What if you forget to fast the day before a colonoscopy?

Forgoing the fasting period prior to a colonoscopy can pose significant health risks and compromise the accuracy and safety of the procedure. Colonoscopy involves examining the colon and rectum using a long, flexible tube with a camera attached. To ensure a clear view of the colon's lining, your colon must be empty of food and waste.

Skipping the fasting period can lead to:

1. Obstructed Vision: Unwanted food particles and waste matter in your colon can obstruct the colonoscopist's view during the procedure, potentially leading to missed abnormalities or incomplete evaluation.

2. Incomplete Bowel Prep: Proper bowel preparation is crucial for an effective colonoscopy. Fasting allows sufficient time for the laxatives and bowel preparation solutions to cleanse your colon thoroughly. Without adequate prep, the colonoscopist may not be able to visualize the entire colon, raising the risk of missing abnormalities.

3. Postponement of the Procedure: If the colon is insufficiently clean, the colonoscopy may need to be postponed to allow for proper bowel preparation. This can disrupt your schedule, create inconvenience, and potentially delay diagnosis or treatment of any underlying issues.

4. Additional Health Risks: Certain health conditions, such as heart or lung problems, may require special considerations during the fasting period and the colonoscopy. Not following the fasting instructions could increase the risk of complications or adverse reactions during the procedure.

5. Compromised Results: An inadequately prepared colon may compromise the accuracy and effectiveness of the colonoscopy, impacting the quality of the examination and potentially leading to misdiagnoses or inadequate treatment recommendations.

If you unintentionally forget to fast before your colonoscopy, contact your doctor immediately. They may suggest options to adjust your preparation accordingly or reschedule the procedure to ensure the utmost safety and accuracy of the examination.