Guide To Getting A Colonoscopy

Preparing For The Procedure

Most individuals who undergo a colonoscopy describe the most undesirable part of the process as the pre-procedure preparation. A key requirement for the administration of a successful and smooth colonoscopy is the emptying of the contents of the patient's colon. Several days before the procedure, a patient needs to consume a diet that is low in fiber. During the last twenty-four hours before the procedure, patients should only be consuming clear liquids like tea, broth, and juice. The day before the colonoscopy, the patient will consume a specific liquid that stimulates unpleasant bowel-clearing diarrhea. The physician may prescribe them a strong laxative medication to help move the bowel-clearing process along better. This process results in forceful and frequent episodes of diarrhea that may or may not be accompanied by bloating, cramping, nausea, abdominal discomfort, and vomiting. The taste of these laxative mixtures may be bitter and unpleasant, so it is often recommended for the patient to mix it with drinks or flavorings for easier consumption.

Read more to learn about how the procedure itself works next.