If you’re taking any medication that causes constipation, check with your doctor whether you need to stop taking it.
To do the colonoscopy, your doctor must have a clear view of your colon, so it’ll need to be empty. To empty it, the doctor will prescribe bowel preparation medication. The medication normally causes frequent bowel motions, sometimes with stomach cramps and diarrhoea.
Your doctor will have their own specific preparation requirements. These instructions should be strictly followed otherwise the procedure may have to be delayed or repeated.
To prevent dehydration and unpleasant side effects such as dizziness, headache and fainting, you need to drink plenty of water and other clear fluids (e.g. juice, cordial, black tea and coffee, clear soup, jelly and/or sports drinks) while taking the bowel preparation medication.
You’ll probably be advised to follow a restricted low-fibre diet for the last 48 hours before the colonoscopy. You’ll also have to fast for at least three hours before the procedure.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Information is provided by HCF in good faith for the convenience of members. It is not an endorsement or recommendation of any form of treatment nor is it a substitute for medical advice, and you should rely on the advice of your treating doctors in relation to all matters concerning your health. Every effort has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information, however HCF takes no responsibility for any injury, loss, damage or other consequences of the use of this information.