The exact bowel prep instructions depend on the type of bowel prep your doctor has chosen for you. If you are currently taking medications, make sure to ask your doctor whether there is a need to stop them. While most medications can be continued, some medications can interfere with the examination, like arthritis, anti-inflammatory and blood thinner meds as well as insulin and iron products. Depending on your doctor’s advice, you may either stop them for the time being or reduce their dosage. If in case you forget to take your medication for bowel prep, inform your doctor about it immediately. Consume more fluids than you usually do but be sure not to drink anything two hours before the colonoscopy. While you can have gelatin and ice pops, you have to stay away from colored liquids as they can discolor the lining of the colon and make it difficult for your doctor to examine it. Furthermore, ensure that you stay hydrated during the entire process. One day before the colonoscopy, you will need to switch to clear liquids. Stick to beverages that you can see through such as apple juice and sports drinks. This may include eggs, lean meat, white bread, well-cooked vegetables without skin and fruit without skin. Avoid whole grains, seeds, nuts and raw fruits and vegetables. Your doctor will recommend low-fiber foods that are easily digestible. Here are a few essential steps for a good bowel prep.Ī few days before you take the bowel-cleansing agent, you will need to tweak your diet. Generally, you will start preparing for your colonoscopy three to four days prior to the procedure. Other than examining your medical history, your doctor will also consider personal preferences and costs to help him/her identify the right bowel prep for you. Make sure to check with your medical insurance if they can cover your bowel prep.Ī clean and empty bowel makes for a more effective and efficient procedure. It is also crucial to inform your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. This is the stage where you have to disclose any current and previous medical conditions to your doctor, including high blood pressure, history of bowel obstruction, diseases in the heart, kidney or liver as well as allergies to medications. Your doctor will look at your medical condition to help him/her determine the type of prep that will suit you best. How does your doctor determine the right bowel prep for you? ![]() It comes in a tablet form.Īs long as the right type of bowel prep is followed, this process is generally safe for most patients. ![]() Sodium phosphate – requires a prescription and taken orally.This is best for patients with kidney, heart and liver diseases. It comes in a powder form and should be mixed with water before use. ![]() Polyethylene glycol – requires a prescription and taken orally.Two of the most commonly prescribed bowel prep medications are: As for the medication, there are different bowel-cleansing agents available and your doctor will recommend the best one for your requirements. The medication is taken orally and can come in a form of liquid, powder, or tablet. The diet consists of low-fiber foods and clear liquids. There are different types of bowel prep and your doctor will recommend the type of bowel preparation that works best for you. Bowel prep consists of two parts: diet and drinking the bowel-cleansing agent (laxative). Your doctor may also need to repeat the exam and this could mean doing the prep all over again. Otherwise, potential complications could be missed. If your colon lining is clear of solid and liquid, it allows your doctor to see any abnormalities – such as polyps and lesions – that may be present in your bowel. Although cleansing your bowel may not give you a pleasant experience, it is important that you complete the bowel prep as instructed by your doctor. Cleansing the colon before a colonoscopy is called bowel preparation or “prep.” One of the keys to a successful colonoscopy is a clean bowel.
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