Colonic is an Ideal Preparation for Colonoscopy

For years, doctors have routinely recommended a colonoscopy for people when they turn 50. This procedure, which inspects the colon for polyps or any abnormalities, is critical in preventing colon cancer and other conditions. In the days before the procedure, doctors ask their patients to prepare by using laxatives and colon cleansers and to adhere to a liquid diet.

However, many patients dislike the discomfort associated with laxatives and oral sodium phosphate bowel cleansers. Laxatives can cause abdominal pain and diarrhea. For this reasons some patients may avoid a colonoscopy.

However, some gastroenterologists are administering colon hydrotherapy as a more comfortable alternative to bowel cleansers. Colon Hydrotherapy, also known as a colonic, is a gentle, natural procedure of cleansing the colon with warm purified water. This is done within a few hours before the colonoscopy appointment by a trained specialist.

The video below discusses how one Danbury, Connecticut Gastroenterologist uses Colon Hydrotherapy as preparation for a colonoscopy.

Also, there are other risks associated with using bowel cleansers. The Food and Drug Association (FDA) warns against using oral sodium phosphate bowel cleansers because of a risk of kidney failure in some patients. Although this is rare, the elderly and those taking renal medications are at higher risk.

This video from the FDA discusses the risks associated with sodium phosphate cleansers