Colonoscopy General Questions

Colonoscopy

• Why is a colonoscopy performed?

  Colonoscopy is typically performed to investigate symptoms such as abdominal pain, bleeding, or changes in bowel habits. It can also be used for screening colorectal cancer.

• How should I prepare for a colonoscopy?

  Preparation usually involves dietary restrictions and taking a prescribed laxative to clear the bowel. Specific written instructions will be provided to you at the time of scheduling. Do not eat food on the preparation day, as you are only allowed to take in clear fluids and liquids including soup broth, and certain Jello.

• Is a colonoscopy painful?

  At West GTA, all patients receive deep sedation by a dedicated doctor providing sedation.

• How long does a colonoscopy take?

  Generally 10-20 minutes

• How often should I have a colonoscopy?

  The frequency depends on your individual risk factors, family history, and previous results. Your doctor will provide recommendations based on your specific situation.

• Can I drink alcohol on the preparation day prior to the colonoscopy?

  Do not drink any alcoholic beverages prior to your procedure, since they can cause dehydration.

• Why do I have to avoid red liquids?

  The red coloring can persist in the colon and potentially look like blood.

• Can I wear dentures?

  Yes, you may wear your dentures. However, you may be asked to remove them prior to the procedure.

• I was given a split-dose preparation this time, why can’t I drink the preparation all at once?

  Simply put, splitting the prep does a better job at cleaning out the colon, specifically the right side of the colon. The better the clean out, the better the results. Studies show that when the colon is clean, more polyps are detected and more cancers prevented. We really do understand how inconvenient a split prep may be, but it gives us the best chance at finding polyps and preventing colon cancer.

• What if I get nauseous or vomit with the preparation?

  It is important that you drink all of the cleansing solution if possible. Without a clean bowel, the doctor will not be able to see the inside of your colon to complete the examination. If you experience nausea, wait 15 minutes and resume drinking slowly. If you vomit, wait 45 minutes and begin drinking the solution again. You can also try sipping the solution through a straw, use popsicles to numb the taste-buds, or use Gravol if needed.

• I started drinking the preparation, but I haven’t had any bowel movements yet?

  Continue to drink all of the cleansing solution if possible. Most people have a bowel movement after an hour, though some patients may take two hours or longer.

• Once I start having loose stools, can I stop the preparation?

  No, continue to drink all of the cleansing solution if possible. You may have solid stool higher in the colon that still needs to be eliminated.

• I am completing the colonoscopy for investigation of diarrhea. Do I really need to drink the preparation?

  Yes, drink all of the cleansing solution if possible. Your entire colon is approximately six feet long, and it must be emptied for your physician to see the clearly. Even if you have diarrhea, there is sometimes a thick bile liquid coating the colon that needs to be washed away prior to the colonoscopy.

• What can I do if my bottom gets sore or irritated from the preparation?

  Avoid rubbing when cleaning the area. Instead, gently pat with a wet washcloth or moist baby wipes. You may also apply Vaseline. Were clear enough that you were able to see the bottom of the toilet, you should be fine.

• What do I do if I take blood thinners, Ozempic, or insulin-based medications?

  Some prescription and over-the-counter medications can reduce the body’s ability to form blood clots. Taking them prior to a colonoscopy procedure may increase the risk of bleeding if a polyp needs to be removed. The decision to stop any medication is always based on an estimate of the risk of having a significant medical problem during the short time that you are off of them compared to the risk of bleeding complications from the procedure.

  Please speak with your physician or the clinic staff at scheduling if you are taking:

  • Coumadin
  • Pradaxa/Xarelto/Eliquis/Lixiana or any other blood thinner that you are aware of.
  • Plavix (clopidogrel) or Brilinta 
  • Daily aspirin
  • Ozempic or similar medication
  • Insulin

• What do I do if I have my menstrual period on the day of colonoscopy?

  The procedure can still be performed without any issue. It may be easiest to you use a tampon on the procedure day, if possible.