A doctor shared her top five colonoscopy tips on TikTok .
Karen Zaghiyan ( @drkarenzaghiyan_official ), a board-certified colorectal surgeon based in Los Angeles , used the platform to share tips for what she described as "one of the most feared" but also "most interesting" exams.
In the video , which has been viewed more than 700,000 times, Zaghiyan primarily advises that the brew may taste terrible, but take it seriously because a thorough cleaning will allow doctors to see clearly.
"You are responsible for the success of your own colonoscopy by doing an excellent job of cleaning your colon," he said.
Here is the rest of his advice.
1. Tailored preparation for constipation
For patients with constipation, Zaghiyan recommends planning ahead.
"If you tend not to have a bowel movement every day, [...] you might be a little late on the day of your colonoscopy prep," she explained.
Zaghiyan recommended speaking with a doctor about adjusting laxatives or medications a week before the exam. This could include increasing the dosage of Miralax or magnesium supplements to ensure proper colon cleansing.
He also noted that a two-day formula course or larger volume solutions may be recommended for some patients.
"Small preparations [...] may not be ideal for you if you have constipation," he said.
2. Keep yourself hydrated during preparation
Even with smaller, more convenient formula solutions like pills or small bottles, hydration is essential.
"For this preparation to work properly, you need to drink a lot of fluids," advises Zaghiyan.
In addition to these solutions, drink more water and electrolyte-rich fluids to activate the cleansing process.
3. Avoid foods rich in fiber
For a week before starting your colonoscopy prep, avoid foods that are difficult to remove from the colon, such as quinoa, chia seeds, and nuts.
"These can stay in the colon and clog our screens," Zaghiyan warned.
By eliminating fiber, patients can improve the effectiveness of the formula and make it easier for doctors to examine the colon.
4. Choose an early date
Scheduling a colonoscopy in the morning, if possible, can make the preparation process less intimidating. If the preparation is completed the day before, patients can wake up and begin the procedure directly without additional cleaning.
"You just need to prepare at night, which is much easier than drinking the full amount of solution first thing in the morning," Zaghiyan said.
5. Read the instructions in advance .
One of Zaghiyan's most practical tips is to read the preparation instructions at least a week in advance.
"Many people read their colonoscopy instructions the day before they arrive [...] and forget to stop taking any medications or supplements they shouldn't be taking," he said.
By following these tips, patients can ensure that their colonoscopy is much easier to manage.
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