What should be noted before undergoing a gastroenterology examination?
Oct 14, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhao Haiming
Introduction
Gastrointestinal examinations typically include gastroscopy and colonoscopy. Three days before the examination, maintain a light and easily digestible diet. Strictly fast from food and water one day prior to the procedure to ensure an empty bowel. Additionally, discontinue anticoagulant and blood-activating medications to reduce the risk of bleeding. Follow your doctor's instructions to take bowel-cleansing agents, which help achieve a clear view of the colonic mucosa.
Digestive internal medicine examinations typically include gastroscopy and colonoscopy. Prior to these procedures, patients are generally required to fast strictly, discontinue certain medications, and take bowel-cleansing agents.
1. Strict Fasting
Prior to the examination, patients should maintain a light and easily digestible diet for three days, avoiding foods that tend to leave residue. On the day before the procedure, patients must fast completely—refraining from both food and water—to ensure the gastrointestinal tract is empty. This prevents residual food from interfering with the examination.
2. Discontinuation of Medications
Before the examination, patients should stop taking anticoagulant medications and drugs that promote blood circulation and resolve blood stasis. This reduces the risk of bleeding during the procedure, especially if a biopsy is required.
3. Taking Bowel-Cleansing Medications
The day before the examination, patients should take bowel-cleansing medications as prescribed by their doctor. These medications help thoroughly clean the intestines, enabling clear visualization of the colonic mucosa. This prevents fecal matter from obscuring the mucosal surface, thereby facilitating accurate observation and diagnosis of any conditions.
