Colon cancer is a cancer of the large intestine that forms in the lining of the colon. It may begin as a small cluster of cells called polyps. While some polyps are benign, they can grow and become cancerous.
In the United States, it is one of the deadliest forms of cancer, but can be highly treatable if detected early. A colonoscopy is the best screening tool and while scary and uncomfortable, it may very well save your life! Here are a few tips to help your colonoscopy preparation go as smoothly as possible.
Obtain Your Colonoscopy Prep Materials Early
Make sure you receive your colonoscopy prep instructions and medication well before the date of the procedure. Read the instructions completely and call your physician if you have questions. This will allow your medical team to have sufficient time to respond. There may not be time for your provider to answer questions asked a day or two before the procedure.
Prepare Your Bathroom for Prep
Once you begin to prepare for the colonoscopy, you will need to be in close proximity to a bathroom. There are several items you can purchase to help make the experience more pleasant. Consider using double-ply, soft toilet paper that will be gentle on your skin. There are several options for moist wipes that can ease rectal discomfort including standard baby wipes or medicated options such as Preparation H brand wipes that are infused with aloe and witch hazel. These can be purchased at most drug stores. Once the rectal area is clean and dry, consider application of Vaseline or coconut oil to soothe irritation.
Adjust Your Diet
About three days prior to the procedure, begin eating low-fiber foods and stop taking any fiber supplements. Foods to avoid include nuts, seeds, fruit with skins or seeds (berries, beans, corn, peas, popcorn etc.) For a full list of foods review the low-fiber diet chart. The day before the colonoscopy, start a clear-liquid diet. Options that are OK are: water, tea, black coffee, clear juices, clear broths, Jello and sports drinks (avoid orange and red flavors).
Space out the Prep
Consuming the full amount laxative drink may seem daunting. To make it easier, drink 8 ounces every 10-15 minutes. Try to drink quickly rather than taking sips. For a more pleasant experience, consider drinking the mixture cold and through a straw to help it go down easier .
With just a few items of preparation, what may seem like a scary procedure can become an easy task. Better safe than sorry! If you’re 45 and haven’t completed your colonoscopy yet, eliminate the preventable risks and schedule one day.
