How to prepare for a colonoscopy

A colonoscopy is a form of colon cancerscreening that is done on your colon and rectum to determine whether you have any cancerous or precancerous cells growing. Once the cells have been found they can either be removed or a biopsy done on them. A detailed cleansing of the colon is usually done before the screening is done and more often patients have to be sedated. You can have one done at Los Angeles colonoscopy lab that is always open to assist you.

Before a colonoscopy is done on you by a GI specialist, you may be required to:

1.      You will be required not to eat any solid foods. Your doctor will recommend that you have a diet of only fluids. These fluids have to be only clear liquids like water and tea. You are strongly advised against drinking milk or sodas and also to steer clear of red liquids that might be confused for presence of blood in your colon and rectum. When you are going for the test, you should have eaten anything 6 hours before the test.

2.      You will be advised to take a laxative in order to clear your colon and rectum of any stools that are present. Remember that the colon has to be cleansed very well in order to remove any impurities that will interfere with the colonoscopy. It is preferable if you can be able to take the laxative the night and morning before going for your test. This will see to it that your colon is cleared of any fecal content in it.

3.      You might be required to use an enema kit in order to cleanse your bowel. The lab where the screening is scheduled to take place may give you an over the counter kit that will aid you to clear out your colon. You might have to take it overnight or a few hours before the screening.

4.      It is advisable to let your doctor know if you are on any medications. This medication, if they have iron supplements of if they thin the blood will interfere with the screening and result it tests that are inconsistent. You might need a period of up to one week of not taking these drugs to ensure that your system is completely clear of them. An alternative method for treating you will have to be found during this period before your Los Angeles colonoscopy screening.