Colonoscopy is a type of procedure or test, in which the condition inside the large intestine (colon and rectum) is examined. This is a test which is used by doctors to check the symptoms of gastrointestinal, stomach ache, rectal bleeding or changes in the behavior of the bowel.

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Its main use is to test large intestine. Colonoscopy is not a terrible and painful process. Usually, colonoscopy is used to treat colorectal cancer. This disease mostly affects individuals over 40- 50 years of age. Abnormal tissue growth can be removed by colonoscopy before turning it into cancer, which is called polyps.

What is a Colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a procedure which allows a doctor to examine the entire colon or signs of colorectal cancer and colon polyps, which are growths that can turn into cancer in 3-5 years if left untreated. A colonoscopy is the best colorectal cancer screening test and the only screening test which can help to prevent cancer.

What is the Procedure of Colonoscopy?

In a colonoscopy, the doctor inserts a thin, flexible tube with a tiny camera called a colonoscope through the rectum and into the colon. The camera on the colonoscope transfers an image of the inside of the colon to a screen. The doctor can analyze the entire colon using the image on the screen.

If the doctor finds a colon polyp, he or she removes it before it has a chance to turn into cancer. Colonoscopies are so successful at preventing colorectal cancer that some people only need to have one every 10 years.

What are the Tips for an Easier Colonoscopy?

There are 6 tips for an easier colonoscopy:

1. Plan Your Prep

The doctor is the best source of information about how to get ready. When you schedule the procedure, you’ll get instructions. Read them over well before your appointment, and call your doctor if you have any questions.

Manage your schedule for the evening before and the day of the colonoscopy, and make plans for someone to go with you the day of the colonoscopy.

Your list may include:

• Low-fiber food

• Sports drinks, juices, and broths

• Moist wipes

• Diaper cream

2. Tweak Your Diet

Help the cleansing process by eating light 3 or 4 days before the procedure. Doctors usually suggested low-fiber foods that are easy to digest and leave your system quickly.

You can have:

1. White bread, pasta, and rice

2. Well-cooked vegetables without skin

3. Fruit without skin or seeds

4. Lean meat, chicken, or fish

5. Eggs

Don’t eat:

1. Seeds, nuts, or popcorn

2. Fatty foods

3. Tough meat

4. Whole grains

5. Raw vegetables

6. Fruit with seeds or peel

7. Corn, broccoli, cabbage, beans, or peas

You should stop taking vitamins or other supplements. Consult the doctor whether and when you should stop taking any prescription medicines you use regularly, and any over-the-counter anti-inflammatory or blood thinning meds you may use.

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3. The Fast

The day before the procedure you can’t eat anything solid.you can only consume clear (see-through) liquids. It is very important to stay hydrated all the time by drinking lots of clear liquids, such as sports drinks, clear juice like apple and white grape, and clear broth. Soda is fine, and so are coffee and tea, but without cream.

The dyes can discolor the lining of the colon and make it harder for the doctor to see. Always keep in mind to avoid alcohol and drinks you can’t see through, like milk or orange juice. Keep in mind 2-4 hours before the procedure, be sure not to drink or eat anything.

4. Stay close to the Bathroom

Once you start your prep, bowel movements can happen suddenly you’ll want to stay close to your bathroom. Try to wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing and make sure you have things to help you pass the time such as books, magazines, a tablet with your favorite movies or apps or a crossword puzzle.

5. Share your concerns with the Doctor

If you have any problem with your prep, share it with the doctor. In addition to discussing how a proper prep can help you to get the most benefit from your colonoscopy, the doctor can help you to feel less anxious about the whole process.

Which foods can you eat 3 days before a colonoscopy?

There are a few food items which you can easily eat 3 days before a colonoscopy:

1. White bread, pasta, and rice

2. Well-cooked vegetables without skin

3. Fruit without skin or seeds

4. Lean meat, chicken, or fish

5. Eggs

Is Colonoscopy Painful?

During a colonoscopy, a long flexible tube called colonoscopy is inserted into the rectum. However calmative and pain medications are used to minimize discomfort during a colonoscopy, it is possible to have a colonoscopy without pain medication or sedatives.

How Long will it Take to Recover from a Colonoscopy?

After a colonoscopy, most of the people are back to work and “normal life” within 24 hours, or after the sedation wears off. It is suggested to abstain from flying for 48 hours after the procedure.

What Percentage of Colonoscopy Found Polyps?

A colonoscopy is a very reliable way to prevent and detect colon cancer.  Polyps found in at least 20- 25% of men and women over the age of 50 through colonoscopies. Most colon cancer begins as precancerous polyps detecting and removing these polyps are key to preventing cancer.

Conclusion

As we have discussed in the above blog 4 Tips for an Easier Colonoscopy and its procedure, foods, recovery time. The best way to treat this is a surgery which is conducted by the doctor and the healthy diet is also very helpful to manage your health.

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