Colonoscopy is a crucial procedure that can help your doctor diagnose issues within your large intestines. It involves using a flexible tube with an attached camera to identify problems like tumors, ulcers, bleeding, or inflammation in the lining of your colon. The colonoscopy Austin specialist can also employ the procedure to take tissue samples for lab testing. However, several factors affect the success and accuracy of the procedure. You ought to cleanse your colon before your treatment increases your success chances. Here is what you can do.
Avoid Certain Medications
If your doctor has recommended a colonoscopy, it is crucial to discuss your current treatments to help you know which supplements and medicines you must stop using. If you are on iron supplements, Aleve, Motrin, or sulindac, you might need to stop using them for about seven days after your treatment. Such medications are known to increase the risks of bleeding during a colonoscopy. Also, discuss your aspirin regimen if you take the medications due to a stroke or heart attack. Your provider will help you know if you should skip the medicines or recommend alternative treatments with fewer effects on colonoscopy.
Pause Blood Thinners
If you are on any blood thinners, it is vital to let your doctor know. They recommend you stop using them for about five days before your colonoscopy appointment. But do not stop any prescription medications without the consent of your doctor. It is essential to understand how discontinuing your medications will affect your current treatment.
Avoid Certain Foods
Some foods are unsuitable for a colonoscopy, especially about three days before your appointment. Your doctor might ask you to eliminate seeds, nuts, and popcorn from your diet since such foods can be lodged in your large intestine, interfering with the results of your colonoscopy. Your provider might recommend a low residue diet for about two days before the colonoscopy. This includes foods low in fiber, such as chicken, eggs, fish, clear fruit juice, and soup. Avoid all vegetables, resins, meat besides chicken and fish, and dried fruits.
Drink Plenty of Water
It is essential to drink plenty of clear fluids when preparing for a colonoscopy. Many people have experienced dehydration during colonoscopy, but the situation is avoidable. You should drink about sixteen 8 oz cups of water a day as a man and about eleven 8 oz cups of water as a woman. You can tell if you are getting enough water by looking at the color of your urine. Dark urine indicates that you are dehydrated, while straw-colored urine means you are well hydrated. If you feel thirsty, your body is communicating to you that you need more fluids.
Follow Special Instructions from Your Doctor
Your doctor will send you home with a list of special instructions to help you get ready for your colonoscopy. Please adhere to every instruction thoroughly and call your doctor for clarification where you do not understand. You might require special instructions if you are diabetic to help you monitor your blood sugar levels during your preparation period. Also, you might be required to flush your system before your procedure to cleanse your colon. Also, remember to make final preparations on the day of your appointment, including wearing loose, comfortable clothes and leaving your valuables like jewelry at home.
If you need a colonoscopy for cancer screening or diagnosis for other complications within your large intestines, get in touch with the Lone Star Gastroenterology colonoscopy specialist for help. Calls to schedule your appointment online.