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Before a colonoscopy
(HealthDay News) -- A colonoscopy -- used to detect colon cancer and other potential problems -- involves use of a long, flexible tube with a camera that takes images of the colon.
Before having a colonoscopy, you should follow certain do's and don'ts to ensure an accurate procedure:
- Avoid all solid foods and any beverages with food coloring for one to three days before a colonoscopy.
- You may eat fat-free bouillon or broth soups, or gelatin.
- You may drink water, strained fruit juice, plain coffee, plain tea or diet soda (no food coloring).
- As certain medications may affect your results, tell your doctor if you are taking aspirin, arthritis medications, blood thinners, medications for diabetes, or any vitamins containing iron.
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Source: U.S. National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse
Copyright: © 2007 ScoutNews, LLC. All rights reserved.
First published: 08/22/2007
Last updated: 08/22/2007
Reviewed by: HealthDay, a service of ScoutNews, LLC