Colonoscopy is an invaluable diagnostic method, however, in order for this examination to really contribute to the diagnostic process, it is necessary to meet a certain condition. Above all, it is necessary to observe dietary restrictions a few days before the examination, as well as to start taking bowel cleansing agents on the day before colonoscopy.
Well, relatively large amounts of colonic cleansing fluids need to be drunk - in the case of the most popular and most commonly used preparation in Poland, they reach 3 or even 4 litres (larger amounts of fluid are used in people with higher body weight). The largest portions of the solution are taken in the evening (from 6 to 8 pm) preceding the colonoscopy, while smaller portions are taken by the patient in the morning before the examination itself. As different gastrointestinal cleansing preparations are available, the specific amounts of fluid required vary. However, one rule of thumb remains the same for the various preparations: it is recommended that no more than four hours elapse between the end of the cleansers and the colonoscopy itself.
What to expect from the intake of bowel cleansing fluids is certainly quite obvious. These preparations lead to the patient visiting the toilet extremely frequently. This can be inconvenient, yet it is definitely necessary - good preparation for colonoscopy is a basic condition for the examination to actually contribute something to the diagnosis of the patient's condition.
Other elements of preparation for colonoscopy
When making an appointment for colonoscopy, it is a good idea to mention to the doctor the medications you are taking - it may be that some of them will have to be discontinued before the examination (this applies particularly to anticoagulants).
Why is proper preparation for colonoscopy so important?
According to statistics, up to almost a third of patients who undergo colonoscopy may not be adequately prepared for this examination. Such a high number indicates that it is indeed worth talking about how preparation for colonoscopy should take place. A good bowel cleansing is ultimately required for the doctor performing the examination to actually see the inside of the digestive tract.
Preparation for a colonoscopy can certainly be cumbersome, but it is worth following the recommendations for the process. If the intestines are not adequately cleaned, the examination may have to be repeated in a short period of time, so if you already have to undergo this examination (and especially if the prospect of colonoscopy makes you feel stressed), make sure that the examination is not disturbed by such mundane factors as inadequate intestinal preparation on the first attempt.
