Instructions for a Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy is a procedure performed by a gastrointerologist to check for signs of colon cancer. For someone to receive an accurate test, the colon must first be properly cleansed. It is important to follow the instructions for a colonoscopy. If instructions provided by your physician are not followed correctly, the test will be inaccurate, resulting in a repeated test.

Before The Colonoscopy

Five days before the colonoscopy stop taking medications such as ibuprofen, aspirin, iron and vitamins. If taking blood thinners, the physician will advise you what to do. Two days before the test a low fiber diet is begun. A low fiber diet will help lessen the amount of stool in the colon. During this diet, avoid wheat products, nuts and fried foods. Also, avoid or limit red meat intake for about two days before the test.

Colon Cleansing

The day before the colonoscopy a liquid diet is followed. Soup broths may be eaten and beverages such as coffee and tea (without milk), soft drinks, water and clear juices can be consumed. Avoid any liquids during this time that are the color red. Red dye in foods and liquids can cause a false reading of the colonoscopy. You will also begin a regimen of cleansing the colon. GoLytely is a prescription laxative often prescribed and comes in powder form. Mix the powder with water as directed and refrigerate. During the day before, drink the laxative over a six-hour period, making sure to drink it all. A person usually experiences the first bowel movement within 30 to 60 minutes of taking GoLytely. Diarrhea occurs throughout the day and the ending result of a clear colon will be a pale yellow watery stool. It is important to drink liquids during the cleansing process to keep you from getting dehydrated.

The Day of the Colonoscopy

The day of your exam you may drink clear liquids up to three hours before the test. If you have medications that you have to take, take them first thing in the morning. Make sure that you have someone who can drive you to your appointment. Anesthesia is given to help you relax and will make you drowsy so you will not be able to drive after the procedure. After the colonoscopy and you return home, you may begin your normal diet. Avoid driving, however, for the next 24 hours.