Here's how to get through the dreaded colonoscopy prep, procedure, and recovery if you have IBS.
And then how to get your gut back on track quickly and calmly!
First of all, ask your GI doc about Cologard. This is an at-home test for colon cancer where you take a poo sample and then mail it in. That might be an option instead of the colonoscopy.
If it’s not an option, then follow the detailed colonoscopy prep help here.
Your doc will typically okay clear liquids even after you have to restrict foods. If that's the case, and you're using Tummy Fiber, the fiber dissolved in plain water should qualify as a clear liquid. If you are allowed to keep using it do so, as it will keep your gut calm.
Make sure the procedure will be done with you completely unconscious. A colonoscopy is a severe insult to your gut. That can literally cause IBS.
You should not be aware of anything during the procedure at all.
IBS folks have hypersensitive guts by definition. That means your gut will tend to spasm violently from the procedure. You don't want to be even semi-conscious for that.
And make sure your docs know that you have IBS, so they can take that into account during the procedure and are prepared for it.
After you wake up, follow the magic trick here to break any dysfunctional motility cycles that are arising from the insult to your gut.
You can do that magic trick for the next several days. It's boring, but it will help get your gut back up and running in a calm, stable fashion and avoid cramps, diarrhea, constipation, etc.
After normal bowel movements resume you can carefully expand your diet and stay stable.
You are not alone.
P.S. If you have any questions or comments I'd love to hear them - just reply to this email to reach me directly. I am overwhelmed with emails but I try to answer everyone. If you need immediate help please join my private IBS coaching.
XOXO
Heather
Heather Van Vorous
Over 40 years dealing with IBS
Get full help for IBS here
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