, you may need to know how enemas work and how to use them. This article provides information on what is an enema, how to use enema, types of enemas and research about enema use. Enema (pronounced EN-un-muh) is used as a verb and noun in English: it is used to denote the enema device and the action of taking an enema. Colonic or high colonic are synonymous with enema. Show
What is an Enema?According to those who advocate the use of them, enemas remove toxins and waste from the colon. Many healthy people can eliminate fecal waste without the use of enemas. However, not everyone has the benefit of eliminating waste this effectively. Proponents say that poor elimination can lead to the development of health issues, including skin conditions (e.g. psoriasis and eczema), allergies, sinus issues, bad breath, indigestion, back pain, hemorrhoids, depression, headaches, and fatigue. Enema for constipationMany people buy an enema for an occasional constipation. Constipation is a common problem that many people will experience throughout their lives. A visit to the doctor is likely to result in suggestions like, eat more fiber or exercise more. Once you have tried these alternatives, your doctor may recommend a home enema to relieve temporary symptoms associated with a sluggish colon, such as bloating and discomfort. It is recommended to discuss a constipation problem with your medical provider before using an enema. He or she may have additional suggestions to relieve constipation, but enemas are also a great alternative to helping relieve such pressure in your body. How Does an Enema Work?Most people want to know how to use enema. They may be concerned about the insertion of an OTC enema or Enema fleet nozzle, or have questions about how long it will take for the enema to work. Questions about how to use enema may involve disrupting healthy intestinal bacteria. You may also have concerns about whether an enema will disrupt the intestinal microbiome. If the individual has recently taken an antibiotic or chemotherapy, he or she may need to restore healthy bacteria in the large intestine. How to use enema to treat constipation, deliver medicines, or prepare for a medical procedureAn enema introduces liquid, often mineral oil, salt water, or laxative, through the user’s anus to the large intestine. In addition to treating constipation, an enema may be used to administer medicines or barium. An enema may also be used to empty the user’s bowel before a procedure such as a colonoscopy.
What type of enema will my doctor prescribe?With the variety of enema’s available on the market, it’s always good to understand the various types available. It’s also best to ask your doctor if you have questions about the best type of enema for you. Typically, your doctor will recommend one of the following types of enemas:
What types of medications are delivered with an enema?In many cases, the various enemas available deliver different types of medication. Your doctor may recommend the delivery of medicines with an enema:
If your doctor prescribes medicine to be delivered with an enema, follow his or her directions with care.
How Do I Use an Enema?The burning questions of how to use an enema can be straightforward but the experience will likely be different for everyone. Before jumping directly to use, make sure to have clean towels, a place to lie down, and an enema kit on hand. It’s recommended to clear your schedule for at least several hours after taking the enema:
After you have allowed for the appropriate timing to pass, you’ll want to evacuate the bowels. One of the best tips is to remain close to the toilet for at least 30 to 60 minutes after voiding the bowels. This helps in the case of any accidents occurring. The enema liquid is typically held in the rectum for a period of time. Most often, it is held until the user experiences the need to move his or her bowels. When it is time, the enema liquid and rectal waste are released by passing a bowel movement on the toilet. Call your healthcare provider immediately if you cannot complete the enema for any reason. It may be necessary to ask your doctor or nurse to administer the enema in his or her office. What is the Research About Enemas?There is little scientific proof to support the claims of proponents concerning the promised health benefits of enemas:
What are the Side Effects and Safety Concerns of Enemas?Enemas are known to trigger side effects, such as diarrhea, dizziness, nausea, fainting, or vomiting. Some enema types are associated with heart attack, electrolyte imbalances, and tachycardia (rapid heart rate). Additional risks associated with enema use include rectal perforation. Improper insertion of the nozzle into the rectum can cause damage to the user’s internal organs. An improperly administered or prepared enema may also result in infection. Overuse of enemas may also result in weakened bowel muscles. This may interfere with the body’s ability to pass normal and regular bowel movements. Please keep this in mind when using enema’s. Are There Alternatives to Enemas?There are no direct replacements to enema’s but there are some activities you can perform that could potentially help you. Enema’s should not be looked at as a last resort, but sometimes these activities can help you from using one. Make sure to ask your doctor about alternatives to the use of enemas. Some of these suggestions could include:
Before making the decision to use any alternative medicine, including an enema, to treat a chronic or worrisome health condition, consult your medical provider first. Sources Understanding Colonoscopy Medications for Ulcerative Colitis Probiotics
On to youDo you have any experience using an enema or have you administered them to someone? Let us know in the comments below if you have any questions and we hope you found this article valuable. Always feel free to call us directly if you have any questions as well at (1) 866-923-1544.
-Marc Kaplan CEO, Save Rite Medical ____________________ Marc Kaplan is founder and CEO of Save Rite Medical — the leading provider of wholesale medical supplies. A salesman by day and educator by night, Marc enjoys providing valuable ways and alternatives to living a healthier lifestyle. How long should I hold my enema?Connect the catheter to the enema bag. Now, open the tube clamp and allow the enema to flow in for 5–10 minutes. You can close the clamp a little to slow down the enema flow. Hold the fluid in for 5–10 minutes.
How long after enema does poop come out?An enema is a treatment people use to flush out the contents of their bowels. An enema can take a few minutes to begin working, but a person should stay near a toilet for roughly 1 hour.
Does an enema get everything out?A cleansing enema should stimulate the bowels to quickly expel both the solution and any impacted fecal matter. A retention enema also stimulates the bowels, but the solution that is used is intended to be “held” in the body for 15 minutes or more.
How long should you hold an enema in water?The enema usually takes 15 minutes to work but may take up to an hour. Start the enemas one and a half hours (90 minutes) before leaving home for your appointment at the University of Michigan Health System. Make sure you have an enema bag ready at home before the day of the test.
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