Preparations
Proper preparation for a colonoscopy is crucial, or it may not yield accurate results, or may even have to be rescheduled altogether!
Before a Colonoscopy
1 week before the procedure:
Around a week before the procedure, or otherwise advised by your doctor, you may be asked to stop taking certain medications that you are currently on. This may include certain blood-thinning supplements or iron supplements.
Other medications may continue to be taken, but at a modified or specified dose/timing.
This is why it is important to let your doctor know right from the start what medications you are currently on.
For 2-3 days leading up to the procedure:
- Embark on a low-fibre, low-residue diet(e.g. white rice, white bread, noodles, egg, fish, chicken)
- No whole-grain or high-fibre food allowed during this time(e.g. brown rice, oats, fruits and vegetables, red meats, yoghurt)
- In terms of beverages, drink only water, clear soups or light-coloured juice(e.g. apple juice)
- Refrain from drinking milk, creamy soups, malted drinks(e.g. milo), coffee and tea, prune juice, etc.
On the day before or morning of the procedure:
- You will be prescribed a strong laxative to ensure that the colon is thoroughly cleared right before the procedure.
- This is important as the doctor has to be able to fully visualise the entire length of the colon.
After a Colonoscopy
- You will be discharged on the same day. Ensure that you have a trusted family member or friend to accompany you home, as you may be feeling drowsy from the effects of sedation. You should not drive.
- You may experience some bloating and mild discomfort which should subside within a few days.
- In the unlikely event of severe pain, heavy bleeding or vomiting, seek medical attention immediately.
Knowing what to expect and prepare for will make the whole process a smooth-sailing one. Speak to us if you have any further queries.