Colonoscopy PreparationAny medical examination of the intestinal tract and the rectal region is likely going to cause a certain amount of anxiety. A colonoscopy may sound unpleasant, but it is a necessary procedure to ensure that we remain cancer-free. This fear of the possible discomfort leads to 70% of patients over the age of 50 years of age ignoring the procedure altogether. Stop procrastinating. Schedule the appointment. We have some simple tips that can make the entire process much less frightening.

 

 

  1. Learn about the examination first.

If this is your first colonoscopy, then make sure to tell your doctor. He or she will be happy to explain the procedure and offer some helpful tips on how to best prepare for the examination. The colon must be thoroughly clean, or the results of the test may be inconclusive. Your doctor will give you the proper cleansing procedures to follow in advance. Always be honest about the medications that you are currently taking, too. You might have to stop taking them temporarily to have a more agreeable examination. And don’t be afraid to ask questions. The “fear of the unknown” is usually far worse than the actual procedure.

  1. Think positive.

During the preceding cleansing procedures for the colon, you might be spending more time than usual in the bathroom. Try to make light of the issue. Gather some of your favorite magazines to help pass the time. Watch YouTube videos of your favorite cartoons or television shows. Download some of your favorite tunes. Listen to some funny podcasts. Getting ready for the colonoscopy exam doesn’t have to be an entirely miserable process. Think positive. And be proud of yourself for taking care of your body.

  1. Plan ahead.

Since you already know that you will be spending a considerable amount of time in the bathroom in the days leading up to the colonoscopy examination, take some time to plan ahead and clear your schedule. Once the laxatives kick in, you may not have the time to run errands or cook dinner for the kids. Get your family involved. Ask your spouse to help out around the house. Maybe you can get some carpooling help from family, friends, and neighbors. Give yourself permission to take a little “me” time. By reducing the amount of stress in your life prior to the examination, you will feel far less anxious and infinitely more relaxed once the day finally arrives for your first colonoscopy.