Similarly, there are reports of children being given acidic hydrogen peroxide enemas, which resulted in an inflamed colon, bloody diarrhea, vomiting, and long-term complications Furthermore, in some people, herbal enemas have caused internal bleeding that required a blood transfusion and removal of the colon 1. The use of dirty tools increases your risk of contracting a potentially dangerous infection. Improper tool use may also cause physical damage to your rectum, anus, or colon.
Studies indicate that perforation of the bowel is not a rare complication of frequent enema use that could put your internal organs at risk of infection 3 , 12 , Sterile enema injection kits, which usually include a bucket, tubing, solution, and sometimes a bulb, can be found online or at many local drug stores. They come with directions for cleaning and safe use. Though enemas can be safe and effective, they come with many risks, especially when administered at home.
Improperly used enemas can cause potentially life-threatening physical and chemical damage to your rectum or colon. Some potential alternatives to enemas, which can promote waste excretion and bowel regularity, include 20 , 21 , 22 , 23 :.
If you have severe constipation or other medical issues, speak to your medical provider to determine whether an enema would be a safe and appropriate treatment. Less risky alternatives to enemas that can help stimulate bowel movements include staying hydrated, getting regular exercise, and following a healthy, high-fiber diet.
Enemas are used to relieve constipation and cleanse the colon. Water- or oil-based solutions are injected into the bowel through your rectum to expel impacted waste. Mild enemas like water or saline carry the least risk, but you should consult your healthcare provider before using one at home. Furthermore, ensuring the proper use of sterile injection tools is very important for safety.
Many people swear by enemas to promote regularity and prevent constipation , but evidence of their effectiveness is limited. This is typically a…. If administered properly with sanitized tools and appropriate solution, administering an enema at home is considered safe.
But there are precautions…. Probiotic enemas are a way to administer probiotics through your rectum. Some people believe that doing this can provide many health benefits, from…. A soap suds enema can help treat stubborn cases of constipation or clear out the bowels before a procedure. Epsom salt has been used as a natural remedy for hundreds of years. Learn more about its uses, benefits and side effects.
Enema administration is a technique used to stimulate stool evacuation. It is a liquid treatment most commonly used to help relieve severe…. It is best to check with a doctor before using an enema, as people have varying needs, and different products do not suit everyone.
According to the Canadian Society of Intestinal Research , medicinal uses include:. According to a article , the concept of using an enema comes from the historical theory of autointoxication.
This theory suggests that toxins and other waste products of digestion collect in the colon from where they may reabsorb into the body. Some people suggest that using an enema can reduce the time toxins spend in the colon and boost health, as a result. Others believe enemas may play a role in treating conditions such as cancer. However, the Canadian Society of Intestinal Research state that evidence for the health benefits of using an enema for detoxification is limited. They warn that other than for medicinal purposes, using an enema at home can be dangerous if a person does not do it correctly.
If a person chooses to use an enema at home, they should set aside enough time so that they do not rush the process. It is best not to eat for at least 30 minutes before starting the process. After injecting the fluid, the individual should lie on their back and try to hold it in for as long as they can. They will usually be unable to keep their bowels closed for more than 5 minutes. Regardless of how quickly the enema works, the individual should stay near the bathroom in case they need to pass the contents of their bowels again for the remainder of the hour.
A person may find that they are unable to have a bowel movement after using an enema. If this happens, they must seek medical attention.
A doctor can examine the contents of the bowel and may suggest using a second enema. A healthcare professional might perform a barium enema if they want to see the outline of the large intestine. This enema uses a solution that contains barium, which coats the intestinal wall and helps to show the shape of the digestive tract on an X-ray.
Sodium phosphate laxatives draw water into the bowel, softening the stool, making it easier to pass.
This is because they can cause dehydration or abnormal levels of electrolytes in the blood. These potential side effects can lead to serious complications, including kidney damage.
According to one article , a soap sud enema is typically safe to use. According to DailyMed , a person should try to hold in the enema for 5 minutes. Though there is little scientific evidence to support this, coffee enemas are popular in treating :.
A study on management of constipation in older adults suggests warm water enemas are safe. Bowel movements are infrequent and often painful. Lots of things can cause constipation. Common causes include not getting enough fiber, fluids or insufficient exercise. However, constipation can also result from a more serious medical condition.
There are several things you can do to help prevent constipation, such as eating a well-balanced diet with plenty of fiber, drinking lots of fluids and getting plenty of exercise. The Institute of Medicine of the National Academies recommends 38 grams of fiber for adult men and 25 grams of fiber for adult women. Federal Register Vol.
Rectal laxatives provide immediate relief and are a good alternative for someone who cannot take oral medication. Some enemas can work in 5 minutes or less, while suppositories work within an hour. Although enemas and suppositories are often doctor-recommended, our products are over-the-counter, it is not necessary to have a doctor prescribe the type of laxative best suited to your needs.
For more information, please visit www. An enema is a delivery method that introduces a volume of liquid into the rectum.
Enemas can act as a laxative and can be used for the relief of constipation. Enemas can be used prior to a medical procedure when prescribed by your doctor. All enemas should be administered rectally, NOT orally. Please refer to each product page for relief times. Enema solution should be held until the urge to evacuate is strong.
See drug facts for additional information. Call a doctor promptly after using a saline enema and no liquid comes out of the rectum after 30 minutes, because dehydration could occur. The best positions are either lying down on your left side, on your back or in a knee to chest position.
View Diagram. The enema can be used up to three days in a row before consulting a physician. If you have not received relief after three days of use, please contact your doctor. Using more than one enema within 24 hours can be harmful. If there is no bowel movement after 5 minutes of using, try to empty bowel. Adult-sized enemas should not be used for children under age
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