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  • Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners

    Is it safe to have a colonoscopy yearly?

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    Bowel Cancer Cancer
    Does the prep strip any vital linings off your bowel wall?
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    Bowel Cancer Australia

    Bowel Cancer Australia is the leading community-funded charity dedicated to prevention, early diagnosis, research, quality treatment and care for everyone affected by bowel cancer. We … View Profile

    Hi there,

    Thank you for your question.

    I am assuming that you have been advised by your Doctor to have annual Colonoscopies due to a medical condition, of which the risks are greater than those posed by the colonoscopy procedure itself.
     
    Obviously, there are risks associated with any medical procedure, including the sedation required as well as the colonoscopy, which should be fully discussed with you by the treating doctor prior to the procedure.

    Many people required to take bowel prep find this the worst part of the whole procedure and it can be really tough on the digestive system. It is very necessary to have the colon clean of all faecal and food particles so the surgeon has a better view of the bowel, more room to work, as it is not full of gas, and to reduce the chance of infection. Whilst bowel prep is very important, it can also cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. Eating a healthy diet a few days beforehand including fruit and green vegetables with less meat and dairy will make it easier for your bowels to empty.
     
    Keep up with the fluids your doctor has approved for you to drink whilst taking the bowel prep.

    Afterwards, eating plenty of fibre and yoghurt (with live acidophilus) and green veggies will help to get your digestive system working again. Some people find certain supplements help including Vitamin C and Zinc (to support the immune system and help with healing) and acidophilus tablets (to help restore normal function of the bowel). Always check with your doctor before taking any supplements.

    Hope this information helps and good luck!

    Kind Regards
    Fiona
    Bowel Cancer Australia Nurse Adviser
    www.bowelcanceraustralia.org


    Please Note: The information provided by Bowel Cancer Australia’s Nurse and Nutritionist Advisory Services is intended for Australian residents as a reference guide only. It is not a substitute for independent professional advice and is not intended to be used to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or disorder.

    If you believe your symptoms are consistent with those of bowel cancer or a digestive illness, please consult your doctor.

    Bowel Cancer Australia, its directors, officers or medical professionals shall not be liable to any person, company or any other body for any loss, direct or indirect or consequential on whatsoever account for any omission or negligent misstatement.
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