Endoscopy and Colonoscopy: Preparing for the Dual Procedure
Endoscopy and Colonoscopy: Preparing for the Dual Procedure
Going for an endoscopy and colonoscopy at the same time can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to the preparation. While the actual procedures are done under anesthesia and are fairly comfortable, it's the preparation that is truly challenging. My doctor advised me that this procedure should be done every 3 to 5 years, and I can confidently say that the prep is the most difficult part.
What Is a Colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is a test that allows your doctor to examine the inner lining of your large intestine (your rectum and colon). Using a thin, flexible tube called a colonoscope, the doctor can detect issues such as ulcers, polyps, tumors, inflammation, or bleeding. During the procedure, the doctor may take tissue samples for biopsy or remove abnormal growths. It's also an effective screening tool for colon cancer and precancerous polyps, making it a vital part of preventive health care.
While a colonoscopy examines the entire colon, there is also a test called a sigmoidoscopy, which only looks at the lower part of the colon and rectum. However, a full colonoscopy is typically recommended for more comprehensive screening.
The Nightmare of Colon Prep
The preparation for a colonoscopy is notoriously unpleasant. Your colon needs to be completely clear so the doctor can get a good view, which means you'll spend a lot of time in the bathroom during the prep process. This "colon prep" begins the day before the procedure and can last one or two days, depending on your doctor's recommendations.
The colon prep involves drinking a large volume of a solution, such as Colyte, which triggers diarhea to thoroughly clean out your intestines. My prep required drinking 2 liters of Colyte the evening before the procedure and another 2 liters early on the day of the test. It’s a lot to take in, and drinking it every 10 minutes for two hours straight is not easy. The taste and volume can be overwhelming, often causing nausea. Trust me, it helps to slow down and sip through a straw or chill the solution, but even then, the process is a nightmare!
Prepping for the Day of the Procedure
On the day of your colonoscopy, it's important to finish the last 2 liters of the prep at least four hours before your procedure time. You’ll be spending a lot of time in the bathroom during this process, so plan to stay home. Once the prep is complete, you can't eat or drink anything until after the procedure.
For those on medications, especially for conditions like high blood pressure or heart disease, you should take your prescribed medicines with a sip of water on the morning of the procedure. It’s also necessary to have someone drive you to and from the hospital or clinic, as you’ll be under anesthesia and won’t be able to drive yourself.
Post-Procedure Recovery
The procedure itself is typically brief, lasting only 30 minutes to an hour. You’ll wake up in a recovery area and may feel a bit groggy from the anesthesia. Most people are ready to leave within a couple of hours, though you’ll need a day or so to fully bounce back. Make sure to follow any dietary guidelines given to you afterward.
Conclusion
While an endoscopy and colonoscopy are critical for maintaining good health, especially for cancer screening, the prep can truly feel like the most challenging part. The key is to power through it, knowing that it's a small price to pay for the peace of mind and preventive care these procedures offer. As difficult as it is, getting through the colon prep is well worth it for your health in the long run!
For more informaiton visit: https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=hw209694#hw209701
