Colonoscopy is used to diagnose and treat a number of diseases like colorectal cancer and colitis Roanoke.
Roanoke endoscopy professionals also use colonoscopy as a tool in diagnosing patients with ulcerative colitis Roanoke. Roanoke endoscopy provides patients with instructions to properly prepare for a colonoscopy. Following a doctor’s instructions right before the test is important, but watching what is consumed in the days leading up to test prep can make the process easier.
What Goes in Must Come Out
Most colonoscopy prep procedures begin 24-48 hours before the actual procedure. During this time, patients stop eating solid foods and consume only clear liquids. Water, broth, coffee, tea, popsicles and flavored gelatin are all good choices. Patients should stay away from dairy products and anything that is red or purple- such as grapes or grape-flavored liquids. But even before the clear liquid stage, watching the diet will make the colon cleansing process more comfortable. An easily digestible diet that includes rice, potatoes, turkey breast, chicken breast and applesauce can help.
Patients should choose foods that are easy on the stomach or that one might consume after an intestinal bug. The more careful a person is in the days leading up to the actual prep, the easier colon cleansing will be. Some experts recommend stopping the consumption of all red meat at least five days before the test to ease gastrointestinal stress during cleansing. By this stage in life adults know their digestive systems pretty well. Staying away from things that make the GI tract angry before a colonoscopy is a good idea.
Preparing for the Prep
As part of colonoscopy prep, doctors provide patients with a prescription for a medication to help cleanse the colon. These types of laxatives are strong and thorough. One option requires drinking a gallon of liquid. If there is concern about this process based on the experiences of others, doctors can provide an alternative. There are other products that are less difficult to consume that produce the desired results in the same amount of time. When consuming the large amount of liquid, mixing in flavored drink mixes like Crystal Light is often permissible. It makes the liquid much more palatable and easier to get down.
Get It Done
Whatever the cleansing method, adults should get a first colonoscopy at or around age 50. According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in men and women in the United States. This test saves lives.
