Colonoscopy prep is the time that leads up to the actual process of "colonoscopy'. Since this process involves the cleaning of the bowel, this time is very crucial in the entire colonoscopy treatment. It is due to the fact that with the colonoscopy prep, there are chances for the occurrence of problems during the treatment and also proves helpful for the physician in gathering the information needed while performing the treatment and thus various possible problems can be kept at bay. Thus, it must be prepared as directed because its absence would mean unclean bowel which in turn would lead to inaccurate test results.

Usually needed colonoscopy prep time can be anywhere between 10 and 36 hrs depending on the test type one is having. However, the preparation for the process initiates a week before the beginning of the actual procedure. It is one or two days prior to the procedure that one is required to start the bowel cleaning process.

One Week Prior to Colonoscopy Prep


A week before the actual procedure of colonoscopy takes place; one is forbidden the use of any kind of aspirin or NSAIDs (Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) like naproxen, ibuprofen. In addition to this, one is also asked not to drink during this time.

In a case, one is having some medicines, do not stop taking them on their own rather ask for the advice of cardiologist about stopping the use of these medicines 3 to 5 days prior to the colonoscopy.

Be sure that the health care practitioner is well aware in case one has:

* Tendency to develop latex allergy

* Sleep apnea

* Internal defibrillator

* Gone through hip/knee replacement previous year

* Been using Sinemet

Also make sure that the health practitioner is also informed beforehand if one has antibiotics before visiting the dentist or has problem of diabetes.

To be able to view the inside of the colon i.e. large intestine constitutes an important part of colonoscopy. So, if there will be too much food in the intestine; the physician will not have clear view of the colon. To avoid this problem, one is required to take some medicines to clean the bowel which is known as "bowel prep", it is essential for the procedure thought is done usually just a day prior to the procedure.

Other Reminders about Colonoscopy Prep


The most important thing to know is that the medicines one has during the colonoscopy can make him/her absent-minded, so it must be ensured that anyone going through the procedure is accompanied to the healthcare facility so that he/she could listen and note down the important information provided by the health professional. One should not go alone during the process.

After colonoscopy is done one should avoid operating or driving heavy machineries for at least about 24 hours at minimum. Moreover, alcohol consumption and the use of any prescription tranquilizers must also be avoided as the medicines used in the colonoscopy are tend to remain in the system for about a day.

To conclude, to have the colonoscopy done successfully, it is essential to get colonoscopy done properly which proves helpful in knowing about the health of colon.