Why Colonoscopy Prep is Important

Colonoscopies are an extremely important diagnostic tool gastroenterologists use to detect and prevent colorectal cancer. By examining your colon, gastroenterologists can determine if you are at risk of colorectal cancer and recommend preventative treatments. While colonoscopy is a common procedure for adults aged 45-75, people experiencing specific symptoms or increased risk factors may require more frequent or earlier screenings. 

Following your gastroenterologist's preparation guidelines is extremely important before having a colonoscopy. Thorough preparation ensures a clear view of the colon’s lining. Removing stool, debris, or particles from your colon allows your gastroenterologist to assess your GI systems thoroughly and provide an accurate diagnosis for any findings. Here, we will take a closer look at why colonoscopy prep is essential and what steps patients must take to clear out their colon. 

The Importance of Colon Prep

When debris, stool, or other particles obstruct colonoscopy scopes, gastroenterologists cannot assess the colon accurately, increasing the chances of misdiagnosis or overlooking potential indicators. Effective colonoscopy prep is crucial for several reasons, including:

Accurate Diagnosis: A clean colon allows gastroenterologists to examine the lining for polyps, ulcers, inflammation, or other abnormalities. When the colon is not clean, it can often be difficult to distinguish an abnormality from a leftover piece of stool or GI particles. 

Easy Polyp Removal: Small growths on the colon lining, known as polyps, can indicate precancerous conditions. If polyps are detected during a colonoscopy, it is extremely common that they be removed to minimize the risks of turning into colorectal cancer. 

Patient Comfort: Adequate bowel preparation can also minimize the discomfort a patient might experience during a colonoscopy. A clean colon reduces the risk of complications, such as perforation, when or if navigating obstructions. 

Common Colonoscopy Preparation Methods

After your consultation, your gastroenterologist will provide instructions and guidelines for preparing your bowels for a colonoscopy. Colonoscopy prep involves using a series of laxatives, fasting, and adjusting medications. It ensures that your colon is clean and clear for a successful procedure. Colonoscopy prep typically requires:

Adjusting Medication: If you are taking medication, such as aspirin, for heart issues, it is generally recommended that you continue taking them. However, if you’re taking aspirin simply for preventative measures, gastroenterologists recommend stopping it one week before your colonoscopy. 

Fasting and Maintaining a Clear Diet: Three days before your procedure, you will be asked to stop eating raw vegetables, seeds, nuts, and popcorn and stop taking fiber supplements until after your procedure. Eliminating these items from your diet ensures that nothing gets left behind in the colon. During fasting, you must also implement a clear liquid diet, eliminating all red, purple, or orange-colored foods. Because red, purple, or orange foods mimic the color of blood in the colon, minimizing the presence of these foods and colors in your diet helps to ensure an accurate diagnosis. You should not consume anything by mouth four hours before your procedure, including gum or mints. 

Taking Laxatives and Gas Relief Medication: Your gastroenterologist may instruct you to take laxatives and anti-gas medication to relieve gas and discomfort, expedite bowel movements, and cleanse the colon.

Drinking Colonoscopy Prep Solution: Colonoscopy prep solutions are prescribed to patients to drink the evening before their procedure. The prep solution typically consists of Polyethylene Glycol 3350 mixed with a clear drink mix and must be consumed at specific timeframes prescribed by your gastroenterologist. 

Ensuring Successful and Comfortable Colonoscopy Preparation

Per your gastroenterologist’s prep instructions, there are a few things that you can do to make preparation a little more comfortable. Frequent trips to the bathroom, scheduling issues, and the desire to eat your favorite foods are common inconveniences during colonoscopy prep. However, with adequate planning and comfort measures, you can feel better after your colonoscopy. Some things you can do are:

Stay Hydrated: While solid food is prohibited during colonoscopy preparations, staying hydrated through clear liquids helps to avoid dehydration and delivers some nutrients. Clear fluids such as water, broths, or clear juices allow your body to receive sugar, protein, and other nutrients.

Plan Ahead: Schedule your colonoscopy for a convenient time frame to avoid scheduling conflicts or stress. Before starting your colonoscopy preparation, ensure you have everything you need — sports drinks, laxatives, and prep solution (typically prescribed by your gastroenterologist). You must also communicate with a trusted family member or friend who can pick you up from your procedure and take you home. 

Wear Comfortable and Easy-to-Remove Clothing: Because the preparation procedures require the use of laxatives, wearing comfortable and easy-to-remove clothing ensures that you can relieve yourself quickly and efficiently and prevents accidents. 

Communicate with Your Doctor: If you are experiencing any other side effects or symptoms of illness before or during your colonoscopy prep, communicate with your doctor to determine whether or not you are healthy enough to proceed with your colonoscopy procedure. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact your doctor or 911 if it is an emergency. 

Dr. Ernest Castro — Colorado’s Choice For Colonoscopy

If you are aged 45-75 and have not had a colonoscopy, you must schedule a time to get screened. Regular colonoscopy screening is crucial for early detection and prevention of colorectal cancer. The earlier you get screened, the sooner doctors can detect and treat signs of cancer before they worsen and progress. Following proper procedures ensures a smooth and beneficial colonoscopy, allowing gastroenterologists to provide the most accurate screening results.

As Colorado’s top choice for gastrointestinal endoscopy, Dr. Ernest Castro and his medical team deliver the highest quality of care with a mission of putting patients first. Dr. Castro puts integrity, honesty, and an emphasis on proper bedside manners at the forefront, ensuring that all patients receive personalized and comfortable gastrointestinal care. Dr. Castro and his team use advanced technology to develop personalized treatment plans for each patient, ensuring a smooth and comfortable colonoscopy experience.

For more information or to request an appointment, visit our website or call (720) 605-7094 today!