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Enema for Poop: Ultimate Guide to Types, Benefits, and Risks

What are enemas and how do they work. What types of enemas exist. Are enemas safe and effective for constipation relief. What are the potential side effects of using enemas. How to properly administer an enema at home. When should you consult a doctor about using enemas. What are alternatives to enemas for constipation relief.

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Understanding Enemas: Purpose and Function

Enemas are rectal injections of fluid designed to cleanse the colon and stimulate bowel movements. They have been used for centuries as a remedy for chronic constipation and to prepare patients for certain medical procedures. But how exactly do enemas work?

An enema introduces fluid into the rectum and lower colon, which helps to soften stool and stimulate peristalsis – the wave-like muscle contractions that move waste through the intestines. This promotes the evacuation of fecal matter, providing relief from constipation.

While primarily used for constipation relief, enemas may also be prescribed by healthcare providers to clear the bowel before diagnostic tests like colonoscopies or certain surgeries. This reduces the risk of infection and ensures a clear view of the colon.

Types of Enemas: Cleansing vs. Retention

There are two main categories of enemas: cleansing enemas and retention enemas. Understanding the differences between these types can help you choose the most appropriate option for your needs.

Cleansing Enemas

Cleansing enemas are designed to be held in the rectum for a short period, typically just a few minutes. Their primary purpose is to flush out the colon quickly. Some common types of cleansing enemas include:

  • Water or saline enemas
  • Epsom salt enemas
  • Sodium phosphate enemas
  • Lemon juice enemas
  • Apple cider vinegar enemas
  • Soap suds enemas

Among these, water or saline enemas are considered the gentlest and least irritating options. They work primarily by mechanically expanding the colon to promote defecation.

Retention Enemas

Retention enemas are meant to be held in the bowel for an extended period, usually at least 15 minutes. These enemas often have additional ingredients intended to provide specific benefits. Common retention enemas include:

  • Coffee enemas
  • Mineral oil enemas
  • Probiotic enemas
  • Herbal enemas

Retention enemas may be water- or oil-based. The extended holding time allows for greater absorption of the enema solution, which can help soften stool and make it easier to expel.

Efficacy of Enemas for Constipation Relief

Are enemas truly effective for relieving constipation? While individual experiences may vary, research suggests that enemas can be an effective short-term solution for constipation relief.

Enemas work by softening stool and stimulating bowel movements, which can provide quick relief from constipation symptoms. However, it’s important to note that enemas are not a long-term solution for chronic constipation and should not be used regularly without medical supervision.

Can enemas treat other health issues beyond constipation? Some proponents claim that enemas can alleviate conditions like depression, fatigue, headaches, and allergies by removing “toxic” waste from the colon. However, there is limited scientific evidence to support these claims. While constipation can indeed cause discomfort and affect mood, the direct link between waste buildup and these other conditions is not well-established.

Potential Risks and Side Effects of Enemas

While enemas can be effective for constipation relief, they are not without risks. Understanding potential side effects is crucial for safe use.

What are the most common side effects of enemas? Some individuals may experience:

  • Abdominal cramping or discomfort
  • Nausea
  • Dizziness
  • Electrolyte imbalances
  • Rectal irritation or damage

More serious complications, though rare, can include perforation of the rectum or colon, especially if the enema is administered improperly or too forcefully.

Can enemas disrupt gut health? Frequent use of enemas may disturb the balance of gut bacteria, which play a crucial role in digestive and overall health. Additionally, overuse of enemas can lead to electrolyte imbalances, particularly if solutions containing minerals or electrolytes are used.

Proper Administration of Enemas at Home

If you’re considering using an enema at home, it’s essential to follow proper procedures to minimize risks and maximize effectiveness.

How do you administer an enema safely? Here’s a step-by-step guide:

  1. Gather all necessary supplies, including the enema solution, an enema bag or bulb, and lubricant.
  2. Warm the enema solution to body temperature to prevent discomfort.
  3. Lubricate the tip of the enema nozzle.
  4. Lie on your left side with knees drawn up to your chest.
  5. Gently insert the nozzle into the rectum.
  6. Slowly release the enema solution into the rectum.
  7. Hold the solution for the recommended time (this varies depending on the type of enema).
  8. Release the enema into the toilet.

Always follow the instructions provided with your enema kit or as directed by your healthcare provider. If you experience significant pain or discomfort during the process, stop immediately and consult a medical professional.

When to Consult a Healthcare Provider

While enemas can be useful for occasional constipation relief, there are situations where professional medical advice is necessary.

When should you see a doctor about constipation or enema use? Consider consulting a healthcare provider if:

  • You experience chronic constipation lasting several weeks
  • You notice blood in your stool
  • You have unexplained weight loss
  • You experience severe abdominal pain
  • You’re considering regular use of enemas

A healthcare provider can help determine the underlying cause of your constipation and recommend appropriate treatment options, which may or may not include enemas.

Alternatives to Enemas for Constipation Relief

While enemas can be effective, they’re not the only option for managing constipation. There are several alternatives that may be worth considering.

What are some natural ways to relieve constipation without enemas? Consider trying:

  • Increasing fiber intake through diet or supplements
  • Staying well-hydrated
  • Regular exercise
  • Establishing a consistent bathroom routine
  • Using over-the-counter stool softeners or osmotic laxatives

These methods can often provide relief without the potential risks associated with enemas. However, if constipation persists despite these measures, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider to rule out any underlying health issues.

The Role of Diet in Preventing Constipation

While enemas can provide short-term relief, maintaining a healthy diet is crucial for long-term digestive health and constipation prevention.

What foods can help prevent constipation? A diet rich in fiber is key. Good sources of fiber include:

  • Whole grains
  • Fruits and vegetables
  • Legumes
  • Nuts and seeds

In addition to fiber, staying well-hydrated is essential for maintaining soft, easy-to-pass stools. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day, or more if you’re active or live in a hot climate.

Are there foods that can worsen constipation? Some foods that may contribute to constipation include:

  • Processed foods high in fat and sugar
  • Dairy products (for some individuals)
  • Red meat
  • Alcohol

By focusing on a balanced, fiber-rich diet and staying hydrated, many people can effectively manage constipation without resorting to enemas or other interventions.

The History and Cultural Significance of Enemas

Enemas have a long and fascinating history that spans cultures and centuries. Understanding this history can provide context for their current use and perception in modern medicine.

When did the use of enemas begin? The practice of using enemas dates back to ancient times. Ancient Egyptians are believed to have used enemas as early as 1500 BCE, considering them essential for maintaining good health.

How have enemas been used in different cultures? In various cultures throughout history, enemas have been used for purposes beyond constipation relief:

  • Ancient Greeks used enemas for general detoxification
  • Native American tribes used tobacco enemas as a stimulant
  • In 17th century France, enemas became a fashionable health practice among the nobility

How has the perception of enemas changed over time? While enemas were once considered a cure-all for various ailments, modern medicine takes a more cautious approach. Today, enemas are primarily used for specific medical purposes, such as treating severe constipation or preparing for certain medical procedures.

The Science Behind Enemas: How They Affect Your Body

Understanding the physiological effects of enemas can help explain both their benefits and potential risks.

How do enemas stimulate bowel movements? Enemas work through several mechanisms:

  1. Mechanical stimulation: The introduction of fluid into the rectum and colon stretches the bowel walls, triggering peristalsis.
  2. Osmotic effect: Some enema solutions draw water into the bowel, softening stool.
  3. Chemical stimulation: Certain enema ingredients may directly stimulate the nerve endings in the rectum, promoting bowel movements.

What happens to your body during an enema? When you administer an enema:

  • The rectum and lower colon fill with fluid
  • This stretching stimulates nerve endings, triggering the urge to defecate
  • The body may absorb some of the enema fluid, which can affect electrolyte balance
  • The colon contracts to expel the fluid along with fecal matter

Understanding these processes can help explain why enemas can be effective for constipation relief, but also why they carry certain risks if used improperly or too frequently.

Enemas in Medical Settings: Uses and Procedures

While many people use enemas at home for constipation relief, they also have important applications in medical settings.

When are enemas used in hospitals or clinics? Some common medical uses for enemas include:

  • Preparation for colonoscopies or other lower gastrointestinal procedures
  • Treatment of severe constipation or fecal impaction
  • Administration of certain medications
  • Management of certain types of poisoning

How do medical enemas differ from home-use enemas? Medical enemas are typically:

  • Administered by trained healthcare professionals
  • Used in conjunction with other medical treatments or diagnostic procedures
  • Often larger in volume than typical home-use enemas
  • May contain medications or contrast agents for specific medical purposes

In medical settings, the use of enemas is carefully monitored to ensure safety and effectiveness. The type of enema used will depend on the specific medical situation and the patient’s individual needs.

Debunking Myths About Enemas and Colon Cleansing

There are many misconceptions surrounding enemas and colon cleansing. It’s important to separate fact from fiction to make informed decisions about your health.

Are enemas necessary for detoxifying the body? Despite claims by some alternative health practitioners, there’s little scientific evidence to support the idea that enemas can “detoxify” the body. Your liver, kidneys, and other organs naturally remove toxins from your system.

Can enemas cure diseases? While enemas can provide relief from constipation, they are not a cure-all for other health conditions. Claims that enemas can treat conditions like cancer, arthritis, or allergies are not supported by scientific evidence.

Do we need to “cleanse” our colons regularly? The colon is designed to eliminate waste efficiently on its own. For most healthy individuals, regular cleansing with enemas or other methods is unnecessary and may even be harmful if done excessively.

By understanding these myths and focusing on evidence-based information, you can make more informed decisions about whether enemas are appropriate for your health needs.

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Enemas are used to relieve constipation and cleanse the colon. Water- or saline-based enemas tend to carry the least risk. However, enemas can have side effects, such as disturbing your gut bacteria and affecting your body’s electrolyte balance.

Enemas are rectal injections of fluid intended to cleanse or stimulate the emptying of your bowel.

They have been used for hundreds of years to treat chronic constipation and prepare people for certain medical tests and surgeries (1).

Enemas can be administered by a medical professional or self-administered at home.

This article reviews different types of enemas, as well as their potential benefits and health concerns.

Constipation is a condition in which the natural movement of your stool slows down, making them hard, dry, and difficult to excrete. For many people, this can be a chronic problem that requires an intervention like an enema — or a laxative inserted rectally.

Enemas may also be prescribed to flush out your colon before certain diagnostic tests or surgeries. Your bowel needs to be empty before these procedures to reduce infection risk and prevent stool from getting in the way.

According to some enema advocates, when waste builds up in your colon over time, it leads to ailments like depression, fatigue, headaches, allergies, and irritability, and using enemas can provide relief.

While it’s true that many people with chronic constipation experience depression and other psychological symptoms, evidence is lacking to suggest that waste buildup directly leads to the other aforementioned effects (2, 3).

There are two main types of enemas — cleansing and retention.

Cleansing enemas

Cleansing enemas are water-based and meant to be held in the rectum for a short time to flush your colon. Once injected, they’re retained for a few minutes until your body rids itself of the fluid, along with loose matter and impacted stool in your bowel.

Some of the most common cleansing enemas include (3, 4):

  • Water or saline. The least irritating of all options, water or saline — salt water that mimics your body’s sodium concentration — are used primarily for their ability to expand the colon and mechanically promote defecation.
  • Epsom salt. This is similar to a water or saline enema, but magnesium-rich Epsom salt is said to be more effective at relaxing bowel muscles and relieving constipation.
  • Sodium phosphate. This is a common over-the-counter enema that works by irritating your rectum, causing it to expand and release waste.
  • Lemon juice. Lemon juice mixed with warm, filtered water is said to balance the pH of your body while cleansing your colon.
  • Apple cider vinegar. Advocates say that mixing apple cider vinegar with warm, filtered water can quickly clear the bowel and may have other antiviral healing effects on your digestive system.
  • Soap suds. Adding castile soap, or another mild soap with minimal additives, to water mildly irritates the bowel, which encourages the rapid excretion of stool.

Retention enemas

Retention enemas are designed to be held in your bowel for an extended period — usually a minimum of 15 minutes — before being released. Retention enemas may be water- or oil-based, which softens the stool and makes it easier for your body to expel.

Some of the most common retention enemas include (5, 6, 7):

  • Coffee. Coffee enemas are a mixture of brewed, caffeinated coffee and water thought to promote bile removal from the colon. They were popularized by Max Gerson, a physician who used them to help treat people with cancer.
  • Mineral oil. This type of enema works primarily by lubricating waste inside of your colon, sealing it with water, and promoting its removal.
  • Probiotic. Mixing probiotics with water may cleanse your bowel while helping colonize your good gut bacteria. Lactobacillus reuteri enemas have been shown to reduce inflammation in children with ulcerative colitis.
  • Herbal. Some people use herbs like garlic, catnip tea, or red raspberry leaf mixed with water to make herbal enemas with purported nutritional, infection-fighting, and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Summary

Enemas are rectal injections of fluid that are intended to cleanse your bowel or treat chronic constipation. The two main types — cleansing and retention enemas — come in a variety of solutions and can be injected at home.

Enemas can treat constipation and clear out your bowel. However, many people choose to use enemas for other purported health benefits (8, 9).

Some advocates claim that enemas can support weight loss, remove toxins and heavy metals from your body, and improve your skin, immunity, blood pressure, and energy levels.

Still, evidence is limited to suggest that enemas are effective for these purposes or that they benefit everyone who uses them. Most evidence in support of their effectiveness is anecdotal, despite their widespread use in modern medicine (10).

Enemas appear to be most effective when used to relieve chronic constipation in a medical setting, though they come with many risks, especially when self-administered at home (11, 12).

Summary

Enemas can be effective in cleansing the bowel and treating chronic constipation, but most evidence in their favor is anecdotal rather than science based.

Though enemas can clean out your bowel, you should consider their risks and take certain precautions before using one.

May interrupt your body’s natural balances

Enemas may disturb your gut bacteria and throw off your body’s electrolyte balance.

Research shows that enemas used in preparation for medical procedures significantly disrupt gut bacteria, though the effect appears to be temporary. However, enemas that are split and administered in two doses seem to have fewer effects on the microbiome (13, 14).

Electrolyte disturbances have been observed with various types of enemas, such as large-volume soap suds enemas and those containing minerals.

For instance, there have been reports of Epsom salt enemas causing death from magnesium overdose. In another case, an older man died from severe electrolyte disruption caused by taking two sodium phosphate enemas (3, 15, 16).

Other reports note that the overuse of enemas to flush out the colon may lead to severe dehydration, which can be fatal (17).

Enema solutions can harm your bowel

Lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, and coffee enemas are highly acidic, and scientific evidence to suggest their effectiveness or safety is lacking.

What’s more, the evidence shows that their acidity and makeup can harm your bowel and lead to rectal burns, inflammation, infections, and even death (1).

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 (18).

Furthermore, in some people, herbal enemas have caused internal bleeding that required a blood transfusion and removal of the colon (1).

Dirty or improperly used tools can cause infection and damage

If you self-administer an enema at home, it’s critical to make sure that the tools you use are sterile, meaning they’re free of harmful germs. 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, 19).

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.

Summary

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.

If you’re mainly considering an enema to stimulate and clean out your digestive system, there may be other, less invasive options.

Some potential alternatives to enemas, which can promote waste excretion and bowel regularity, include (20, 21, 22, 23):

  • drinking caffeinated coffee, which is known to stimulate defecation
  • staying well hydrated with water
  • getting regular exercise like walking, running, biking, or aerobics
  • trying an over-the-counter oral laxative like magnesium
  • increasing your fiber intake by eating whole plant foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and seeds.

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.

Summary

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.

Other, less risky alternatives may be a better option in most cases.

Enema Constipation | Everyday Health

Some common steps in administering an enema include:

  • Drink one or two glasses of water prior to the enema, as it can cause you to become dehydrated.
  • Lie on your stomach with your knees pulled under you.
  • Lubricate the enema tube and gently insert it into your rectum.
  • If you’re using a disposable enema, gently squeeze the contents into your rectum. If you’re using an enema bag with a homemade solution, hold the bag up and allow gravity to deliver the contents.
  • Once the bag is empty, remove the tube from your rectum.
  • Wait in that position until you feel the need to move your bowels. You should feel a powerful urge within 2 to 10 minutes. Try to hold the enema in for at least 5 minutes to achieve maximum benefit.

Health Concerns Regarding Enemas

Because enemas can cause dehydration, overuse of enemas can create serious health problems. Use of enemas for constipation on a regular basis can lead to an electrolyte imbalance in the body called hyponatremia, in which the blood becomes diluted and its salt content becomes lower than normal. Hyponatremia can cause muscle spasms and swelling of the brain that leads to mental impairment. This is a particular concern when using enemas with plain tap water.

On the other extreme, overuse of phosphate enemas for constipation can lead to a condition called hyperphosphatemia, in which the blood levels of phosphate salts become elevated.

Be sure to consult with your doctor before using an enema, and exhaust all other possibilities first.

Learn more in the Everyday Health Digestive Health Center.

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what to choose for the treatment of chronic constipation

Laxatives and enemas: what to choose for the treatment of chronic constipation

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  • Laxatives and enemas: what to choose for the treatment of chronic constipation

Chronic constipation is most often observed in the elderly: more than 36% of patients over 60 years of age suffer from defecation disorders, while before the age of 60 the problem is 3 times less common. Also at risk are people with limited mobility, bedridden patients, patients after operations on the abdominal organs.

Constipation significantly impairs the quality of life, disrupts the digestive process, and can lead to dangerous coloproctological diseases. Therefore, patients with chronic constipation must be prescribed treatment: diet therapy, exercise therapy, drug therapy (laxatives), enema, if indicated.

Laxatives for constipation – types and features of use

Medication for constipation is challenging because most people self-medicate and take over-the-counter laxatives for a long time. Unsystematic therapy exacerbates existing disorders, therefore, by the time of examination by a doctor, a person usually has many days of constipation, and the defecation process is accompanied by strong straining, the need for manual assistance for emptying.

General principles for the use of laxatives:

● the choice of the drug is carried out taking into account the cause of constipation: irrational nutrition, physical inactivity, intestinal atony after surgery, chronic gastrointestinal diseases, etc.;

● with long-term constipation and the presence of concomitant diseases, a combination of laxatives with a different mechanism of action is recommended;

● The dosage and frequency of use of laxatives are periodically changed in order to achieve a good therapeutic result without harm to health and adverse reactions;

● with difficult and painful bowel movements, oral laxatives are combined with local remedies in the form of rectal suppositories;

● for neurological and psycho-emotional causes of constipation, drugs are prescribed that affect the peripheral and central nervous system.

In medical practice, different types of laxatives are used. They differ in mechanism and strength of action, adverse reactions, indications. Next, we will talk in detail about each group of drugs, mentioning their advantages, disadvantages and nuances of use.

Please note that the information is provided for informational purposes only! For the selection of laxatives, we recommend that you consult an ID-Clinic therapist, which is available online, at a clinic appointment, at home for patients with limited mobility.

Stool bulking agents

Medicines contain bran, cellulose, flax seeds and other components that increase the amount of feces and normalize its consistency. Increased stool volume stimulates mechanoreceptors, enhances intestinal motility and promotes the process of defecation.

The drugs act gently and physiologically, so they are prescribed for long-term use, including in elderly and debilitated patients. The exception is patients in the postoperative period and those with adhesive disease, in whom such laxatives can provoke an increase in pain.

The advantages of drugs from this group:

● have good drug compatibility, which is important for people who constantly take drugs to correct chronic diseases;

● safe medicines with a minimum number of adverse reactions and complications;

● do not “turn off” the motor function of the intestine and are not addictive;

● can be used for a long time without the risk of complications;

● bind cholesterol and increase its excretion with feces, thereby helping to correct dyslipidemia and atherosclerosis.

Osmotic laxatives

Another commonly used group of laxatives. They increase the osmotic pressure in the intestinal lumen and retain water, thereby softening the stool. Like the previous group of drugs, osmotic preparations increase the volume of feces, contribute to its promotion and painless removal during defecation. Medicines can be used long-term to normalize the functioning of digestion and regular stools in patients with chronic constipation.

Benefits of osmotic laxatives include:

● do not irritate the intestinal mucosa;

● are not addictive;

● are not absorbed into the blood, do not wash out salts and vitamins from the intestines;

● have an additional prebiotic effect – stimulate the growth of beneficial intestinal microflora;

● show an auxiliary therapeutic effect in cardiovascular diseases, renal and hepatic insufficiency, diabetes mellitus.

Drugs that cause chemical irritation of intestinal receptors

Drugs from this group have a dual effect. First, they increase intestinal motility, helping to move the stool and causing the urge to defecate. Secondly, drugs stimulate the secretion of fluid and electrolytes into the intestinal lumen, which allows you to increase the volume of feces and make them more liquid. Medicines have a quick laxative effect, so patients often purchase them for self-medication.

However, this category of drugs has a number of significant disadvantages:

● provoke secretory type of diarrhea, causing disturbances in water and electrolyte balance in the body;

● quickly addictive, require a constant increase in doses, which is fraught with dangerous side reactions;

● with prolonged uncontrolled use cause degenerative changes in the nervous structures of the intestine;

● can provoke a specific drug complication – laxative disease.

Given the potential risks and complications, stimulant laxatives are usually given in short courses of up to 2 weeks. They help to cope with long-term constipation, after which patients are transferred to milder and gentler drug options for continuous use.

Softeners

This category includes various types of oils that are taken orally, administered in the form of rectal suppositories. They soften the feces, coat the mucous membrane of the rectum and facilitate the process of defecation.

Such drugs do not have a pronounced laxative effect, so they are used to a limited extent. Most often, oil products are used in the postoperative period and in bedridden patients to reduce straining during bowel movements.

Enemas for constipation – when and why they are prescribed

For many people, enema becomes the main self-help remedy for constipation, but in fact, this procedure is not a treatment and does not help solve the problem of the gastrointestinal tract. Abuse of artificial bowel cleansing is fraught with a violation of the microflora, progressive atony of the colon and aggravation of constipation. Therefore, enemas are prescribed only as a one-time procedure to remove the accumulation of stool and improve the patient’s condition.

The main indication for enema is the lack of effect from drug treatment of constipation. However, do not prescribe an enema yourself. This is a medical procedure that should be carried out on the recommendation of a doctor no more than 1 time per week. For cleansing, ordinary water or water-oil solutions are used, which cover the walls of the intestine, facilitate the removal of dry, lumpy feces.

In addition to conventional enemas, microclysters are also used. They contain a combination of laxatives that are injected in small amounts into the rectum. On sale there are options for single use – a portioned tube with a special tip for rectal use. Microenemas show a strong and fast effect, but like regular enemas, they are not suitable for frequent use.

If the prescribed treatment regimen does not help, and there is a frequent need for enemas to empty the intestines, you should visit the doctor again. A change in pharmacotherapy, the use of stronger laxatives or drug combinations may be required.

With the progression of constipation, the absence of the effect of conservative tactics and complicated forms of colostasis, surgical intervention is indicated. In this case, the ID-Clinic doctor gives a referral for hospitalization so that the hospital surgeon selects the tactics of the operation and performs the necessary treatment.

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  • Clear fruit juices, such as from white cranberries, white grapes, or apples
  • Carbonated drinks such as 7-Up®, Sprite®, ginger ale, mineral water, Gatorade®
  • Black coffee (no creamer)
  • Tea
  • Water
  • Juice with pulp
  • nectars
  • Milk
  • Alcoholic drinks