How fear may be increasing your cancer risk

Patients are usually sedated when undergoing colonoscopy. Still, many middle-aged men and women avoid this life-saving procedure out of fear.

Dr. Sakhie Hussain, a gastroenterologist at Advocate Trinity Hospital in Chicago, says the No. 1 fear among his patients is the preparation, which involves drinking a bowel-cleaning liquid.

Dr. Hussain identifies early stage colon cancer in patients almost every month. So don’t let fear stand in the way of colonoscopy and follow these tips:

Start early

If you’re prone to constipation, ask your doctor about eating a low-fiber diet for the week before your procedure. Or ask about starting a liquid diet one day sooner to help loosen your bowels.

Go halfsies
Drink half of the preparation liquid the evening before your procedure and half the morning of. You’ll still need to down the same amount of liquid, but the smaller doses may be easier to swallow.

Ask for suction

Dr. Hussain uses carbon dioxide to minimize discomfort, but some doctors will pump air into your colon as part of your procedure. If your doctor injects air, ask about having it suctioned out at the end of your colonoscopy to help minimize gassiness and bloating.

Carry Wipes

When you purchase wet wipes to keep by your toilet at home, pick up an additional packet to keep with you, especially if you return to work the day after your procedure.