Stretching the bowel: This increases the chance of perforation, which is a risk when the lining of the colon is torn. It can cause the colon’s contents to leak into the body. increasing your fiber intake by eating whole plant foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and seeds. An enema is a handheld device used to push liquid (often mineral oil) through the anus into the large intestine. It is used to treat constipation and in preparation for certain types of procedures, such as a colonoscopy.

Karaören GY, Bakan N, Yürük CT, Çetinkaya AO. Effects of Bowel Preparation and Fluid Restriction in Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy Patients. Turk J Anaesthesiol Reanim. 2015 Apr;43(2):100-5. doi: 10.5152/TJAR.2014.57704 National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Flexible Sigmoidoscopy. It's worth trying other lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, instead of relying too much on enemas to improve your digestive health. Enemas are generally safe products, but there are more health risks from using enemas than there are with other constipation treatment options. Summary It’s always recommended to have a doctor administer an enema or use alternative treatments to help loosen stool, treat long-term constipation, or cleanse harmful bacteria from your gut.

Niv G, et al. (2013). Perforation and mortality after cleansing enema for acute constipation are not rare but are preventable. Storage: Sterilise nozzle, hose and enema bag after every use and dry thoroughly before storing in a dry place. Castor oil has long been used to relieve constipation. Learn more about how it’s used, who can use it, and its side effects. READ MORE The compounds in citrus or coffee can upset your gut bacteria balance and result in complications like rectal burns, bacterial infections, and even death.

Talk to your doctor before you perform your own enema. While it's typically safe to have an enema, it's probably still a good idea to talk to your doctor about it first. They may advise you to try other methods of relieving your constipation first, like taking a fiber supplement or an over-the-counter laxative, if you haven't already. If they do recommend an enema, they can tell you how often you should perform the enema or what to do if it doesn't relieve your constipation symptoms. [1] X Research source Get your doctor's consent before having an enema. There are several reasons why your doctor might recommend an enema. They can help if you're experiencing severe constipation because they can stimulate your bowels to pass stool. Your doctor might also prescribe an enema if you're going to have bowel surgery. [5] X Research source

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Then the fluid is gently squirted into the rectum with a clean nozzle. This directs the solution into the bowels to clear hard or impacted poop. Clinical Nutrition Research: "Coffee Enema for Preparation for Small Bowel Video Capsule Endoscopy: A Pilot Study." Make sure there's a place nearby where you can place the enema bag while you wait, like a small stool or a hook you can hang it from. A professional usually does the enema procedure, but you can also self-administer enemas at home. Types of Enemas A choice of enema hoses - silicone or PVC - at reasonable prices depending upon your budget or preference to set up your own enema.

Small children and older adults should not be given phosphate enemas, because they can lead to a dangerous electrolyte imbalance. [5] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Family Physicians Organization devoted to improving the health of patients, families, and communities Go to sourceMix 4 cups (0.95 L) of warm water with 2 teaspoons (11 g) of table salt. Combine the mixture with a doctor-recommended amount of saline solution in an enema bag.