The colon must be clear of stool and fluids for the colonoscopy to be accurate. Patients are normally asked to do the following during the twenty-four hours preceding the exam:
•Stop taking iron pills or medications containing iron, as iron residues produce a dark black stool, which interferes with a clear view.
•Take laxatives and sometimes enemas.
•Avoid eating solid foods; eat only soft foods.
•Fasting on exam day may be required.
•Drink only clear, non-alcoholic liquids such as black coffee, tea, water, or clear broth and juices.
•Avoid liquids that are red in color, as they can be confused with blood in the colon.
•Drink plenty of clear liquids to avoid dehydration.
Note that if you have diabetes or take blood thinners, including aspirin or other pain relievers, your preparation for colonoscopy may be slightly different.
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The colon must be clear of stool and fluids for the colonoscopy to be accurate. Patients are normally asked to do the following during the twenty-four hours preceding the exam:
•Stop taking iron pills or medications containing iron, as iron residues produce a dark black stool, which interferes with a clear view.
•Take laxatives and sometimes enemas.
•Avoid eating solid foods; eat only soft foods.
•Fasting on exam day may be required.
•Drink only clear, non-alcoholic liquids such as black coffee, tea, water, or clear broth and juices.
•Avoid liquids that are red in color, as they can be confused with blood in the colon.
•Drink plenty of clear liquids to avoid dehydration.
Note that if you have diabetes or take blood thinners, including aspirin or other pain relievers, your preparation for colonoscopy may be slightly different.
You can find out more from this Center:
http://www.puristat.com/coloncleansing/colonoscopy.aspx
Hope it Helps!
December 6, 2011 - 7:52amKathy, Puristat Digestive Specialist
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