What should happen after an enema

Enemas have been popular for a long, long time. As humans paid more attention to cleaning themselves, it seemed logical to think that the place where waste left the body might require internal cleaning. However, today, there is controversy around enemas. Some celebrities, most of whom are not medical experts, claim that enemas are a cure-all with detoxifying and cleansing superpowers, but physicians are speaking out against the harms of certain popular enemas.

An enema is a procedure that involves injecting a liquid, or occasionally a gas, into the rectum via the anus to either administer medication or flush out colon contents. Humans have been using enemas for thousands of years. The oldest record of enema use comes from Egypt, mentioned in the Ebers Papyrus, a document written more than 3, years ago. Throughout time, people have had many reasons for using enemas, such as for providing nourishment to those unable to eat, ingesting intoxicants, torture, ritualistic or religious cleansing, sexual activity, and attempting to remedy various digestive ailments.

In this section, we will outline common and effective uses of the enema. One of the most common medical uses of the enema is to administer medication directly to the source. Individuals with ulcerative colitis experience inflammation only in the rectum and large intestine. Carbon dioxide-releasing: A suppository agent that contains ingredients that release carbon dioxide, which then induces gentle pressure in the rectum and promotes a bowel movement.

Hyperosmotic: An agent that attracts water into the stool and promotes a bowel movement. Lubricant: An agent that lubricates the contents of the intestinal tract, which coats the stool mass to keep moisture in, thereby helping to soften the stool mass and make it easier to pass. Saline: An agent that increases water in the intestine, which promotes a bowel movement. Stimulant: An agent that promotes a bowel movement by directly acting on the intestine. A Laxatives are chosen by individual preference or at the recommendation of your physician.

A Rectal laxatives provide immediate relief and are a good alternative for someone who cannot take oral medication. A 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.

Q What is an enema? A An enema is a delivery method that introduces a volume of liquid into the rectum. A Enema solution should be held until the urge to evacuate is strong. A No, the enema is disposable and designed to be used only once.

A The enema should be inserted into the rectum and nowhere else. A The best positions are either lying down on your left side, on your back or in a knee to chest position. A The enema can be used up to three days in a row before consulting a physician. A If there is no bowel movement after 5 minutes of using, try to empty bowel. A Adult-sized enemas should not be used for children under age A Mineral oil helps lubricate and soften the stool.

A Bisacodyl is a stimulant laxative that works directly on the intestine to increase the muscle contractions which move stool through the bowel. Suppository Questions. Medically reviewed by Alana Biggers, M.

What is it? Time Types Safety Seeing a doctor Summary An enema is a treatment that people use to flush the contents of the bowel out of the body.

What is an enema, and how does it work? Share on Pinterest A barium enema helps doctors see the outline of the large intestine. How long does it take to work? Types of enema. How to use one. Are enemas safe? When to see a doctor.

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Medically reviewed by Debra Sullivan, Ph. Would I benefit from a coffee enema? Medically reviewed by Debra Rose Wilson, Ph. Which foods are good for constipation? Medically reviewed by Natalie Olsen, R. Sign up for the best tips to take care of your stomach. Portalatin M, Winstead N. Medical management of constipation.

Clin Colon Rectal Surg. Colonoscopic enema as rescue for inadequate bowel preparation before colonoscopy: a prospective, observational study. Colorectal Dis. Seow-choen F. The physiology of colonic hydrotherapy. Facts and Fallacies About Digestive Diseases. Perforation and mortality after cleansing enema for acute constipation are not rare but are preventable.

Int J Gen Med. Fatalities and severe metabolic disorders associated with the use of sodium phosphate enemas: a single center's experience.

Arch Intern Med. FDA Drug Safety Communication: FDA warns of possible harm from exceeding recommended dose of over-the counter sodium phosphate products to treat constipation. Your Privacy Rights. To change or withdraw your consent choices for VerywellHealth. At any time, you can update your settings through the "EU Privacy" link at the bottom of any page. These choices will be signaled globally to our partners and will not affect browsing data. We and our partners process data to: Actively scan device characteristics for identification.

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