A colonoscopy is among the most common and effective colon cancer screening tests to detect and prevent colorectal or colon cancer. It is highly capable of spotting tiny colon cancers while they’re still treatable and before they’re had the chance to spread to surrounding tissue and other body parts. A colonoscopy can likewise spot and remove small growths or polyps that could turn into cancer.

Here at Brookhaven Gastroenterology Associates in Suffolk County, NY, a colonoscopy is just one test that we use for colon cancer screening. Your doctor may recommend more depending on your risk factors and specific case.

What Does a Colonoscopy Prep Involve?

The key to a successful colonoscopy is proper flushing of the colon. Done incorrectly, lesions and polyps might be missed, the procedure might take longer than normal and raise the risk of developing complications, or the procedure might have to be repeated. While the exact instructions for colonoscopy prep will vary from one doctor to another, in general, the prep will involve diet and bowel prep.

Basic Colonoscopy Prep Diet Guidelines

Several days prior to the colonoscopy, eat a low-fiber diet without seeds, nuts, whole grains, veggies, and fruits. On the day before, consume clear liquids such as clear soups or broths, white grape/apple juice, tea, or black coffee (minus the creamer), and popsicles. Don’t eat anything with purple, blue, or red dye. Do not eat any solid foods. During the day of the procedure, stick to clear liquids, but don’t drink or eat anything two hours prior to the colonoscopy.

Essential Colonoscopy Bowel Prep Tips

Primarily, this step should be done the night or afternoon before the procedure and will involve drinking a liquid to help trigger diarrhea and consequently, clear your bowel. Take note that your specific bowel instructions for this colon cancer screening test would depend on what your doctor in Suffolk County, NY, recommends and past colon prep experiences you have (if applicable).

To make this step as comfortable and hassle-free, stay near your bathroom and wear loose clothing. Make sure to have skin-calming products like Desitin, Vaseline, or petroleum jelly on hand and some medicated wipes because you will be experiencing high-velocity and high-volume diarrhea. Read all the colonoscopy preparation instructions and call your doctor if you have any questions. Lastly, arrange for the privacy and time you will need to go through your prep properly and comfortably.
 

For Questions or Information on Colon Cancer Screening and Prep, Call Us

Dial (631) 289-0300 to schedule your consultation with one of our gastroenterologists here at Brookhaven Gastroenterology Associates in Suffolk County, NY.