For many people, one of the most uncomfortable parts of a colonoscopy is preparing for the procedure.
The purpose of a colonoscopy is to examine the colon and rectum for abnormalities such as polyps, tumors, and inflammation to help detect and prevent colorectal cancer. To this end, it is important that the medical team has a clear view.
Dr. Derek Ebner, a gastroenterologist at the Mayo Clinic, offers tips on how to make preparing your bowels for a colonoscopy easier, which is basically a powerful laxative.
“The basics of preparing for a colonoscopy is to make sure there is nothing in the colon,” says Dr. Ebner.
This is so that your medical team can detect and remove polyps or lesions.
“We often hear that colon prep can be difficult,” he says.
When to start preparing your bowels
Check the preparation guidelines 1 to 2 weeks before your procedure for any special instructions. You may be advised to make some changes to your diet a week before your surgery.
Bowel preparation fluids are often started the day before the colonoscopy. Dr. Ebner says this is where people can struggle.
Tips for taking bowel preparation fluids
“There are a few tricks. It often helps to chill the solution and drink it through a straw. Some people also like to chew on a small lime or lemon wedge after drinking a little of the solution,” says Ebner. says the doctor.
Chewing gum between sips of the solution may also help. He also often takes the solution over two days, which he says also helps.
“Half the dose is given the day before surgery, and the other half is given the day of surgery. This makes it better tolerated. And in fact, doing that split can give you a better cleanout.” ” he said. he says.
Dr. Ebner says it's normal to experience some degree of sinus spasm, bloating, discomfort, and nausea during bowel preparation. “People with nausea often find it very helpful to slow down their fluid intake,” he says.
___
©2024 Mayo Clinic News Network. Visit newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
