Consult Your Doctor
When people schedule a colonoscopy, they should consult with Dr. Jones about medical conditions they have and all prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements they take, including

• Aspirin or medications that contain aspirin
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or naproxen
• Arthritis medications
• Blood thinners
• Diabetes medications
• Vitamins that contain iron or iron supplements

Arrange a Ride
Driving is not allowed for 24 hours after the procedure to allow time for the anesthesia to wear off.

Cleanse the Bowel
Nacogdoches Gastroenterology will provide written bowel prep instructions to follow at home. Dr. Jones orders a bowel prep so that little to no stool is present inside the patient’s intestine. A complete bowel prep lets the person pass stool that is clear. Stool inside the colon can prevent Dr. Jones from clearly seeing the lining of the intestine. Instructions may include following a clear liquid diet for 1 to 3 days before the procedure and avoiding drinks that contain red or purple dye. The instructions will provide specific direction about when to start and stop the clear liquid diet. People may drink or eat the following:

• Fat-free bouillon or broth
• Strained fruit juice, such as apple or white grape (orange juice is not recommended)
• Water
• Plain coffee or tea, without cream or milk
• Sports drinks in flavors such as lemon, lime or orange
• Gelatin in flavors such as lemon, lime or orange

A person needs to take laxatives the night before a colonoscopy. A laxative is medication that loosens stool and increases bowel movements. Laxatives can cause diarrhea, so the patient should stay close to a bathroom during the bowel prep.

Laxatives are usually swallowed in pill form or as a powder dissolved in water. Some people will need to drink a large amount, usually a gallon, of liquid laxative at scheduled times. People may find this part of the bowel prep difficult; however, it is very important to complete the prep. Dr. Jones will not be able to see the colon clearly if the prep is incomplete.

People should call Nacogdoches Gastroenterology if they are having side effects that are preventing them from finishing the prep.