How to Reduce Discomfort For Colonoscopy Prep

If you're one of the fortunate individuals who has to prepare for colonoscopy, don't let your mind get the best of you. The prep for the colonoscopy is probably the least favorable part of the entire procedure but with the right mindset you can sail through the colonoscopy prep with as little discomfort as possible. There's no question that preparing for a colonoscopy is not a picnic in the park, but it's not as bad as many people make it out to be either.

Instructions

• 1

  Keep the preparation instructions nearby. There is nothing worse then incorrectly preparing for a colonoscopy. Make sure you fully understand the prep instructions and follow them to the letter. You don't want to have to do it all again because of a misunderstanding. If necessary, create a little chart outlining the exact time you should begin and the exact amount of prep you must consume.

• 2

  Refrigerate your colonoscopy prep elixir. Whether you're drinking the HalfLytely, Phospho soda or any of the other liquid preps doctors prescribe, these less than delicious tasting drinks usually go down better when they're cold. Therefore, it is recommended that you follow the preparation instructions for mixing the concoction and then place it in the refrigerator well in advance so it will be cold.

• 3

  Keep breath mints, lemons or mouthwash nearby. Some people find the colonoscopy prep to be so distasteful that after each glass they want to wash all remnants of the taste from the mouth. Having mouthwash, mints or even lemons (be careful because lemon is acidic and too much can wreak havoc on the tooth enamel) to remove the taste in between doses can help.

• 4

  Get a good book, favorite movie or other form of entertainment to take your mind off of the colonoscopy prep. Just make sure that you can set up your entertainment in a room that's very close to the bathroom (books are probably the best alternative). You will be running back and forth to the bathroom often so you'll need something that's portable.

• 5

  Think about the large picture. No matter how uncomfortable you may think you are, it's only for a short period of time. What is 24 hours in comparison to years of living? Sometimes putting things into perspective goes a long when it comes to enduring temporary discomfort.