidelines indicate for people 45 and older should undergo colon cancer screening and may elect for a screening colonoscopy. If you do not have a personal or family history (first degree relative) you can elect for an annual stool test instead. However if the stool test ever comes back positive for occult blood, you will be referred for a colonoscopy.
During a colonoscopy, a long, flexible tube called a colonoscope is inserted through the rectum and guided into the colon. The colonoscope has a light and a camera that transmits real-time images of the colon to a monitor, enabling the doctor to identify any abnormalities, such as polyps, inflammation, or signs of disease. Preparing for a colonoscopy is crucial to ensure accurate and thorough examination of the colon. Here are seven steps to ensure a successful colonoscopy:
Consultation with Your Doctor: Review your medical history and family history with your primary care doctor to determine if a colonoscopy is needed
Medication Adjustments: review all medications (prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and supplements) with your doctor. Some medications, such as blood thinners or iron supplements, need to be temporarily discontinued before the procedure. Stopping vitamin supplements 5-7 days before the procedure is recommended.
Dietary Restrictions: Your doctor will provide specific instructions regarding your diet in the days leading up to the colonoscopy. Typically, you need to adhere to a clear liquid diet for a day (or two) before the procedure, avoiding solid foods, dairy, nuts and beverages with red or purple coloring.
Bowel Prep (the fun part): Proper bowel preparation is essential for a successful colonoscopy. Your doctor will prescribe a bowel prep solution with specific instructions on how to prepare your bowels which typically consists of 1-2L of fluid to be consumed in the 24 hour period leading up to the procedure. The prep does NOT taste good. Do not expect it to taste good. You can improve the taste with crystal light or another sugar-free light-colored water additive for flavor. The purpose of it is to clear out your bowels to provide a good view of your colon lining. An inadequate prep results in doing another follow-up colonoscopy sooner. You may also be required to take pills to help empty the colon. It's important to follow the instructions carefully for optimal results. If you wake up the morning of the procedure and your stool is not clear, please inform the clinic immediately as you need to reschedule for a later date.
Pre-procedure Instructions: Your doctor will provide specific instructions regarding the timing of your last meal or drink before the colonoscopy. Follow these instructions carefully to ensure an empty and clean colon.
Transportation Arrangements: Most people receive sedation for the colonoscopy and require someone to take you home afterward. It will also be important for your driver to be there when your doctor reviews your results as there is a good chance you won’t remember.
Post-procedural care: Lastly, plan a good meal afterwards that you can look forward to as you will be quite hungry after not eating for 24 hours. Make sure to drink plenty of water and tell your doctor immediately if you develop abdominal pain, dizziness or bloody diarrhea.
At Stone Medical DPC, we believe a well-prepared colonoscopy can provide valuable information about your digestive health and aid in the early detection and prevention of colon-related conditions. Ask your doctor today if you need a colonoscopy.