Doctors and medical professionals recommend most people ages 45-75 get screened for colon cancer, usually with a colonoscopy.
Though it’s not at the top of anyone’s list of fun things to do, getting a colonoscopy is an important part of preventive health.
WHAT IS A COLONOSCOPY?
A colonoscopy is a diagnostic test used to view the colon and rectum. You won’t be awake for the procedure—doctors use anesthesia for colonoscopies to keep you comfortable.
While you’re asleep, the doctor uses a long, thin, and flexible tube with a camera to view inside the colon and rectum for any abnormalities including polyps or even cancer. Your doctor can remove polyps and some cancers during the procedure.
The actual test only takes about 15-30 minutes, but you can expect to be at your doctor’s office or hospital for several hours.
WHY YOU NEED TO PREP FOR A COLONOSCOPY
Though it’s often the most uncomfortable part of the colonoscopy process, prep is very important. When your doctor is looking for polyps and other abnormalities, having a clear image is vital. If there is any stool blocking the colon, it could prevent your doctor from finding something important.
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM COLONOSCOPY PREP
You might hear about the dreaded prep before a colonoscopy, but when you know what you can expect, it might not seem so scary.
Each person’s experience may look slightly different depending on the doctor, the person’s medications, and any special circumstances. In many cases, the doctor will have you stop taking certain supplements, prescription medications, and over-the-counter medications to reduce the risk of bleeding.
After those adjustments are made (if necessary), the prep starts a few days before your procedure.
COLONOSCOPY PREP: A FEW DAYS BEFORE
A few days before your appointment, your doctor may tell you to change your diet. This could include cutting out fiber-rich foods, such as nuts, whole-grain bread, fruits and vegetables with skin or seeds, and more.
Instead, you could eat low-fiber foods like milk, white bread, applesauce, broth, and chicken.
You’ll also need to avoid eating any red or purple foods. The colors can show up in the colon and look like blood.
COLONOSCOPY PREP: THE DAY BEFORE
You’ll want to take the day off from work the day before your procedure. Your doctor will recommend you only drink clear liquids such as water, sports drinks, coffee, tea, and broth. You cannot eat the day before your procedure.
This is also when you’ll start taking your bowel prep medications. It may be a kit with medications from your doctor or over-the-counter laxatives. It’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions exactly. Your procedure may have to be postponed if you don’t.
Once you start taking the laxatives, you’ll want to stay close to the bathroom. The idea is to clean your colon out so the doctor can get a clear picture.
COLONOSCOPY PREP: THE DAY OF YOUR PROCEDURE
After you’ve taken the last of your bowel prep, your doctor will most likely advise you to stop drinking or eating. Because of the anesthesia used, you can’t have food in your stomach. Plus, you don’t want to erase all of the work you put in the day before!
HELPFUL TIPS FOR COLONOSCOPY PREP
One of the most important things you can do is stay hydrated. When you’re emptying your bowels over such a short period of time, it’s easy to become dehydrated. Make sure you’re following your doctor’s instructions and the fluids you drink are hydrating.
Some people prefer to use wipes instead of toilet paper during the prep process. Because you’ll be using the bathroom frequently, making it as comfortable as possible can help. Wet wipes and those with witch hazel can be soothing.
If you opt to stick with toilet paper, get some that is soft and durable.
SCHEDULE YOUR COLONOSCOPY AND PREVENTIVE SCREENINGS
Getting a colonoscopy is an important part of preventive health for those 45 and older. The first step is to see your primary care provider. They can then refer you to a specialist for the procedure.
Use the Find a Doctor tool on the Select Health website to find a primary care provider near you.
If you’re not a Select Health member and you need health insurance, we can help. Browse our plans to find one that fits your needs or call 800-442-3125 (toll-free).
