Colonoscopy Fasting And Colon Prep Rules
Colonoscopy fasting is a step you need to take in preparation for the colonoscopy procedure itself. It’s one of several important ways to get ready for the doctor to examine your colon for signs or colon cancer or other colon problems. Another important part of colonoscopy preparation is known as bowel prep.
The goal of this article is to provide you with information about both.
Colonoscopy fasting and bowel prep are designed to make sure you’ve moved all stools and other intestinal debris out of your colon by the time you go into the operating room. By fasting a taking a prescribed laxative the day before, you give your doctor the best chance of getting a clear view of the walls of your colon.
Most colonoscopy procedures last less than an hour. Some are done in half that time or even less. But preparation for your colonoscopy starts at least 24 hours before you enter the operating room.
Fasting is the first step, and it usually starts the morning of the day before your procedure. Your food choices are very limited once you begin. It’s also possible that your doctor will ask you to fast for longer than the normal 24 hour time frame.
Gelatin and Popsicles are permitted during the colonoscopy fasting period. However, your choice of flavors is restricted. You can’t have anything red or blue because these can influence the color of the walls of your colon, making it more difficult for your doctor to spot potential problems. You’ll also be allowed to eat or drink
* diet soda.
* fat-free bouillon or broth
* hard candy such as Life Savers or lemon drops
* black coffee
* plain tea with no sugar or cream
* strained fruit juice specifically apple, white grape, or cranberry
* plain water
Food and drinks you should definitely avoid include cream soup, milk, ice cream and other dairy products.
Usually, your doctor will allow you to have clear liquids until approximately four hours before your procedure. But be sure to ask him or her about it.
In addition to food and drink restrictions, you’ll also have to complete the other major step prior to your colonoscopy, known as “bowel prep.”
Your doctor will recommend one of several types of laxatives to take the night before. The following brand names are prescribed most often: Golytely®, Fleets Phospho-Soda® and Movi-Prep®.
These products generally require you to take them in a serious of doses over the course of several hours. Make sure you follow the directions on the packaging, and also observe any further recommendations from your doctor.
These laxatives will also “rob” your system of a lot of fluids. So you should drink three-to-six 8-ounce glasses of water between doses to stay hydrated.
When the laxatives begin to work, you’ll feel as if you have a very bad case of diarrhea.
Many people who have had a colonoscopy say the procedure itself is a “breeze.” The hardest part is the colonoscopy fasting and bowel prep that must be done the day before.
The major benefit of a colonoscopy is screening for symptoms and signs of colon cancer. But there are other benefits too. During your examination, your doctor will also be able to spot other potential trouble-in-the-making, like diverticulosis or polyps that may develop into cancer later.
Thanks to advances in colonoscopy procedure technology, plus increased public awareness through media campaigns, the number of colon cancer cases in the last few decades has been steadily decreasing.
Click on bowel preparation and screening tests for colon cancer to learn more about keeping your colon healthy. Neal Kennedy is a retired TV and radio talk show host with a special interest in health topics.
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