Preparation tips for a colonoscopy

Getting ready for a colonoscopy

The examination of the colon with a fiber-optic instrument inserted through the anus is one of the easier procedures in today’s medicine. As with such procedures, there are some pieces of advice that need to be followed in order to ensure the safety and dependability of the results. This text will aim at providing more basic information pertaining to this topic.

With some diseases of the colon, such as colorectal cancer or benign growths on the inside of the large intestine, it is important for the doctor to have a close look at the affected area with a view to establishing a reliable diagnosis. Therefore, we have one extremely useful procedure known under the name of colonoscopy. This method of determining the type and severity of a condition is almost crucial in setting the right diagnosis, since it enables the medical specialist to gather direct data.

Be that as it may, a colonoscopy can be regarded as one of the invasive procedures, and it is recommended that the patient prepares themselves well for the colonoscopy appointment. The remnants of the feces in the rectum may hinder the desirable flow of the routine.

Since undergoing this procedure can give crucial data to the doctor to treat the patient appropriately, it is important to take all possible measures to ensure the correct flow of the routine. Cooperation of the patient is of utmost importance, and they can greatly aid their doctor by simply preparing well for the procedure. As one may easily deduce, the most important thing is to empty the rectum prior to performing the colonoscopy. During this procedure, the medical expert will aim at collecting visual data on the texture of the tissue inside the colon. Sometimes, the doctor will even take a sample of the tissue for further analysis.

Small measures that may greatly help

As we have previously stated, one of the key things is to make sure you have a bowel movement prior to having a colonoscopy. Of course, your physician will give you close instructions on how to get ready for the routine. For example, some of the patients will be advised to ingest mainly liquids during the two or three days before the procedure, while some will have to do so even for a week before. In general, it is advisable to consume veggies, corn and iron-rich foods several days before the routine.

Sometimes your doctor will recommend the usage of laxatives. This type of medication will help you discharge your bowel properly. However, bear in mind that, while avoiding food prior to the colonoscopy, you need to make sure you stay hydrated. Therefore, do not forget to consume enough water and other liquids.