Endoscopy procedures help your care team look inside your digestive tract. These tests include colonoscopy, upper endoscopy (EGD), ERCP, flexible sigmoidoscopy, ileoscopy, and endoscopic ultrasound.
This information answers common questions about preparing for and recovering from an endoscopy.
Why can’t I eat the day before my colonoscopy?
A clear liquid diet for at least 30 hours before your colonoscopy helps clean the colon. A clean colon lets your provider see the lining clearly. Eating before the test can leave stool behind and may cause the exam to be repeated.
Tips for success
- Drink clear liquids every hour while awake
- Choose liquids with calories, not just water
- Good hydration helps reduce hunger and nausea
- Fluids also protect your kidneys and improve prep results
Why must I stop nuts, seeds, and berries?
These foods are hard to digest and difficult to clear from the colon. Small particles can block the scope and hide areas of the colon. This may make the test longer or less accurate and could require another exam.
If you ate these foods within a week of your colonoscopy, call your care team for guidance.
Why do I need prep again 5 hours before the test?
The first prep clears solid stool. Overnight, fluid from the small intestine enters the colon and can blur the view. Taking the second prep dose about 5 hours before your exam helps ensure a high-quality test.
Why do I need so much liquid laxative?
Large-volume prep solutions are well studied and effective. They are also safest for people with heart or kidney conditions. Your provider will choose the best prep for your health needs.
Are pill or low-volume preps an option?
Pill preps contain sodium phosphate, which can harm the kidneys. Smaller-volume preps may not clean the colon as well and may pose risks for older adults or those with heart or kidney disease. For safety and accuracy, standard liquid prep is usually recommended.
What if I feel sick while drinking the prep?
- Pause for 20–30 minutes
- Restart slowly
- Take small sips every few minutes
If vomiting continues, call your care team.
What if the prep doesn’t work?
Most people have bowel movements within 3–4 hours. If you do not, you may use a bisacodyl (Dulcolax) suppository and repeat once in one hour. If there is still no effect, call your care team.
If you often have constipation, ask about a modified prep before your procedure.
How long does the test take?
The procedure usually lasts 20–30 minutes. Plan to be at the endoscopy center about two hours total.
Before the test:
- You review your health history and medications
- You meet your care team and give consent
- An IV and monitoring equipment are placed
After the test:
- You recover from sedation for 30–60 minutes
- Staff monitor you before discharge
Why can’t I drive home?
Sedation can cause sleepiness, slow reflexes, and memory gaps. For safety, you must have someone take you home and stay with you after the procedure. If you do not have a ride, the procedure may need to be rescheduled.
When will I get results?
Your provider may speak with you briefly after the test. Because of sedation, you may not remember details.
If biopsies or polyps are removed, lab results usually take about one week. Your care team will call or send a letter with results. You may also schedule a visit to review findings.
Questions?
If you have concerns before or after your endoscopy, contact your gastroenterology care team. They are here to support you and help ensure a safe, successful procedure.
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