Researchers call it a potential "game-changer"
The same goes for women who have gyno appointments. Having intimate relations won't affect your Pap smear test, for instance.
It's normal to be nervous when you have a medical appointment, so it's better to think ahead and write down any questions beforehand.
The same goes for iron supplements. You should also avoid these as iron can stain the walls of the colon.
Doing so won't have an impact on any urine, testicles, or prostate exams.
It's okay. Gynos are used to it, so there is no need to be embarrassed about it. Even smear tests can now be done when the woman is menstruating.
On a mammogram, aluminium looks similar to breast calcifications, so it could be read as such, giving a false positive result.
The only exception is if you're seeing your gyno because of a specific thing that can be masked by your period (e.g. discharge).
Yes, that bowl of cherries can color your colon. So, just avoid any red and purple foods.
Avoiding exercise that you're not usually used to do is also advisable, as this can lead to further dehydration.
Nails can give clues to a number of conditions, so it's important to keep them clean, without any kind of polish.
Medicines can have an impact on how you feel, on your blood pressure, and can ease your symptoms. This won't give the doctor a clear picture of your health.
Dermatologists can check your entire body, and this includes your nails.
Even if you're worried about your cholesterol and blood sugar, changing eating habits for a few days probably won't have a big impact, so you might as well just eat as you normally would.
Being dehydrated can have an impact on your pulse and blood pressure, so make sure you drink enough water.
Avoid drinking coffee or any other caffeinated drinks at least within an hour before your appointment.
If your cholesterol and blood sugar is getting tested, you should not eat for eight to 10 hours beforehand.
Caffeine can increase your blood pressure, so the measurement won't be accurate.
Especially if you don't usually eat high-fat meals. This can have an impact on the results.
The same goes for makeup. Avoid anything that will cover your skin, so the doctor can spot any potential problems more accurately.
Avoid using deodorant/antiperspirant on the day you're getting your mammography done. This is because most of them contain aluminium.
Alcohol alters your triglycerides, so it's best to avoid consuming any 24 hours prior to a cholesterol test.
It's important to be hydrated before getting a physical.
Don't get too thirsty before a urine test as this can compromise the results.
The same applies to tobacco products and over-the-counter decongestants.
Don't change your eating habits before an appointment. It's important to have a clear picture of your diet and the impact it has on your health.
Stress tests are designed to measure the condition of your heart. But if your stress test includes medicines such as adenosine or regadenosine, it's best to avoid caffeine.
If you're sick, it's important for your physician to assess your symptoms as accurately as possible.
Click through this gallery and be better prepared the next time you go for a medical appointment.
Never do these things before a medical appointment
What not to do before seeing a doctor
HEALTH Doctors
Did you know that you shouldn't drink coffee before getting your blood pressure measured? Or that deodorant can give you a false positive on a mammogram? There are a number of things you should and shouldn't do before seeing a doctor or going through specific medical exams.
Click through this gallery and be better prepared the next time you go for a medical appointment.