It’s also a common treatment forconstipation, which is a condition that makes it hard to pass stool.
Instructions
Your enema will be easier to do if you prepare what you need ahead of time.
When the alarm goes off, use the toilet.
Verywell / Emily Roberts
Use only a product your healthcare provider recommends and follow instructions exactly.
Put the child in the right position, either on their side or with their bottom up.
Keep the solution warm, and avoid inserting the tip of the tube or enema bulb too far.
Be sure to explain what happens and why it’s needed.
Uses
Enemas can soften hard stool, which allows you to pass it.
They may also deliver medications directly into the bowel.
An enema is a common part of bowel preparation that you may need before some procedures.
Different amounts of fluid in the enema determine how much of the intestine is cleared out.
A large-volume enema is likely to help expel the most stool.
A small-volume enema might only clear stool from the rectum.
Enema solutions may contain plain water or medication.
These types of enemas are not recommended.
Potential Problems
To use an enema, you should probably twist and reach behind yourself.
This may be difficult if you have:
Repeated use of an enema for constipation comes with certain risks.
This includes weakened intestinal muscles andhyponatremia(water intoxication).
Fluid Considerations
If you use too much, it can travel higher up into your colon.
Then it takes longer than expected to come out.
You may end up with an unpleasant surprise well after you’ve left the bathroom.
Using too much fluid can lead to abnormal distention (your belly sticking out).
That can lead tobowel perforation.
This condition may not be obvious until serious symptoms appear.
Don’t use water that’s much warmer or cooler than your body temperature.
Hotter water can be irritating.
Cold water may cause contractions that force the water out too fast for it to work.
Call your provider if it’s possible for you to’t give yourself a prescribed enema.
Get medical help if it causes pain or severe discomfort.
Don’t usehome preparations.
Avoid trendy enema solutions thatcontain coffeeor alcohol.
They aren’t safe and can cause problems ranging from alcohol poisoning to inflammation and colitis.
Contraindications
Something is contraindicated if it’s unsafe due to something in your medical history.
Can I Drink Water After an Enema?
In some cases, yes.
It will depend on the reason for the enema.
Afterward, it’s important to drink water to replace any fluid loss and keep your digestive system healthy.
Ask your healthcare provider for instructions in your specific situation.
If you are using an enema for constipation, speak to your healthcare provider first.
There may be other options that are more effective and your provider can make personalized recommendations.
Don’t use enemas to treatongoing constipation.
This is helpful for treating constipation or fecal impaction.
It can also deliver medication to the bowel.
You may need an enema before a colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, orbowel surgery.
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