Colonoscopy preparation begins before the procedure. Patients follow a liquid diet, and they may also use a laxative or adjust certain medications beforehand. Because the colon must be empty for examination, these preparation steps allow the doctor to view the large intestine clearly. Here is more information about the preparation process for a colonoscopy:
Emptying the Colon Completely
A colonoscopy requires the colon to be empty. Remaining stool can obstruct the doctor’s view, and bowel preparation clears material from the large intestine. Because the examination involves viewing the intestinal lining, patients receive preparation instructions before the procedure.
Bowel preparation generally begins at home. Patients follow dietary instructions, and a prescribed laxative may be used to empty the colon. When preparation instructions are followed as directed, the doctor can examine the intestinal lining more clearly during the colonoscopy.
Following a Liquid Diet
A clear liquid diet is part of colonoscopy preparation. Patients avoid solid foods, and approved liquids provide options while the bowel-clearing process takes place. Because preparation instructions may vary, patients should follow the specific dietary directions provided before their procedure. Clear liquid options may include:
- Drinking clear broth without solid ingredients
- Choosing plain tea or black coffee without milk or cream
- Selecting clear juices without pulp or solid particles
- Eating plain gelatin without added fruit or other solid ingredients
Red or purple liquids may need to be avoided before the procedure. These colors can interfere with how the colon appears during the examination, so patients should follow their preparation instructions carefully.
Adjusting Medications Beforehand
Medication instructions are able to be part of colonoscopy preparation. Patients should provide a complete medication list, and the doctor can identify prescriptions or supplements requiring changes before the procedure. Because some medications may affect the procedure or preparation process, patients should discuss them with their doctor beforehand. Medication changes should follow the specific instructions provided by the medical team.
Managing Bowel Preparation
Bowel preparation commonly involves a prescribed laxative. Patients follow specific instructions for taking the preparation, and the recommended schedule depends on the directions provided before the procedure. Because responses to bowel preparation can vary, patients should contact their medical team when unexpected symptoms or difficulties occur. Concerns during preparation are able to include:
- Experiencing nausea or vomiting: Difficulty keeping the preparation down may interfere with completing the prescribed bowel-cleansing process.
- Noticing limited bowel movements: Little or no response after beginning preparation sometimes requires guidance from the medical team.
- Developing persistent abdominal discomfort: Ongoing or unusual pain during preparation should be discussed with the doctor before continuing.
- Having difficulty completing preparation: Problems following the prescribed schedule may require additional instructions before the colonoscopy.
Patients should follow the preparation instructions provided by their doctor rather than making changes independently.
Schedule Your Colonoscopy Today
Colonoscopy preparation involves several steps before the procedure. Patients follow dietary instructions and complete bowel preparation, while medication changes depend on guidance from their medical team. Because colonoscopy examines the large intestine, the procedure may identify polyps or other changes within the colon. Schedule your colonoscopy today to discuss preparation instructions and the procedure with your doctor.
