Prepping For A Colonoscopy: What To Do The Night Before
The night before your colonoscopy can be a stressful time, but it is important to be prepared to make the experience go as smoothly and comfortably as possible. Here are some tips for what you should do the night before your colonoscopy procedure.
Avoid Eating Food After Midnight
Your colonoscopy will likely take place in the early morning, so make sure you avoid eating food after midnight the night before. This will help ensure that your colon is clear, which is important so that the doctor can see all of the areas of your colon during the procedure.
Keep in mind that any food you eat after midnight can cause disruptions to the procedure. That's because the food will likely settle and create an obstruction when the doctor is trying to pass the colonoscope through your colon.
You might want to eat a light snack before midnight if you are feeling hungry. However, avoid foods that may be difficult to digest, such as fatty or fried foods. These types of food can take longer to digest and may still be present in your stomach or intestines during the procedure.
Drink the Colon Prep Solution
Your doctor may prescribe a specialty solution that needs to be taken the night before your colonoscopy. This liquid is usually referred to as a colon prep solution, and it helps clean out the colon before the procedure.
The liquid loosens fecal matter inside your colon and creates a clear path for the doctor to see during the procedure. Be sure to follow your doctor's instructions closely when taking this prep solution. This includes drinking all of the contents, as well as additional fluids, to ensure it is all flushed out of your system properly.
After taking the prep solution, stay close to a restroom. The liquid can cause you to have frequent bowel movements, so it is best to be near a toilet just in case.
Wear Comfortable Clothing
You should wear comfortable clothing on the night before your colonoscopy. Choose loose-fitting garments that are easy to take on and off when you need to use the restroom. Avoid wearing tight jeans or other clothing that may restrict your movement.
Also, avoid wearing clothes with restrictive waistbands, which can make it difficult to move during the procedure. Instead, opt for sweatpants or yoga pants with an elastic waistband. This type of clothing can be more comfortable and help you feel relaxed when it's time for your procedure.
Contact a local doctor to learn more about this topic.
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