If you’re a middle-aged adult from 40 to 50 years old, your doctor has probably started talking to you about getting a colonoscopy. Colonoscopies definitely aren’t most people’s idea of a good time, but they can help detect early signs of cancer and improve survivability. In this post, we’ll share some tips and tricks for your upcoming colonoscopy, and answer a few common questions: what should you not do before a colonoscopy, is a colonoscopy a painful procedure, and how long does a colonoscopy usually take?
Why Are Colonoscopies So Important?
“The death rate from colorectal cancer has been dropping in both men and women for several decades.” - Cancer.org
Simply put, colonoscopies aren’t fun, but they save lives – according to a CDC study, about 68% of colorectal cancer patients had better outcomes due to early detection and colon cancer screening practices like colonoscopies. Medical professionals recommend starting detection practices at the age of 50 (40 if there is a family history of colorectal cancer).
Tips for Preparing for Your Colonoscopy
#1: Follow Your Doctor’s Orders
This is a medical procedure, so you’ll probably be taking this pointer anyway. However, you’d be surprised how many patients have to cancel their scheduled colonoscopy because they didn’t follow the instructions properly. Your doctor will give you detailed, step-by-step instructions to help you prepare properly for your scoping procedure.
These instructions will be on a timeline, and you may be uncomfortable for the duration of your preparation – taking time off or working from home is your best option during this time.
#2: Stick With Clear Liquids
Your preparation instructions might say that drinking sports beverages is okay – and it is. However, keep in mind that these drinks have dyes in them. When your bowels are completely empty, this can be a bit alarming! Drinking clear liquids will help you avoid any panic attacks while on the toilet. Your doctor will also probably ask that you switch to just water in the hours directly before your colonoscopy, so be cognizant of that, too.
#3: Don’t Go Overboard Before (Or After!)
Fasting isn’t hard on the body, but it does change how we react to food when it re-enters after a period of abstinence. Furthermore, eating unhealthily before you fast for your colonoscopy will make it harder to fast, emotionally and physically.
Here at the Colorectal Clinic of Tampa Bay, we recommend eating a large, healthy meal with plenty of nutrients and fiber before you begin your fast and preparation instructions. This will help you stay energized and will also help your bowels clear out easier.
Bonus Tip: Don’t splurge or eat an unhealthy meal after your colonoscopy either – high-fat foods will be a shock to your system and can cause diarrhea, abdominal pain, and cramping during digestion. Ease back into your routine with some simple, healthy foods – like whole wheat toast or raw fruits and veggies.
#4: Schedule Your Colonoscopy Early
For some people, fasting is incredibly difficult. If you’ve never fasted before and you’re unsure how well you’ll be able to hold off from eating on the day of your colonoscopy, schedule it as early as you possibly can – even if it means taking a day off of work that you didn’t want to take off. Trust us, you’ll be happy you got in early.
Common Questions About Colonoscopies
We hear many different questions from patients here at the Colorectal Clinic of Tampa Bay, so let’s go over some of the most common ones here for you:
What Should You Not Do Before a Colonoscopy?
Per our tips above, do not overeat or eat an unhealthy meal before your colonoscopy prep begins. You should also not disregard your doctor’s preparation instructions – you may have to reschedule.
Is a Colonoscopy a Painful Procedure?
Some people are more sensitive to pain than others. Generally speaking, colonoscopies don’t hurt while they happen because you will be sedated. Afterwards, you may be sore, but there won’t be any intense or acute pain.
How Long Does a Colonoscopy Usually Take?
A routine colonoscopy that doesn’t need biopsies and goes smoothly only takes about an hour, maximum. If your doctor needs to biopsy any tissue, it might take longer – up to two hours. You’ll also need about an hour to start recovering from your sedatives, but it can be up to 12 hours before you feel completely normal again.
If you need to schedule a routine colonoscopy here in Tampa Bay, don’t hesitate to reach out to the team here at the Colorectal Clinic of Tampa Bay. Our experienced technicians and doctors can help make the process as quick and painless as possible!