10 Tips for a Stress Free Colonoscopy Prep

1. Make sure you receive your colonoscopy prep instructions well before you procedure date, and read them completely as soon as you get them. Call your physician with any and all questions.

2. Arrange for a driver. If you work, take the necessary time off, as you will be unable to drive or work the day of your procedure.

3. Obtain all the preparation medication and supplies. This includes filling the physician’s prescription, purchasing the clear liquids, including broths, juices, teas, Gatorades and ices.

4. On the days leading up to your procedure, drink plenty of clear liquids and decrease your fiber intake. This will make the prep easier, as well as you keep hydrated.

5. On the day before the procedure, when you begin the clear liquid diet, do not skimp on fluids. The more you drink, the better the prep will work, and the better you will feel. Alternate between broth, gelatins, juices and ices. The fluid intake will also keep you feeling full.

6. Clear your schedule and be at home when it is time to start your prep. If you have children or aging parents who need attention, have someone else be available to help them while you’re indisposed.

7. Have a good book, iPad, or other media to keep yourself occupied as you will be spending a great deal of time in the restroom. If possible, keep one restroom designated for you during the prep process.

8. While drinking the prep solution, do sit in a chair; move about. This helps prevent bloating and nausea. If you do become bloated and feel nauseous, pause during the drinking until the sensations passes, and then continue.

9. To tolerate the aftertaste of some of the prep solutions, drinking the solution chilled or mixing it with Crystal Light or Snapple may help. Please consult your physician first.

10. For coffee and tea drinkers, coffee and tea are permitted, but black with NO milk or creamer. Having caffeine can prevent the headache that come from the withdrawal.

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