Creda AppYour Procedure Prep
Just Got Easier With Us!

Do you have a procedure such as colonoscopy coming up and are delaying, avoiding, or dreading it? You are not alone. Most people dread not the procedure itself, but the preparation for it. Understandably so. There are several steps occupying an entire day or two, dietary restrictions, powerful laxatives, etc.

We at Creda health have partnered with the Center for Advanced GI, Maitland, with the aim of easing the process involved in prepping & to achieve a successful procedure. We will do so by sending you short instructions on:

- What to do every day from a few days to a week prior to the procedure up until the day of the procedure

- What to expect a few days after the procedure and when to call your doctor after the procedure.
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Frequently Asked Questions

At Creda, we are changing patient-centered care outside of traditional settings by empowering you with the right information at the right time. We provide patient friendly and timely instructions and reminders. Do you have questions about your procedures?
We are here to help. Please choose the procedure.

  • Colonoscopy
  • Upper Endoscopy
  • Sigmoidoscopy
  • Hemorrhoid Banding
Colonoscopy
What is a colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is a safe procedure used to examine the colon or rectum for abnormalities. A thin tube with a camera and light on the end is inserted into the rectum to view the inside of the entire colon. The procedure generally takes between 20 minutes and one hour.
What happens during a colonoscopy?
Before the colonoscopy procedure, you will be given fluid and medications through an IV line. Many people sleep during the test, while others are very relaxed, comfortable, and generally not aware. A colonoscope, a long flexible tube approximately the diameter of the index finger, is inserted. The tube is then gently inflated so that the doctor can see the entire lining. During your colonoscopy, the doctor may take a biopsy or remove polyps. A biopsy is a small tissue sample that is taken if anything looks abnormal. The tissue sample will be sent to the lab for further testing. Polyps are growths of tissue that can range in size from the tip of a pen to several inches. They can be benign (not cancerous) or pre-cancerous (can become cancerous if allowed to grow for a long time).
What are the reasons for doing a colonoscopy?

The most common reasons for a colonoscopy are:

  • To screen for colon polyps (growths of tissue in the colon) or colon cancer
  • A family history of colon cancer
  • A personal history of colon polyps or colon cancer
  • Chronic unexplained abdominal or rectal pain
  • Rectal bleeding
  • A change in bowel habits, like persistent diarrhhea or constipation
  • Iron deficiency anemia – a decrease in blood count due to loss of iron
  • To assess the extent and/or severity of disease and to assess treatment responses in people with inflammatory bowel diseases
  • An abnormal x-ray exam, like a barium enema or CT scan
What should I do 5 days prior to the colonoscopy procedure?

Starting 5 days prior to the procedure:

  • Start a low-fiber diet. Do not eat corn, nuts, whole grains, or raw vegetables. You can resume your regular diet after the procedure.
  • Do not take fiber supplements, such as Metamucil.
  • Discontinue iron pills and multi-vitamins unless otherwise instructed by your doctor.
    Click here to read more.
What should I do 1 day prior to the colonoscopy procedure?

One day prior to the procedure is the bowel prep day and an important day. Many people find that the prep is the most unpleasant part of the test due to the frequent visits to the bathroom. The prep is very important, however, since your colon must be completely cleaned out before the colonoscopy so that the doctor can see any abnormal areas. For this reason, following instructions is key to your colonoscopy’s success.

  • You may experience mild bloating, mild abdominal cramps, and loose stools during bowel prep. This is normal and can be alleviated by drinking the prep medication more slowly and over a longer period of time.
  • Depending on the prescribed bowel prep, the instructions will vary. If you are prescribed Dulcolax & Miralax you should not eat anything for breakfast, lunch, and dinner except clear liquids. For other preparations, like Suprep, Plenvu, PEG-3350, Golytely, and Gavilyte, you may have a light breakfast such as toast, cereal, and oatmeal, and then you must drink clear liquids for the rest of the day. A clear liquid is a liquid you can hold up to the light and see through. Some examples include water, clear broth, ices, gelatin, coffee or tea without milk, apple juice, jell-O, and Gatorade. Avoid red and/or purple colored jell-O and Gatorade. Do not drink or eat anything red or purple.
  • Please arrange for a driver to pick you up after the procedure. You will not be permitted to drive after anesthesia under any circumstances. Not having a designated driver may result in your procedure being cancelled.

Click on respective links regarding instructions to follow 1 day prior to the procedure:
For bowel prep with Dulcolax and MiraLAX – here

For bowel prep with Suprep – here

For bowel prep with Plenvu – here

For bowel prep with PEG-3350, Golitely or Gavilyte – here

What should I do on the day of the colonoscopy procedure?

You are assigned a care team comprising of nutrition and health experts who help you set realistic and achievable health goals.

They customize their support to your health needs, hand hold you, and tweak your program as they become more familiar with your lifestyle through continuous communication andmonitoring all the metrics you track in the app. The digital health assistant also provides mindful nudges and insights into your health and habits.

Evaluating Your Progress/ Putting Together The Big Picture

On the day of the procedure, make sure you arrive at the time suggested by your doctor. The suggested time is generally 30 minutes earlier than the appointment, but this varies from clinic to clinic.

  • If you have a morning procedure, do not drink anything including water before the procedure. If your procedure is in the afternoon, you may have clear liquids up until 2 hours prior to the procedure. A clear liquid is a liquid you can hold up to the light and see through. Some examples include water, clear broth, ices, gelatin, coffee or tea without milk, apple juice, jell-O, and Gatorade. Avoid red and/or purple colored jell-O and Gatorade. Do not drink or eat anything red or purple.
  • If you are taking blood pressure or heart medications, pain medications, and/or breathing or seizure medications, take them with enough water to swallow pills. Insulin and diabetic medications should not be taken in the morning or evening before the procedure unless otherwise instructed by your doctor.
  • Please arrange for a driver to pick you up after the procedure. You will not be permitted to drive after anesthesia under any circumstances. Not having a designated driver may result in your procedure being cancelled.

Click on respective links regarding instructions to follow on the day of the procedure:
For bowel prep with Dulcolax and Miralax, click the link below- here

For bowel prep with Suprep, Plenvu, PEG-3350, Golitely or Gavilyte, click the link below- here

What should I do 3 days prior to the colonoscopy procedure?

Starting 3 days prior to the procedure:

  • Stop taking blood thinners UNLESS OTHERWISE INSTRUCTED by your doctor.
  • Continue eating a low-fiber diet. Do not eat corn, nuts, whole grains, or raw vegetables. You can resume your regular diet after the procedure.
  • Do not take fiber supplements, such as Metamucil.
  • Continue not taking iron tablets and multi-vitamins unless otherwise instructed by your doctor.
  • Let your doctor know if you cannot make it to the appointment. Please allow at least 3 days notice if you need to cancel or reschedule.

Click here to read more.

What should I wear for the procedure?
Wear loose, comfortable clothing that will be easy to change. You will be required to change into a hospital gown for your procedure. Do not wear jewelry or nail polish. Nail polish should be removed to allow for an easier monitoring of your oxygen level from your fingertip.
What are the various bowel preparations used for colonoscopies?
There are various preparartions used to prep for the colonoscopy procedure. The ideal bowel preparation prescribed by your doctor is the one that is safe, efficacious, well-tolerated, and reasonably priced. Here is a list of widely used bowel preparations: PLENVU, SUPREP, DULCOLAX & MIRALAX, PEG-3350, GOLYTELY, GAVILYTE, SUTAB, CLENPIQ, MOVIPREP
What determines the type of bowel preparation I get?
There are various factors involved in chosing the right bowel preparation for an individual. The most important factor is your medical condition. Make sure you share your complete medical history, including pregnancy & breastfeeding, with your doctor. The other factors include prior experience and results with a given preparation, cost, allergies to medications, and individual preferences (taste and amount of medication). The ideal bowel preparation prescribed by your doctor is the one that is safe, efficacious, well-tolerated, and reasonably priced.
What are the symptoms that I may experience from the preparation?
Along with watery diarrhea you may experience abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting from the preparation. Methods that can help with nausea and vomiting include temporarily stopping drinking the solution, walking around, and resuming drinking at a slower pace. It is normal to experience mild abdominal cramps but if you are experiencing severe abdominal pain, stop the prep and call your doctor immediately. If there is no response go to the ER.
How many days before the scheduled procedure can I cancel the appointment if I wish to?
If you need to cancel your procedure, you must cancel 3 to 5 business days (1 week) in advance. You need to allow at least 3 days’ notice to cancel or reschedule a colonoscopy.
Do I need to discontinue prescription and non-preprescription medicines prior to the colonoscopy procedure?

Some medications may need to be discontinued prior to the procedure, as per the instructions provided by your doctor. Do not stop any medications without first talking with your doctor. Medications that may be discontinued include:

  • Blood thinners: blood thinners are generally stopped 3 days prior to the colonoscopy procedure unless otherwise instructed by your doctor. These include Coumadin, Plavix, Eliquis, aspirin, or aspirin products.
  • Iron pills and multi-vitamins: these medications are generally stopped 5 days prior to the colonoscopy procedure unless otherwise instructed by your doctor.
  • Insulin and diabetic medications should not be taken the morning or evening before the procedure unless otherwise instructed by your doctor.
Can I eat or drink 1 day prior to or on the day of the procedure?

1 day prior to the procedure:
You should avoid solids. If you are prescribed Dulcolax & Miralax you should not eat anything for breakfast, lunch, or dinner except for clear liquids one day prior to the procedure. For other preparations, such as Suprep, Plenvu, PEG-3350, Golytely, and Gavilyte, you may have a light breakfast such as toast, cereal, and oatmeal one day prior to the procedure. You should have clear liquids for the rest of the day. A clear liquid is a liquid you can hold up to the light and see through. Some examples include water, clear broth, ices, gelatin, coffee or tea without milk, apple juice, jell-O, and Gatorade. Avoid red and/or purple colored jell-O and Gatorade. Do not drink or eat anything red or purple.

Day of the procedure:
If you have a morning procedure, do not eat or drink anything including water before the procedure. If your procedure is in the afternoon, you may have clear liquids up until 2 hours prior to the procedure.

What are clear liquids?
A clear liquid is a liquid you can hold up to the light and see through. Some examples include water, clear broth, ices, gelatin, coffee or tea without milk, apple juice, Jell-O, and Gatorade. Avoid red and/or purple colored Jell-O and Gatorade.
Can I have clear liquids on the day of the procedure?

If you have a morning procedure, do not eat or drink anything including water before the procedure. If your procedure is in the afternoon, you may have clear liquids up until 2 hours prior to the procedure.

Why should I avoid anything red or purple before a colonoscopy?
Red- and purple-colored foods discolor the stool and interfere with the colonoscopy, so these foods should be avoided.
Why should I avoid alcohol before a colonoscopy?

Here are the main reasons why alcohol should be avoided:

  • Alcohol is dehydrating, and you will be losing lot of fluids due to the colonoscopy prep. Alcohol causes your body to remove fluids from your blood at a much quicker rate than other liquids.
  • Alcohol may interact with the sedatives used during the procedure. Avoid all alcoholic beverages regardless of if they are clear or not.
Why should I avoid dairy products before a colonoscopy?

Traces of milk and other dairy products can hide a possible polyp in the walls of the colon.

Why is it important to follow bowel prep instructions before a colonoscopy procedure?
A colonoscopy is done to look at abnormalities in the colon. Your colon must be completely cleaned out in order to increase the chances that your doctor will see any abnormal areas within the colon. The bowel preps are necessary because these laxatives clean out the colon.
What is the desired result of bowel prep?
The desired result of bowel prep one day prior to the procedure is watery diarrhea with no solid stool. Diarrhea that looks like urine is the end result.
When should I arrive for the appointment?
Make sure to arrive at the time suggested by your doctor on the day of the procedure. The suggested time is generally 30 minutes earlier than the appointment but varies from clinic to clinic.
What happens after a colonoscopy?

After the procedure, you will be observed in the recovery area for about 30 to 60 minutes or until the sedation wears off. Most people tolerate colonoscopies very well and feel fine afterward. It is normal to feel tired afterward. The most common complaint after a colonoscopy is a feeling of bloating and gas cramps. You should pass gas to relieve bloating and cramps and should not feel embarrassed about it. After the driver or the person accompanying you picks you up, you can take it easy and relax for the rest of the day. Do not return to work, drive, or drink alcohol that day. You can return to work the next day. Most people are able to eat normally after the procedure. If you were asked to discontinue medications that your were previously taking, discuss with your doctor about a safe time to restart them.

Call your doctor immediately if you experience any of these after the procedure:

  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Firm or bloated abdomen
  • Vomiting
  • Fever
  • Rectal bleeding (greater than a couple of tablespoons or 30 mL)
Can I drive back home after the procedure?
No. You will not be allowed to drive back home. The arranged person accompanying you will pick you up after the procedure and will drive you back home. You should not drive that day.
When should I call my doctor after the colonoscopy?

Call your doctor immediately if you experience any of these after the procedure:

  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Firm or bloated abdomen
  • Vomiting
  • Fever
  • Rectal bleeding (greater than a couple of tablespoons or 30 mL)
Upper Endoscopy
What is an upper endoscopy?
An upper endoscopy is a procedure used to examine the lining of the upper digestive tract, which includes the esophagus (the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach), the stomach, and the duodenum (the first part of the small intestine). A thin tube with a camera and light on the end is inserted into your mouth and down into your esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. The procedure typically takes between 10 and 20 minutes to complete.
What happens during an upper endoscopy?

After you understand the procedure and the reason for the procedure and sign the consent form, you will be administered either sedation or medication to numb the back of your throat. For those receiving sedation, an intravenous line will be inserted into a vein in your hand or arm and the sedative medications for the procedure will be administered. If you are not receiving any sedation, you may be given medication to numb the back of your throat just prior to the endoscopy to prevent gagging during the instrument’s passage.
After this, you will be asked to lie on your left side and a plastic mouth guard will be placed between your teeth. The endoscope, a flexible, finger-sized tube with a lens and light source, is inserted into your mouth and will allow the doctor to see the inner lining of the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract, usually on a TV monitor. Air or carbon dioxide gas is gently introduced through the endoscope to open the gastrointestinal tract.
Your doctor may take biopsies. A biopsy is a small tissue sample that is taken if anything looks abnormal. The tissue sample will be sent to the lab for further testing. Obtaining biopsies is not painful. Other specific treatments, such as dilation (stretching of a narrowed area), polyp removals, or treatment of bleeding, may be completed depending on what is found during the examination.

What are the reasons for an upper endoscopy?

You are assigned a care team comprising of nutrition and health experts who help you set realistic and achievable health goals.

They customize their support to your health needs, hand hold you, and tweak your program as they become more familiar with your lifestyle through continuous communication andmonitoring all the metrics you track in the app. The digital health assistant also provides mindful nudges and insights into your health and habits.

Evaluating Your Progress/ Putting Together The Big Picture

The most common reasons for doing an endoscopy are:

  • Persitent nausea and vomiting
  • Unexplained pain in the upper abdomen
  • Gastroesophageal refluux disease (GERD), a conditio when stomach acid repeatedly flows back into the tube connecting your mouth and stomach (esophagus)
  • Vomiting blood or blood found in the stool that originated from upper gastrointestinal tract
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Iron deficiency anemia – a decrease in blood count due to loss of iron
  • Removal of foreign body
  • Abnormal or unclear findings on X-ray, CT scan, or MRI
What should I do 3 days prior to the upper endoscopy procedure?

Starting 3 days prior to the procedure:

  • Stop taking blood thinners or aspirin UNLESS OTHERWISE INSTRUCTED by your doctor.
  • Let your doctor know if you cannot make it to the appointment. Please allow at least 3 days notice if you need to cancel or reschedule.

Click here to read more.

What should I do 1 day prior to the upper endoscopy procedure?
Do not eat or drink anything after midnight on the night before the exam. Please arrange for a driver to pick you up after the procedure. You will not be permitted to drive after the procedure if you are receiving sedatives. Not having a designated driver may result in your procedure being cancelled.
What should I do on the day of the upper endoscopy procedure?

On the day of the procedure, make sure you arrive at the time suggested by your doctor. The suggested time is generally 30 minutes earlier than the appointment, but this varies from clinic to clinic.

If you have a morning procedure do not eat or drink anything, including water, before the procedure. If your procedure is in the afternoon, you may have clear liquids only in the early morning, then nothing by mouth for 2 hours prior to the procedure. A clear liquid is a liquid you can hold up to the light and see through. Some examples include water, clear broth, ices, gelatin, coffee or tea without milk, apple juice, Jell-O, and Gatorade. Avoid red and/or purple-colored Jell-O and Gatorade. Do not drink or eat anything red or purple.

  • If you are taking blood pressure or heart medications, pain medications, and/or breathing or seizure medications, take them in the morning with a few sips of water. Do not take insulin or diabetic medications on the morning of the procedure unless otherwise instructed by your doctor.
  • Please arrange for a driver to pick you up after the procedure. You will not be permitted to drive after the procedure if you are receiving sedatives. Not having a designated driver may result in your procedure being cancelled.

Click here regarding instructions to follow on the day of the procedure:

What should I wear for the procedure?
Wear loose, comfortable clothing that will be easy to change. You will be required to change into a hospital gown for your procedure. Do not wear jewelry or nail polish. Nail polish should be removed to allow for an easier monitoring of your oxygen level from your fingertip.
How many days before the scheduled procedure can I cancel the appointment if I wish to?
If you need to cancel your procedure, you must cancel 3 to 5 business days (1 week) in advance. You need to allow at least 3 days notice to cancel or reschedule.
Do I need to discontinue prescription and non-preprescription medicines prior to the upper endoscopy procedure?

Some medications may need to be discontinued prior to the procedure, as per the instructions provided by your doctor. Do not stop any medications without first talking with your doctor. Medications that may be discontinued include:

  • Blood thinners: blood thinners are generally stopped 3 days prior to the procedure unless otherwise instructed by your doctor. These include Coumadin, Plavix, Eliquis, aspirin, or aspirin products.
  • Insulin and diabetic medications should not be taken on the morning of the procedure unless otherwise instructed by your doctor.
Can I eat or drink 1 day prior to or on the day of the upper endoscopy procedure?

1 day prior to the procedure – You should not eat or drink anything after midnight on the night before the exam

On the day of the procedure – If you have a morning procedure do not eat or drink anything, including water, before the procedure. If your procedure is in the afternoon, you may have clear liquids only in the early morning, then nothing by mouth for 2 hours prior to procedure. A clear liquid is a liquid you can hold up to the light and see through. Some examples include water, clear broth, ices, gelatin, coffee or tea without milk, apple juice, jell-O, and Gatorade. Avoid red and/or purple colored jell-O and Gatorade.

What are clear liquids?
A clear liquid is a liquid you can hold up to the light and see through. Some examples include water, clear broth, ices, gelatin, coffee or tea without milk, apple juice, Jell-O, and Gatorade. Avoid red and/or purple-colored Jell-O and Gatorade. Do not drink or eat anything red or purple.
Can I have clear liquids on the day of the procedure?
If you have a morning procedure, do not eat or drink anything, including water, before the procedure. If your procedure is in the afternoon, you may have clear liquids only in the early morning, then nothing by mouth for 2 hours prior to procedure.
How many days before the scheduled procedure can I cancel the appointment if I wish to?
If you need to cancel your procedure, you must cancel 3 to 5 business days (1 week) in advance. You need to allow at least 3 days notice to cancel or reschedule.
Why should I avoid anything red or purple before the upper endoscopy?
Red- and purple-colored foods can interfere with the upper endoscopy, so these foods should be avoided.
Why should I avoid alcohol before the upper endoscopy?

Here are the main reasons why alcohol should be avoided:

  • Alcohol is dehydrating. Alcohol causes your body to remove fluids from your blood at a much quicker rate than other liquids.
  • Alcohol may interact with the sedatives used during the procedure. Avoid all alcoholic beverages regardless of if they are clear or not.
Why should I avoid dairy products before the upper endoscopy?
Traces of milk and other dairy products can hide a possible abnormality in the walls of the gastrointestinal tract
When should I arrive for the appointment?
Make sure to arrive at the time suggested by your doctor on the day of the procedure. The suggested time is generally 30 minutes earlier than the appointment, but this varies from clinic to clinic.
What happens after an upper endoscopy?

After the procedure, you will be observed in the recovery area for about 30 to 60 minutes or until the sedation wears off. Most people tolerate upper endoscopy very well and feel fine afterward. It is normal to feel tired afterward. The most common complaint after the endoscopy is a feeling of bloating as a result of air introduced during the examination. Thiis will resolve quickly. Some people experience mild sore throat affter the procedure.

After the driver or the person accompanying you picks you up, you can take it easy and relax for the rest of the day. Do not return to work, drive, or drink alcohol that day. You can return to work the next day.

Most people are able to eat normally after the procedure. If you were asked to discontinue medications that your were previously taking, discuss with your doctor about a safe time to restart them.

Call your doctor immediately if you experience any of these after the procedure:

  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Firm or bloated abdomen
  • Vomiting
  • Fever
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Severe throat pain
  • Passing of red blood or black material in vomit or stool
Can I drive back home after the upper endoscopy procedure?
No. You will not be allowed to drive back home. The arranged person accompanying you will pick you up after the procedure and will drive you back home. You should not drive that day.
When should I call my doctor after the upper endoscopy procedure?

Call your doctor immediately if you experience any of these after the procedure:

  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Firm or bloated abdomen
  • Vomiting
  • Fever
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Severe throat pain
  • Passing of red blood or black material in vomit or stool
Sigmoidoscopy
What is a flexible sigmoidoscopy?
A flexible sigmoidoscopy is is a safe procedure used to examine the colon or rectum for any abnormalities. The sigmoidoscope, which is a tube approximately the size of one finger, is inserted into the rectum to view the lower parts of the colon, refered to as the sigmoid colon and descending colon. This procedure usually takes between 5 and 15 minutes.
What happens during a flexible sigmoidoscopy?

A sigmoidoscopy is a brief procedure with mild discomfort, so pain medications and sedatives may not be used. After you understand the procedure and the reason for the procedure and sign the consent form, you will be asked to lie on your left side with your legs bent. The sigmoidoscope, a tube used to view the lower parts of the colon, is inserted into the rectum. The doctor performing the procedure may introduce air or fluids through the scope to advance the scope and see the lining. The doctor can see the inside of your colon on a television monitor.
Your doctor may take a biopsy or remove polyps. A biopsy is a small tissue sample that is taken if anything looks abnormal. The tissue sample will be sent to the lab for further testing. Polyps are growths of tissue that can range in size from the tip of a pen to several inches. They can be benign (not cancerous) or pre-cancerous (can become cancerous if allowed to grow for a long time). You will not experience pain while the biopsies are taken or while a polyp is removed. The lining of the colon does not sense pain.

What are the reasons for doing a flexible sigmoidoscopy?

The most common reasons for doing a sigmoidoscopy are:

  • Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
  • Persistent diarrhea
  • Examining the colon in conjuction with a barium enema
  • Inflammation of the colon, also known as Colitis
What should I do 5 days prior to the flexible sigmoidoscopy procedure?

Starting 5 days prior to the procedure:- Discontinue iron pills and multi-vitamins unless otherwise instructed by your doctor.

Click here to read more.

What should I do 3 days prior to the flexible sigmoidoscopy procedure?

Starting 3 days prior to the procedure:

  • Stop taking blood thinners UNLESS OTHERWISE INSTRUCTED by your doctor.
  • Continue not taking iron tablets and multi-vitamins unless otherwise instructed by your doctor.
  • Let your doctor know if you cannot make it to the appointment. Please allow at least 3 days notice if you need to cancel or reschedule.

Click here to read more.

What should I do 1 day prior to the flexible sigmoidoscopy procedure?

The lower part of the colon must be cleaned so that your doctor can see the inside lining of the colon. Following these instructions aids in the clearing of the colon which allows your doctor to see if there are any abnormalities:

  • Do not eat or drink anything after midnight.
  • Do not take insulin or diabetic medications the night before or the day of the procedure unless otherwise instructed by your doctor.
  • Please arrange for a driver to pick you up after the procedure. You may not be permitted to drive after the procedure if you are receiving sedatives. Not having a designated driver may result in your procedure being cancelled.

Click here to read more.

What should I do on the day of the sigmoidoscopy procedure?

The lower part of the colon must be cleaned so that your doctor can see the inside lining of the colon. Following these instructions aids in the clearing of the colon which allows your doctor to see if there are any abnormalities:

  • If you have a morning procedure you should not drink anything, NOT EVEN WATER! If your procedure is in the AFTERNOON, you may have clear liquids UP UNTIL 2 HOURS PRIOR TO THE TIME OF YOUR PROCEDURE. A clear liquid is a liquid you can hold up to the light and see through. Some examples include water, clear broth, ices, gelatin, coffee or tea without milk, apple juice, jell-O, and Gatorade. Avoid red and/or purple colored jell-O and Gatorade. Do not drink or eat anything red or purple.
  • If you are taking blood pressure or heart medications, pain medications, and/or breathing or seizure medications, you should take them with enough water to swallow pills. Insulin and diabetic medications should not be taken the night before or the day of the procedure unless otherwise instructed by your doctor.
  • Please arrange for a driver to pick you up after the procedure. You may not be permitted to drive after the procedure if you are receiving sedatives. Not having a designated driver may result in your procedure being cancelled.

Click here regarding instructions to follow on the day of the procedure:

What should I wear for the procedure?
Wear loose, comfortable clothing that will be easy to change. You will be required to change into a hospital gown for your procedure. Do not wear jewelry or nail polish. Nail polish should be removed to allow for an easier monitoring of your oxygen level from your fingertip.
How many days before the scheduled procedure can I cancel the appointment if I wish to?
If you need to cancel your procedure, you must cancel 3 to 5 business days (1 week) in advance. You need to allow at least 3 days notice to cancel or reschedule.
Do I need to discontinue prescription and non-preprescription medicines prior to the sigmoidoscopy procedure?

Some medications may need to be discontinued prior to the procedure, as per the instructions provided by your doctor. Do not stop any medications without first talking with your doctor. Medications that may be discontinued include:

  • Blood thinners: blood thinners are generally stopped 3 days prior to the procedure unless otherwise instructed by your doctor. These include Coumadin, Plavix, Eliquis, aspirin, or aspirin products.
  • Iron pills and multi-vitamins: these medications are generally stopped 5 days prior to the procedure unless otherwise instructed by your doctor.
  • Insulin and diabetic medications should not be taken the night before or the day of the procedure unless otherwise instructed by your doctor.
Can I eat or drink 1 day prior to or on the day of the flexible sigmoidoscopy procedure?

1 day prior to the procedure – You should not eat or drink anything after midnight.
On the day of the procedure – If you have a morning procedure you should not eat or drink anything, NOT EVEN WATER! If your procedure is in the AFTERNOON, you may have clear liquids UP UNTIL 2 HOURS PRIOR TO THE TIME OF YOUR PROCEDURE.

What are clear liquids?
A clear liquid is a liquid you can hold up to the light and see through. Some examples include water, clear broth, ices, gelatin, coffee or tea without milk, apple juice, Jell-O, and Gatorade. Avoid red and/or purple colored Jell-O and Gatorade.
3. Building Continuous, Coordinated, Collaborative Care

You are assigned a care team comprising of nutrition and health experts who help you set realistic and achievable health goals.

They customize their support to your health needs, hand hold you, and tweak your program as they become more familiar with your lifestyle through continuous communication andmonitoring all the metrics you track in the app. The digital health assistant also provides mindful nudges and insights into your health and habits.

Can I have clear liquids on the day of the procedure?
On the day of the procedure, If you have a morning procedure, do not eat or drink anything including water before the procedure. If your procedure is in the afternoon, you may have clear liquids up until 2 hours prior to the procedure.
Why should I avoid anything red or purple before a sigmoidoscopy procedure?
Red- and purple-colored foods discolor the stool and interfere with the colonoscopy, so these foods should be avoided.
Why should I avoid alcohol before a sigmoidoscopy?

Here are the main reasons why alcohol should be avoided:

– Alcohol is dehydrating, and you will be losing fluids due to the sigmoidoscopy prep. Alcohol causes your body to remove fluids from your blood at a much quicker rate than other liquids

– Alcohol may interact with the sedatives used during the procedure. Avoid all alcoholic beverages regardless of if they are clear or not

Why should I avoid dairy products before a sigmoidoscopy?
Traces of milk and other dairy products can hide a possible polyp in the walls of the colon.
Why is it important to follow bowel prep instructions before a sigmoidoscopy procedure?
A sigmoidoscopy is done to look at abnormalities in the lower parts of the colon. Your colon must be completely cleaned out in order to increase the chances that your doctor will see any abnormal areas within the colon. The bowel preps are necessary because these laxatives clean out the colon.
When should I arrive for the appointment?
Make sure you arrive at the time suggested by your doctor on the day of the procedure. The suggested time is generally 15 to 20 minutes earlier than the appointment, but this varies from clinic to clinic.
What happens after a flexible sigmoidoscopy?

Most people tolerate the procedure very well and feel fine afterwards. If you were asked to discontinue medications that you were previously taking, talk to your doctor regarding the safe time to restart them. Most people are able to eat normally and return to normal activities after the procedure. If you have received sedatives during the procedure, do not return to work, drive, or drink alcohol that day. You can return to work the next day.
Call your doctor immediately if you experience any of these after the procedure:

  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Firm or bloated abdomen
  • Vomiting
  • Fever
  • Rectal bleeding (greater than a couple of tablespoons or 30 ml)
Can I drive back home after the sigmoidoscopy procedure?
Driving back home after the procedure depends on whether you have received sedatives during the procedure or not. Check with your doctor in advance and arrange for someone to pick you up after the procedure as per your doctor’s instructions.
When should I call my doctor after the flexible sigmoidoscopy procedure?

Call your doctor immediately if you experience any of these after the procedure:

  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Firm or bloated abdomen
  • Vomiting
  • Fever
  • Rectal bleeding (greater than a couple of tablespoons or 30 ml)
Hemorrhoid Banding
What is Hemorrhoid Banding?
Hemorrhoidal Banding, also called Rubber band ligation, is a minimally invasive procedure where rubber bands or rings are placed around the base of hemorrhoid. Hemorrhoids are enlarged or swollen veins in the lower rectum. Itching, pain, and rectal bleeding are the common symptoms of hemorrhoids.
What happens during Hemorrhoid Banding?

A small tool called the ligator through a lighted tube (scope) is inserted into the anal canal. The hemorrhoid is grasped with forceps. The rubber bands are placed around the base of the hemorrhoid with the help of a ligator’s cylinder. Rubber bands cut off the hemorrhoid’s blood supply which causes it to shrink and drop off in 2 to 4 days.

What are the reasons for doing Hemorrhoid Banding ?

Hemorrhoid banding is the most widely used procedure for treating hemorrhoids not responding to non-surgical treatment. This procedure relieves symptoms in most people.

What should I do 5 days prior to the Hemorrhoid Banding procedure?

Starting 5 days prior to the procedure:- Discontinue iron pills and multi-vitamins unless otherwise instructed by your doctor

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What should I do 3 days prior to the Hemorrhoid Banding procedure?

Starting 3 days prior to the procedure:

  • Stop taking blood thinners UNLESS OTHERWISE INSTRUCTED by your doctor.
  • Continue not taking iron tablets and multi-vitamins unless otherwise instructed by your doctor.
  • Let your doctor know if you cannot make it to the appointment. Please allow at least 3 days notice if you need to cancel or reschedule.

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What should I do 1 day prior to the Hemorrhoid Banding procedure?

The lower part of the colon must be cleaned for the procedure. Following these instructions aids in the clearing of the colon.

  • Do not eat or drink anything after midnight.
  • Do not take insulin or diabetic medications the night before or the day of the procedure unless otherwise instructed by your doctor.
  • Please arrange for a driver to pick you up after the procedure. You may not be permitted to drive after the procedure if you are receiving sedatives. Not having a designated driver may result in your procedure being cancelled.

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What should I do on the day of the Hemorrhoid Banding procedure?

Here are instructions on the day of the procedure:

  • If you have a morning procedure you should not drink anything, NOT EVEN WATER! If your procedure is in the AFTERNOON, you may have clear liquids UP UNTIL 2 HOURS PRIOR TO THE TIME OF YOUR PROCEDURE. A clear liquid is a liquid you can hold up to the light and see through. Some examples include water, clear broth, ices, gelatin, coffee or tea without milk, apple juice, Jell-O, and Gatorade. Avoid red and/or purple-colored Jell-O and Gatorade. Do not drink or eat anything red or purple.
  • If you are taking blood pressure or heart medications, pain medications, and/or breathing or seizure medications, you should take them with enough water to swallow pills. Insulin and diabetic medications should not be taken the night before or the day of the procedure unless otherwise instructed by your doctor.
  • Please arrange for a driver to pick you up after the procedure. You may not be permitted to drive after the procedure if you are receiving sedatives. Not having a designated driver may result in your procedure being canceled.

Click here to read more.

What should I wear for the procedure?
Wear loose, comfortable clothing that will be easy to change. You will be required to change into a hospital gown for your procedure. Do not wear jewelry or nail polish. Nail polish should be removed to allow for an easier monitoring of your oxygen level from your fingertip.
How many days before the scheduled procedure can I cancel the appointment if I wish to?

If you need to cancel your procedure, you must cancel 3 to 5 business days (1 week) in advance. You need to allow at least 3 days notice to cancel or reschedule.

Do I need to discontinue prescription and non-prescription medicines prior to the Hemorrhoid Banding procedure?

Some medications may need to be discontinued prior to the procedure, as per the instructions provided by your doctor. Do not stop any medications without first talking with your doctor. Medications that may be discontinued include:

  • Blood thinners: blood thinners are generally stopped 3 days prior to the procedure unless otherwise instructed by your doctor. These include Coumadin, Plavix, Eliquis, aspirin, or aspirin products
  • Iron pills and multi-vitamins: these medications are generally stopped 5 days prior to the procedure unless otherwise instructed by your doctor
  • Insulin and diabetic medications should not be taken the night before or the day of the procedure unless otherwise instructed by your doctor
Can I eat or drink 1 day prior to or on the day of the Hemorrhoid Banding procedure?

1 day prior to the procedure – You should not eat or drink anything after midnight.
On the day of the procedure – If you have a morning procedure you should not eat or drink anything, NOT EVEN WATER! If your procedure is in the AFTERNOON, you may have clear liquids UP UNTIL 2 HOURS PRIOR TO THE TIME OF YOUR PROCED. A clear liquid is a liquid you can hold up to the light and see through. Some examples include water, clear broth, ices, gelatin, coffee or tea without milk, apple juice, jell-O, and Gatorade. Avoid red and/or purple colored jell-O and Gatorade.

What are clear liquids?
A clear liquid is a liquid you can hold up to the light and see through. Some examples include water, clear broth, ices, gelatin, coffee or tea without milk, apple juice, jell-O, and Gatorade. Avoid red and/or purple colored jell-O and Gatorade.
Can I have clear liquids on the day of the procedure?
On the day of the procedure, If you have a morning procedure, do not eat or drink anything including water before the procedure. If your procedure is in the afternoon, you may have clear liquids up until 2 hours prior to the procedure.
Why should I avoid anything red or purple before a Hemorrhoid Banding procedure?
Red- and purple-colored foods discolor the stool and interfere with the procedure, so these foods should be avoided.
Why should I avoid alcohol before a Hemorrhoid Banding procedure?

Here are the main reasons why alcohol should be avoided:

  • Alcohol is dehydrating, and you will be losing fluids due to the prep. Alcohol causes your body to remove fluids from your blood at a much quicker rate than other liquids
  • Alcohol may interact with the sedatives used during the procedure. Avoid all alcoholic beverages regardless of if they are clear or not
Why is it important to follow bowel prep instructions before a Hemorrhoid Banding procedure?
Your colon must be completely cleaned out for the procedure to go as expected. Bowel preps are necessary because these laxatives clean out the colon.
When should I arrive for the appointment?

Make sure you arrive at the time suggested by your doctor on the day of the procedure. The suggested time is generally 15 to 20 minutes earlier than the appointment, but this varies from clinic to clinic.

What happens after a Hemorrhoid Banding procedure?

Many people report a sense of “tightness” or “dull ache” after the procedure. This is due to the placement of the band around the base of hemorrhoid. This may improve with warm sitz baths. The band may make you feel as if you need a bowel movement. It is advised not to move your bowels for 2 hours after the procedure to avoid pushing the band off. The rubber band falls off usually two to four days after the procedure which improves the pain but may cause bleeding. In some cases, a raw and sore area develops five to seven days following the procedure.

Call your doctor immediately if you experience severe discomfort, fever, difficulty urinating.

Can I drive back home after the Hemorrhoid Banding procedure?
Driving back home after the procedure depends on whether you have received sedatives during the procedure or not. Check with your doctor in advance and arrange for someone to pick you up after the procedure as per your doctor’s instructions.
When should I call my doctor after the Hemorrhoid Banding procedure?
You should call your doctor immediately if you experience severe discomfort, fever, difficulty urinating
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