FAQs
Gastroenterology is the study of the normal function and diseases of the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon and rectum, pancreas, gallbladder, bile ducts and liver.
We rarely schedule patients for endoscopies or biopsies without consultation first. We believe a thoughtful consideration of your problem and full discussion of the risks and benefits of any test are important before setting up a procedure.
Your first visit to WestGlen GI Consultants will allow one of our Providers to evaluate your symptoms. As part of that consultation, our specialist may request additional tests or procedures such as blood test, imaging studies, or endoscopic examinations for diagnosis or treatment. A treatment plan may also be prescribed along with follow-up care.
If you have previous medical records dealing with the reason you are being referred, please arrange to have those records forwarded to our office from your referring physician as early as possible or, better yet, bring copies with you, especially if your initial appointment is less than one week away. Failure to provide previous laboratory and x-ray results makes it difficult for our providers to make accurate decisions about your care and may result in unnecessary delay in your evaluation.
A clear liquid diet consists of clear liquids — such as water, broth and plain gelatin — that are easily digested and leave no undigested residue in your intestinal tract.
- Water (plain, carbonated or flavored)
- Fruit juices without pulp, such as apple or white grape juice
- Lemonade
- Carbonated drinks, including dark sodas (cola and root beer)
- Gelatin (Jell-O) without fruit
- Tea or coffee without milk or cream
- Sports drinks
- Clear, fat-free broth (bouillon or consommé)
- Popsicles
- No solid foods
- Milk
- Alcohol
- Anything RED, ORANGE or PURPLE
You may use sugar or sugar substitutes in your drinks during your clear liquid diet.
No, please avoid all dairy products including milk, cream and powdered creamer.
Alcoholic beverages can cause dehydration, so we strongly suggest you do not drink any alcohol during your bowel prep.
Red coloring can imitate blood in the colon. To help ensure an accurate exam, these liquids should be avoided.
You can take a short break from drinking the prep. Try drinking ginger ale or another clear liquid to help settle your stomach. Also, try drinking the prep slowly or through a straw. Continue your prep when the feeling has subsided.
Yes, you may apply Desitin, baby wipes, Vaseline, tucks or any other cream during the prep. Avoid products containing alcohol.
You should begin having bowel movements within 1-3 hours of beginning your prep. If you are having regular, loose stools the prep is working. The bowel movements should continue to get looser and will eventually be yellow, watery and clear.
Yes, it is safe to have a colonoscopy while you are having your period and it will not interfere with the procedure.
You should wear comfortable clothes you can easily take off and on. You will be given a gown to wear during the procedure.
Due to the sedation given during the procedure, you are considered legally impaired. The sedation medication impairs your judgment and reflexes. You will not be permitted to drive for 12 hours following your procedure.
The entire procedure usually takes less than an hour. You should plan to be at the facility for approximately 2 to 2 1/2 hours. The amount of time may vary from patient to patient, depending on how much sedation is needed and how you feel afterwards.
Unless your Physician gives you dietary restrictions, you will be able to resume a normal diet immediately after your procedure. Occasionally, there is mild nausea from the sedative medications. You may not have a full appetite until the following day.
Due to the sedation given during the procedure, you should plan to rest at home for the remainder of the day. Most patients can return to work the following day.
Because your intestines were completely cleaned out for your procedure, it may take a couple of days of eating solid foods before you have a bowl movement.