Colonoscopy Aftercare Instructions
A day-by-day recovery guide for colonoscopy: what to expect, how to care for yourself, and when to call. Free to read and print.
Colonoscopy recovery, day by day
After the Procedure
- You may feel bloated or gassy from the air used during the procedure
- Start with clear liquids, advance to light meals as tolerated
- Do NOT drive for 24 hours after sedation
- Rest for the remainder of the day
Recovery
- Resume normal diet and activities
- Some mild cramping or bloating may persist
- Contact us if you experience severe pain, heavy bleeding, or fever
When to call your provider or 911
- •Call your care team today if you notice: Severe abdominal pain
- •Call your care team today if you notice: Heavy rectal bleeding
- •Call your care team today if you notice: Fever above 101°F
- •Call your care team today if you notice: Persistent nausea or vomiting
When in doubt, call your clinic. For a medical emergency, call 911.
Recovery milestones
- Day 1
Recovery Progress Check
Notice what is improving, unchanged, or worsening. Contact the care team if symptoms are getting worse or the next step is unclear.
- Day 2
Ongoing Recovery Review
Review any remaining symptoms or restrictions with the care team before changing your routine.
For clinics
Stop photocopying aftercare sheets.
QR Rx sends this exact colonoscopy recovery plan to every patient, branded to your practice, opened by a QR code. It checks in automatically, answers post-op questions, asks for a review at the right moment, and brings patients back for their next visit. The aftercare you already owe every patient, doing the work of keeping them.
HIPAA compliant. No card, no contract.