Q: I have been directed to drink ONLY clear liquid before my procedure. Can you please give me some examples of a clear liquid?

A: Broth, Coffee (without creamer, sugar is okay), Juice (apple, white grape or lemonade. Avoid cranberry or orange juice), Pop (dark cola only), Popsicle (no red), Tea, Gatorade (yellow or clear only), Jello-O gelatin (yellow only) or Crystal Light (yellow or clear only).

Q: What is a colonoscopy?

A: A colonoscopy is an exam that allows a doctor to see and closely look at the inside of the entire colon for signs of cancer or polyps. Polyps are small growths that over time can become cancer. The doctor uses a slender, flexible, hollow, lighted tube about the thickness of a finger. This "colonoscope" is gently eased inside the colon and has a tiny video camera, which sends pictures to a TV screen. Small puffs of air are put in the colon to keep it open and allow the doctor to see clearly.

View video of a colonoscopy.

Q: What are polyps?

A: A polyp is a fleshy growth on the lining of the large intestine and over time they can become cancerous. They are common and their incidence increases as people get older. If polyps are removed during your procedure, rectal bleeding is possible.

Q: I will be having a colonoscopy procedure. What should I bring with me to the GI Center?

A: Bring your current list of medications with dosage directions, your list of allergies and your insurance or Medicare card. Please leave all valuables at home and be sure to dress comfortably.

Q: How will I feel after my colonoscopy?

A: For the procedure, you will be given medications to make you sleepy. It will take several hours for these medications to wear off. You will need a responsible adult to drive you home and then stay with your for 2-3 hours.

View video of what to expect at your appointment.

 Q: Will I be totally asleep during my colonoscopy?

A: You will be given medication to make you sleepy and comfortable during the procedure. During the colonoscopy, you will be able to respond to the staff’s directions.

Q: What is an upper endoscopy?

A: An upper endoscopy is a visualization of the esophagus, stomach and upper small intestine. A small lighted flexible tube is inserted into the patient’s mouth and then passed through the upper digestive tract. The reason for performing this procedure is to see if there are any abnormalities of the tract. If an abnormality is found, a biopsy may be taken and the tissue is then sent to the lab for analysis.

View video of an endoscopy.

Q: Can I drive myself home after a colonoscopy or upper endoscopy?

A: No. The medications that you are given during your procedure will make you sleepy. So, please arrange for a responsible adult to pick you up after your procedure.

Q: How long will my upper endoscopy take?

A: An upper endoscopy takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes.

Q: How long will my colonoscopy take?

A: A colonoscopy can take 30 to 60 minutes. The time will depend on if biopsies are taken or polyps are found. After the procedure, you will be kept 1 to 2 hours. You will be given something light to eat.

Q: Should I continue to take my daily medications while prepping for my procedure?

A: Your physician will direct you on which medications to take and when to take them.

Q: What if I have questions or concerns after my procedure when I get home?

A: You will be given directions before you are discharged from our GI Center. A nurse will call you the day after your procedure to see how you are doing and to answer any questions.

Q: What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?

A: IBS is a long-term or recurrent disorder of gastrointestinal functioning. The syndrome can produce symptoms of abdominal pain or discomfort, bloating or a sense of gaseousness, and either diarrhea and/or constipation. Abdominal pain and/or discomfort is the key symptom of IBS and is often relieved or reduced with a bowel movement. Symptoms can come and go, and even change, over time.

Q: What are the symptoms of heartburn?

A: There are many things a person can feel when experiencing heartburn. Some of them include:

• Burning feeling in the chest just behind the breastbone that occurs after eating and lasts a few minutes to several hours.
• Chest pain, especially after bending over, lying down or eating.
• Burning in the throat or a hot, sour, acidic or salty-tasting fluid at the back of the throat.