A year ago, at the age of 34, I faced a frightening rectal cancer scare. According to the CDC, colorectal cancer ranks as the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. This statistic was shocking to me, especially with the increasing incidence of these cancers among younger adults. Since March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, it’s essential to discuss this topic candidly.
Awareness of the symptoms and signs of colorectal cancer is critical, particularly since routine colonoscopies for individuals at average risk typically don’t start until age 50. Being informed about the warning signs empowers you to advocate for your health, especially if you have symptoms that raise concerns before reaching the usual screening age. Remember, rectal bleeding can occur for reasons other than hemorrhoids, and if you experience unusual symptoms, your doctor may recommend a colonoscopy.
Many individuals echo the sentiment that the preparation for a colonoscopy is more daunting than the procedure itself. Sure, the bowel prep can feel like a powerful cleanse, but it’s manageable. After undergoing three bowel preparations in the past year, I no longer feel like a novice. If bowel prep has been holding you back from getting screened, here’s a practical guide to help you breeze through it.
Tips for a Smooth Bowel Prep
- Opt for Light Meals: The day before your colonoscopy is typically a clear liquid diet day. Prior to this, avoid overindulging. What you eat must eventually come out, and a heavy meal will leave you starving afterward. I recommend a light meal, like Rice Krispies and toast, the day before your clear liquid diet.
- Prioritize Broth: During your clear liquid diet, ensure you consume enough calories. I learned the hard way that canned broth can be quite low in calories. Instead, try making your own broth with a few cups of water and chicken using an Instant Pot. Strain it, and you’ll have a nourishing, calorie-rich broth.
- Visit the Baby Aisle: When preparing for your colonoscopy, stock up on diaper cream and baby wipes. These will be invaluable during bowel prep. The routine becomes simple: use, wipe, and apply cream generously to keep discomfort at bay.
- Hydrate: In the days leading up to your procedure, drink plenty of water. During bowel prep, adhere to your doctor’s instructions on fluid intake. Being thirsty and hungry is worse than just being hungry. I even set an alarm to remind me when to stop drinking fluids.
- Dive Right In: When it’s time to consume the bowel-cleansing solution, don’t procrastinate. The sooner you start, the sooner it’s over. Trust me—stay close to the bathroom; it’s wise advice.
- Adjust Your Expectations: Instead of planning to read or watch movies, engage in less demanding tasks like cleaning the bathroom or counting tiles. Embrace the distraction; it’ll help pass the time.
- Stay Calm: This tip, courtesy of my husband, is straightforward. Remember, the process will be fine. If you’ve ever dealt with a potty-training child, you know the location of toilets is plentiful. You will get through this!
Getting a colonoscopy is a critical step in identifying potential health issues. It’s essential and beneficial. When discussing bowel prep with a friend, she exclaimed, “Isn’t there an easier way?” Unfortunately, no. While the prep isn’t a pleasure cruise, it’s a necessary part of preventing and detecting colorectal cancer early. Join me this Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month in spreading the word about the importance of screenings.
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Summary
A colonoscopy is a vital procedure that can be daunting, particularly because of the preparation involved. However, understanding the process and taking the right steps can ease your experience. From dietary choices to maintaining hydration, these tips can help you successfully navigate bowel prep and ensure you’re prioritizing your health.