Nobody looks forward to having a colonoscopy done, but the fact remains that having this screening done can and does save lives. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 60% of colon cancer deaths could be prevented if people had screenings done as recommended. Often times, the most difficult aspect of having a colonoscopy done is preparing for it, as you need to completely clean out your colon and rectum prior to the screening.

Still, there are some steps you can take to make preparation easier and reduce your anxiety over the entire procedure.

Don't Hesitate to Ask Questions

First and foremost, don't be afraid to ask your doctor as many questions as you need to. Most likely, your doctor has heard all these questions/concerns before and will be happy to address them for you. By understanding what will be expected of you in addition to what you can expect from the colonoscopy prep and screening, you'll be better prepared.

Create a Shopping List

Be sure to ask your doctor for a list of recommendations when it comes to things you should buy to make the preparation process easier. For example, because you will be spending a lot of time in the bathroom, many would recommend that you pick up some flushable baby wipes. You will also be limited in what you can eat/drink, so be sure to get a list of approved beverages from your doctor and stock up.

Talk to Someone With Experience

A lot of times, talking to somebody else who has had a colonoscopy done before can be helpful. If somebody you're close with has had one done, consider having a talk with them about it; they may be able to provide you with advice and reassurance, especially if you're feeling nervous or anxious.

Ask for Help

Finally, since you will likely be "out of commission" for the majority of your preparation days, you may want to ask a loved one for help around the house. For example, if you have children, see if your spouse or a loved one can step up to take care of them while you're preparing for your colonoscopy. A little bit of help around the house can go a long way.

By keeping these tips in mind as you prepare for your colonoscopy, you can make the sure the entire process goes as smoothly as possible for you. To learn more, contact a company like Clinical Gastrointestinal Associates, PC.