Frequently Asked Questions About Colonoscopy

Can I have breakfast on the day before my colonoscopy?
No, you should begin your clear liquid diet as soon as you awaken. Any solid food eaten can cause your prep to be ineffective, sometimes resulting in a repeat procedure.

What should I do if I feel sick after taking the Fleets Phospho-Soda?
The Fleets Phospho-Soda can cause some nausea. Try to drink something warm, such as some tea with sugar. The warmth can sometimes settle the stomach. As soon as the nausea subsides continue to drink clear liquids in order to prevent cramping.

What medications should I take on the day of my colonoscopy?
We ask that you take any heart, blood pressure, asthma, anxiety, and seizure medications on the day of your procedure, before your cutoff time. If you are diabetic or taking pain medications please let us know so that we may give you special instructions.

Why do I have to stop drinking four hours before I come in?
We ask that you stop clear liquids four hours prior to your arrival to allow your stomach to empty before you receive sedation. Liquids in your stomach can be aspirated into your lungs when you are sedated, causing serious complications.

Why can’t I drive myself home after my procedure?
Someone must accompany you home from our facility because we will give you a medication that causes you to sleep during your procedure. This medication impairs judgment and reflexes, so you may not drive for 12 hours following your procedure. If you have difficulty in finding a driver, please let us know so that we may be of assistance.

I am a diabetic. What precautions should I take during the preparation period?
If you are diabetic, we will give you special instructions when your procedure is scheduled. Please let us know about all of your diabetic medications. It is important that you check your blood sugar frequently the day before and the day of your procedure. Since you will be on clear liquids, your blood sugar will tend to drop faster than normal. This can be avoided by including some fluids with regular sugar in your diet. It nay also be helpful to have some glucose tablets on hand in case your blood sugar falls and it is past your cutoff time for liquids.

More information on your prep procedure chose from the following links. Each Page is "Printer Friendly" for your convenience:

Colonoscopy Prep Instructions
Colonoscopy Using Dr. Cassaday's Prep
Colonoscopy Using Half-Lytel Prep