Medically reviewed by Qin Rao, MD Key Takeaways You need to follow a special diet and may take laxatives to clean out your ...

You followed your doctor's recommendation to get a colonoscopy. Now how do you prepare for the procedure?

For those approaching or over age 45, the very word—colonoscopy—can elicit waves of dread. However, these screenings truly save lives. Colonoscopies are considered the “gold standard” for screening.

If you’re strict about your fitness routine but you’re about to have a colonoscopy, you might find it reassuring to know that you’ll likely be advised to avoid working out for a mere 24 hours.

John Gleason is administrator and Gail Wells, RN, is director of outpatient clinical operations at the Berks Center for Digestive Health in Wyomissing, Pa., a partner with Physicians Endoscopy since ...