How do enemas work to relieve constipation. What are the potential risks of home enemas. What are safer alternatives for constipation relief at home. When should you seek medical help for severe constipation. How can you prevent constipation naturally.

Understanding Enemas: A Deep Dive into Colon Cleansing

An enema is a procedure used to introduce fluid into the rectum and lower colon to stimulate bowel movements. While it can be an effective method for relieving constipation, it’s crucial to understand both its benefits and potential risks before attempting it at home.

How does an enema work? The process involves injecting a liquid solution into the rectum using specialized equipment. This fluid helps to soften stool, stimulate peristalsis (the wave-like muscle contractions that move material through the intestines), and promote evacuation of the bowels.

Types of Enema Solutions

• Saline solution
• Soap suds
• Mineral oil
• Coffee (controversial and potentially dangerous)
• Herbal solutions (should be used with caution)

Can you make an enema at home? While it’s possible to prepare an enema solution using readily available ingredients, it’s essential to exercise extreme caution. Home-prepared enemas carry risks of infection, electrolyte imbalance, and potential injury if not done correctly.

The Pros and Cons of Using Enemas for Constipation Relief

Enemas can offer quick relief from constipation, but they’re not without drawbacks. Understanding the benefits and risks is crucial for making an informed decision about their use.

Potential Benefits of Enemas

• Rapid relief from constipation
• Cleansing of the lower colon
• Preparation for certain medical procedures

Possible Risks and Side Effects

1. Electrolyte imbalance
2. Dehydration
3. Bowel perforation (in rare cases)
4. Infection if equipment is not sterile
5. Dependence if used too frequently

Is an enema safe for everyone? Enemas are generally safe when administered correctly, but they’re not recommended for people with certain medical conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease, hemorrhoids, or heart problems. Always consult a healthcare provider before using an enema, especially if you have any underlying health issues.

Safe Alternatives to Enemas for Constipation Relief

Before resorting to an enema, consider trying these safer, gentler methods for relieving constipation:

• Increasing fiber intake through diet or supplements
• Staying well-hydrated
• Regular exercise
• Over-the-counter laxatives (used as directed)
• Stool softeners

How effective are these alternatives compared to enemas? While they may not provide the immediate relief of an enema, these methods are generally safer for long-term use and can help prevent future bouts of constipation.

The Role of Diet in Preventing and Treating Constipation

A balanced diet rich in fiber is one of the most effective ways to prevent and treat constipation naturally. Fiber adds bulk to stool, making it easier to pass, and helps maintain regular bowel movements.

High-Fiber Foods to Include in Your Diet

• Fruits (e.g., apples, pears, berries)
• Vegetables (e.g., broccoli, carrots, spinach)
• Whole grains (e.g., oatmeal, brown rice, quinoa)
• Legumes (e.g., lentils, beans, chickpeas)
• Nuts and seeds

How much fiber do you need daily? The recommended daily intake of fiber is 25-30 grams for adults. However, it’s important to increase fiber intake gradually to avoid digestive discomfort.

Hydration: A Key Factor in Preventing Constipation

Proper hydration is essential for maintaining regular bowel movements. Water helps soften stool and promotes peristalsis, making it easier for waste to move through the intestines.

Tips for Staying Hydrated

• Drink water throughout the day
• Consume water-rich foods (e.g., cucumbers, watermelon)
• Limit caffeine and alcohol intake
• Consider herbal teas or infused water for variety

How much water should you drink daily? While individual needs vary, a general guideline is to aim for 8 glasses (64 ounces) of water per day. However, factors like climate, physical activity, and overall health can influence your hydration needs.

The Importance of Physical Activity in Bowel Health

Regular exercise plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy bowel function. Physical activity stimulates the muscles in your intestines, promoting more frequent bowel movements and reducing the risk of constipation.

Exercises That Can Help Relieve Constipation

• Brisk walking
• Jogging or running
• Swimming
• Yoga (especially poses that focus on the abdominal area)
• Cycling

How much exercise is needed to promote bowel health? Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity most days of the week. This can be broken up into shorter sessions throughout the day if necessary.

When to Seek Medical Help for Constipation

While occasional constipation is common, persistent or severe symptoms may indicate a more serious underlying condition. It’s important to recognize when professional medical help is necessary.

Warning Signs That Require Medical Attention

• Constipation lasting more than three weeks
• Severe abdominal pain
• Blood in the stool
• Unexplained weight loss
• Persistent changes in bowel habits

What tests might a doctor perform to diagnose the cause of chronic constipation? A healthcare provider may recommend various diagnostic tests, including:

• Blood tests to check for hormonal imbalances or other underlying conditions
• Colonoscopy to examine the colon for abnormalities
• X-rays or CT scans to assess the abdominal area
• Anorectal manometry to evaluate muscle function in the rectum and anus

Natural Remedies and Lifestyle Changes for Long-Term Constipation Management

In addition to dietary changes and exercise, several natural remedies and lifestyle adjustments can help manage constipation over the long term.

Effective Natural Remedies

• Probiotics to promote gut health
• Magnesium supplements (under medical supervision)
• Herbal teas like senna or peppermint
• Abdominal massage to stimulate bowel movements

Lifestyle Changes to Consider

1. Establishing a regular bathroom routine
2. Using a squatting position or toilet stool for easier bowel movements
3. Managing stress through relaxation techniques
4. Avoiding holding in bowel movements

How long does it take for lifestyle changes to improve constipation? While some people may experience relief within a few days, it can take several weeks for significant improvements in bowel regularity. Consistency is key when implementing lifestyle changes for constipation management.

In conclusion, while enemas can provide quick relief from constipation, they should not be the first line of treatment due to potential risks. A combination of dietary changes, proper hydration, regular exercise, and natural remedies often proves more effective and safer for long-term constipation management. Always consult with a healthcare provider before trying new treatments, especially if you experience persistent or severe symptoms.

Remedies to Relieve Constipation at Home

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Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

• Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
• Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
• Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

Read more about our vetting process.

Was this helpful?

Making your own enema to relieve constipation requires certain ingredients and clean, sanitized tools. For some people, enemas may cause side effects, including nausea and dehydration.

An enema is a method of clearing out your colon using an injection of fluid — basically, loosening up impacted bowels to help make yourself poop.

Typically, an enema is given to help treat constipation. First, a small bottle or container is filled with a safe fluid, such as soap suds or a saline solution.

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.

Enemas are typically the last course of action in treatment for constipation because of possible side effects. They can be safe to perform at home as long as you use safe types of fluids and sterilized tools, such as a home enema kit.

But most home enema methods are not recommended to be performed without the guidance of a medical professional.

It’s not difficult to make your own enema at home. All you need is a specific enema recipe from your healthcare provider, a safe fluid, and the right tools.

Warning

Do not attempt to administer your own enema if you’re not sure whether an enema solution is safe or don’t have any clean tools for the enema.

Here’s what to do first before you administer the enema:

1. Pour about eight cups of hot, distilled water into a clean cup, bowl, or jar. The water temperature should be around body temp; so 98–100°F or 37–38°C.
2. Put a small amount of Castile soap, iodized salt, or sodium butyrate into the water. Too much soap or salt can irritate your bowels. Discuss with your doctor how much is safe for you to use.
3. Get a clean, sterilized enema bag and tubing to safely give the enema to yourself.

If you’re planning to use mineral oil, you just need about 120 ml. of pure, natural mineral oil.

Home enema kits can be purchased at many stores that sell home health products. These kits contain everything you need to administer your own enema, including the bag, tubing, and cleansing solution. Rather than make an entire enema kit at home, these can be used right out of the box.

You can purchase a kit at any large retailer that sells home healthcare products, or check out these kits available online.

If you use the right enema solution and clean, sterilized tools, an enema is considered safe to make at home.

But enemas and colon cleanses in general can result in symptoms like nausea, dehydration, and throwing off your natural electrolyte balance. Don’t attempt an enema unless you’ve talked to a doctor first.

You need to take certain precautions to prevent possible side effects or complications. Here’s what you need to know before you make an enema at home.

“Natural” enemas like lemon juice or coffee can do more harm than good

There’s not much science to back up the usefulness of these substances for enemas.

The compounds in citrus or coffee can upset your gut bacteria balance and result in complications like rectal burns, bacterial infections, and even death.

Don’t attempt these types of enemas unless you’ve consulted with a doctor first.

Certain chemicals can cause harmful reactions in your colon

A 2017 case report found that two children developed colon inflammation (colitis) and experienced bloody diarrhea and vomiting after receiving a homemade hydrogen peroxide enema. It can take up to eight months to fully recover from this kind of reaction.

Improper or dirty tool use can lead to dangerous complications

Tools that haven’t been sterilized can be covered in bacteria and cause complications like bowel infections. Not using tools properly can damage your anus, rectum, or lower colon.

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.

Here are a few alternative treatments a doctor might use instead of a traditional enema:

• Laxatives like bisacodyl can stimulate a bowel movement.
• Probiotic enemas can help modify your gut bacteria and prevent or treat digestive issues or disorders.
• Foley balloon enemas open up the rectum and lower colon to help bowel movements move through the intestine.

Here are step-by-step instructions to safely administering an enema to yourself:

1. Drink a glass of water or two so that you don’t become dehydrated.
2. If possible, have a clean, empty bathtub in which you can use the enema. If a tub isn’t available, lay a clean towel on the floor.
3. Fill an enema bag with the soap or salt solution or with pure mineral oil.
4. Clamp the bag shut so that there’s no leakage.
5. Point the hose part down and slightly release the clamp so that excess air is released. This is important because air injected into the colon can cause gas, bloating, and nausea.
6. Hang or hold the bag approximately 12-18 inches above the rectum so it can drain.
7. Use a safe lubricant to make the tube easier and more comfortable to insert.
8. Lie down and raise your knees to the level of your chest.
9. Gently and slowly insert the tube into your rectum, relaxing your muscles and allowing your anus to push out so that it enters more easily. Only insert the tube up to four inches into your rectum.
10. Give the fluid time to drain into your rectum. Take slow, deep breaths and relax until the bag empties.
11. Gently take the tube out of your rectum.
12. Stand up slowly and go to the toilet right away if you feel the need to have a bowel movement.

Talk to a doctor about safe gut cleanses or treatments for constipation before you attempt to try any yourself.

Using unsafe substances or dirty tools can put you at risk for introducing harmful bacteria or causing dangerous reactions in your colon. And improperly giving an enema to yourself or others can injure your anus, rectum, or colon.

Take the proper precautions before doing an enema yourself. Make sure the substance is safe and the tools are fully sterilized, then follow each step to self-administer the enema very carefully.

Remedies to Relieve Constipation at Home

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Here’s our process.

Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

• Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
• Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
• Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

Read more about our vetting process.

Was this helpful?

Making your own enema to relieve constipation requires certain ingredients and clean, sanitized tools. For some people, enemas may cause side effects, including nausea and dehydration.

An enema is a method of clearing out your colon using an injection of fluid — basically, loosening up impacted bowels to help make yourself poop.

Typically, an enema is given to help treat constipation. First, a small bottle or container is filled with a safe fluid, such as soap suds or a saline solution.

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.

Enemas are typically the last course of action in treatment for constipation because of possible side effects. They can be safe to perform at home as long as you use safe types of fluids and sterilized tools, such as a home enema kit.

But most home enema methods are not recommended to be performed without the guidance of a medical professional.

It’s not difficult to make your own enema at home. All you need is a specific enema recipe from your healthcare provider, a safe fluid, and the right tools.

Warning

Do not attempt to administer your own enema if you’re not sure whether an enema solution is safe or don’t have any clean tools for the enema.

Here’s what to do first before you administer the enema:

1. Pour about eight cups of hot, distilled water into a clean cup, bowl, or jar. The water temperature should be around body temp; so 98–100°F or 37–38°C.
2. Put a small amount of Castile soap, iodized salt, or sodium butyrate into the water. Too much soap or salt can irritate your bowels. Discuss with your doctor how much is safe for you to use.
3. Get a clean, sterilized enema bag and tubing to safely give the enema to yourself.

If you’re planning to use mineral oil, you just need about 120 ml. of pure, natural mineral oil.

Home enema kits can be purchased at many stores that sell home health products. These kits contain everything you need to administer your own enema, including the bag, tubing, and cleansing solution. Rather than make an entire enema kit at home, these can be used right out of the box.

You can purchase a kit at any large retailer that sells home healthcare products, or check out these kits available online.

If you use the right enema solution and clean, sterilized tools, an enema is considered safe to make at home.

But enemas and colon cleanses in general can result in symptoms like nausea, dehydration, and throwing off your natural electrolyte balance. Don’t attempt an enema unless you’ve talked to a doctor first.

You need to take certain precautions to prevent possible side effects or complications. Here’s what you need to know before you make an enema at home.

“Natural” enemas like lemon juice or coffee can do more harm than good

There’s not much science to back up the usefulness of these substances for enemas.

The compounds in citrus or coffee can upset your gut bacteria balance and result in complications like rectal burns, bacterial infections, and even death.

Don’t attempt these types of enemas unless you’ve consulted with a doctor first.

Certain chemicals can cause harmful reactions in your colon

A 2017 case report found that two children developed colon inflammation (colitis) and experienced bloody diarrhea and vomiting after receiving a homemade hydrogen peroxide enema. It can take up to eight months to fully recover from this kind of reaction.

Improper or dirty tool use can lead to dangerous complications

Tools that haven’t been sterilized can be covered in bacteria and cause complications like bowel infections. Not using tools properly can damage your anus, rectum, or lower colon.

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.

Here are a few alternative treatments a doctor might use instead of a traditional enema:

• Laxatives like bisacodyl can stimulate a bowel movement.
• Probiotic enemas can help modify your gut bacteria and prevent or treat digestive issues or disorders.
• Foley balloon enemas open up the rectum and lower colon to help bowel movements move through the intestine.

Here are step-by-step instructions to safely administering an enema to yourself:

1. Drink a glass of water or two so that you don’t become dehydrated.
2. If possible, have a clean, empty bathtub in which you can use the enema. If a tub isn’t available, lay a clean towel on the floor.
3. Fill an enema bag with the soap or salt solution or with pure mineral oil.
4. Clamp the bag shut so that there’s no leakage.
5. Point the hose part down and slightly release the clamp so that excess air is released. This is important because air injected into the colon can cause gas, bloating, and nausea.
6. Hang or hold the bag approximately 12-18 inches above the rectum so it can drain.
7. Use a safe lubricant to make the tube easier and more comfortable to insert.
8. Lie down and raise your knees to the level of your chest.
9. Gently and slowly insert the tube into your rectum, relaxing your muscles and allowing your anus to push out so that it enters more easily. Only insert the tube up to four inches into your rectum.
10. Give the fluid time to drain into your rectum. Take slow, deep breaths and relax until the bag empties.
11. Gently take the tube out of your rectum.
12. Stand up slowly and go to the toilet right away if you feel the need to have a bowel movement.

Talk to a doctor about safe gut cleanses or treatments for constipation before you attempt to try any yourself.

Using unsafe substances or dirty tools can put you at risk for introducing harmful bacteria or causing dangerous reactions in your colon. And improperly giving an enema to yourself or others can injure your anus, rectum, or colon.

Take the proper precautions before doing an enema yourself. Make sure the substance is safe and the tools are fully sterilized, then follow each step to self-administer the enema very carefully.

Enema for constipation – how to do, contraindications, types

Enema with constipation of the intestine
Enema with constipation – how to do, contraindications, types | Phytomucil Norm
Enema for adult constipation is an effective treatment that can be done at home. The article is about how to properly put an enema for constipation of the intestine and their types (for example, cleansing). Phytomucil Norm
Phytomucil Norm

Constipation is often accompanied by painful sensations and is fraught with intoxication. It is necessary to fight constipation, so doctors often offer an integrated approach to treatment: dieting, increasing physical activity, taking laxatives or other medications. With prolonged constipation, it is important to empty the intestines as soon as possible. An enema will help to do this.

An enema is a medical procedure that involves injecting water or liquid solutions into the rectum through the anus. It can be performed both by the patient himself, and by a medical worker or relative – no special knowledge is required during the procedure. However, it should be understood that such manipulation has certain indications and contraindications, the technique of execution and the features of the conduct.

Enema for constipation

Enema is one of the most affordable methods used both in the hospital and at home. It allows you to get a quick effect and empty the intestines within 5-15 minutes after the introduction of the solution. Understanding how to make an enema for constipation allows you to instantly alleviate the symptoms of stool retention: cleanse the large intestine, stimulate intestinal motility, remove gases.

This approach has disadvantages, especially if we are not talking about once occurring, but about chronic constipation. An enema is not a treatment for constipation and the digestive system disorders that cause it. Many people who have tried all the ways to get rid of constipation note the following disadvantages of an enema:

• discomfort – when washing the intestines, discomfort is inevitable;

• the impossibility of using an enema repeatedly – it is strongly not recommended to use an enema regularly, as this can lead to complications;

• the presence of contraindications in the form of hemorrhoids, anal fissure and other anorectal diseases – frequent companions of constipation;

• the risk of developing addiction – enema can cause the development of lazy bowel syndrome and provoke dependence on manipulations.

According to the gastroenterologist, KMN Shulpekova O. Yu., “in some cases, the formation of dependence on enemas is a big problem” (Shulpekova Yu. O., 2006, p. 90). This happens due to not agreed with the doctor or too frequent use.

The constant use of an enema does not solve the underlying problem. The person fights against the symptom, but does not direct their attention to the source of the problem – the disease of the gastrointestinal tract, the specifics of the diet or the level of physical activity. Therefore, you should not be zealous with enemas, it can only help in special cases when you need to urgently empty your intestines.

Readings

A pear enema is indicated for acute constipation – in cases where stool retention is rare and not chronic. In addition, the procedure is carried out with caution if the patient has a so-called fecal blockage.

A fecal blockage is a condition in which an accumulation of feces forms in a certain area of ​​​​the rectum. The lump is gradually compacted, while gaps remain between it and the walls of the intestine, through which liquid feces pass and are brought out. The person thinks they are developing diarrhea and may start taking antidiarrheal medication, which exacerbates the problem.

With partial obstruction of the rectum, symptoms of intoxication quickly increase. Treatment of fecal obstruction is carried out without laxatives. However, the enema is also used with caution: the procedure will help in cases where the enema tip freely penetrates above the stone and there is no risk of injuring the walls of the rectum.

In addition to constipation, there are other indications for bowel cleansing with enemas:

• intoxication, poisoning;

• planned operations;

• forthcoming birth;

• upcoming proctological examination;

• preparation for X-ray examination of the digestive, urinary system, pelvic organs;

• preparation for endoscopic interventions;

• preparation for the formulation of a medicinal enema.

Sometimes an enema is prescribed in the postoperative period, when your own stool is not observed after a certain time after surgery. Usually on the second or third day.

But for whatever indication an enema is planned, it is important to remember that this procedure must be carried out only with a doctor’s prescription. After all, there are a number of serious contraindications that you may not recognize in yourself.

Enema contraindications

Enemas for constipation are categorically contraindicated in cases of suspected complete intestinal obstruction. Doctor Subbotin A. M. emphasizes that “due to its low efficiency, the use of enemas is currently used mainly only in patients with signs of partial intestinal obstruction” (Subbotin A. M., 2010, p. 1754).

But it is important to distinguish between partial and complete obstruction: in the first case, loose stools pass. Partial blockage ends with a resolution in the form of liquid feces with a putrid odor.

Complete intestinal obstruction is characterized by acute pain, pallor of the skin, sweating, tachycardia, often accompanied by nausea and vomiting. A characteristic feature is asymmetric bloating. In some cases, long-term constipation can only be distinguished from intestinal obstruction using ultrasound or x-rays. Therefore, if you suspect such a condition, it is better to consult a doctor.

There are other contraindications to enema:

• bleeding from any part of the gastrointestinal tract, bleeding from the rectum;

• inflammation of the large intestine;

• rehabilitation period after interventions in the rectal area, perianal area, for example, after removal of hemorrhoids;

• hemorrhoids, anal fissure, proctitis, proctosigmoiditis;

• intestinal tumors.

Enema stimulates intestinal peristalsis and uterine tone, so if possible it is better to refuse the procedure during menstruation, so as not to increase bleeding. During pregnancy, an enema is done only under the supervision of a doctor and in case of urgent need.

How to make an enema

How to make an enema for an adult with constipation? If you have been prescribed an enema by a doctor, it is important to know how to do it correctly. First of all, you should prepare. You will need an Esmarch mug or a rubber pear with a tip, an oilcloth or an absorbent sterile diaper, liquid paraffin or baby cream, an antiseptic (for example, a solution based on chlorhexidine).

It is better to carry out the procedure in the bathroom, if it is suitable for this. It is important that the surface on which the person lies is flat and firm. It is necessary to cover the surface with oilcloth and prepare a solution for enema. About which solution is best suited in a particular case, we will describe later in the article.

The tip of a syringe or Esmarch’s mug should be wiped with an antiseptic, applied to the tip with petroleum jelly or baby cream, in extreme cases – vegetable oil. A person should take a comfortable position – lie on either side or stand in a knee-elbow position, relax.

The enema is injected into the anus to a depth of 5-10 centimeters. The urge to go to the toilet can begin immediately after the start of the introduction of the solution, and it is important to restrain them for a certain time. The temperature of the solution can be from 10-21 to 39 ° C, depending on the indications.

Please note that the steps involved in administering an enema may vary depending on the type of enema.

The steps for self-administering an enema are as follows:

• collect Esmarch’s mug according to the instructions;

• fill it with a solution;

• bleed some fluid to bleed air;

• treat the tip with vaseline oil or baby cream;

• lie on your left side, pull your knees to your chest;

• push the buttocks apart, insert the tip into the anus to a depth of no more than 10 cm;

• pour in the solution;

• remove the tip, turn on your back and wait 15 minutes.

After the procedure, there will be a strong urge to defecate, it is important to restrain them only in the first few minutes, and then ensure the opportunity to spend as much time in the toilet as needed. Defecation can occur several times, so there is no need to rush.

Types of enemas for constipation

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The correct enema for constipation should be carried out taking into account the general state of health, the situation, the causes of stool retention. The characteristics of the solution used may vary depending on the type of enema.

The following solutions are used for cleansing and therapeutic measures:

• Oily: used for regular, prolonged constipation, often at bedtime. Unlike many other solutions, in this case, the laxative effect occurs after a few hours.
• Soapy: This solution is prepared with water and baby soap with glycerin. Used for a simple cleansing enema.
• Hypertonic: provides for the dissolution of salt in water, promotes the removal of excess fluid.
• Sour: Involves the use of acids (eg lemon juice or vinegar), used as a cleanser.
• Ognev’s enema solution: contains hydrogen peroxide, glycerin, soap shavings in the ratio 1:1:1. This solution is used for severe, prolonged constipation.
• Starch: this solution is used for hot enemas with temperatures up to 40-42 degrees. Also used for colitis. The composition of this solution includes starch and medicinal substances.
• Drip: The solution is a combination of drugs prescribed by a doctor. Can be used for dehydration, usually up to 4 treatments per day.
• Nutrient: May contain glucose, amino acids, etc. Also used for dehydration.

By volume, enemas are classified as follows:

Oil

It is recommended for spastic constipation, dehydration of feces. For example, in cases where constipation was the result of a poor drinking regimen. The solution is olive, castor, vaseline or other oil in its pure form.

The oil is heated in hot water to 38 ° C, drawn into a Janet syringe or syringe, injected into the anus. The urge to empty may not come immediately, but only after a few hours, so it is often more appropriate to use laxatives with a delayed, predictable effect.

Hypertonic enema

Hypertonic enema involves the use of water with salt or potassium permanganate dissolved in it. Such an enema is used, as a rule, to remove excess fluid during edema. Usually enough 0.2-0.5 liters of clean cold water. Warm water can be absorbed into the intestines, then the desired effect will not be. Salt solution increases osmotic pressure, stimulates the liquefaction of feces, the effect occurs after 20-30 minutes.

Cleansing enema

Cleansing enema for constipation involves thermal irritation with water of a certain temperature. Pure warm water is used, which mechanically stimulates the intestinal walls, has a temperature effect, and changes the consistency of feces. The effect comes immediately after the procedure.

Cleansing enema thins stools, stimulates bowel movements and can be used as part of the treatment of chronic constipation and to promote detoxification and elimination of stool in preparation for childbirth or surgery. Sometimes a cleansing enema is placed before the medicinal one. So medications based on medicinal enema are better absorbed.

In addition to pure water, it is possible to use water with the addition of 2 tbsp. l. glycerin or vegetable oil. As a preparation, you need to lay an oilcloth on the couch, lower one edge into a container on the floor.

Esmarch’s mug is filled with a solution with a temperature of 25−35 degrees, open the valve to remove air. Next, you need to close the tap and hang the mug above the couch. The person lies on his side, bending his knees.

Cleansing enema algorithm:

• Treat the tip with Vaseline.
• Insert 10 cm tube.
• Open tap, inject liquid.
• Detect 10 minutes.

If the pressure of the solution is not enough, pull the tip out a little and increase the water pressure, and if soreness is felt, reduce the pressure.

Siphon enema

Siphon enema involves cleansing the intestines with the help of a repeated washing procedure according to the principle of two communicating vessels – intestines and funnel. It differs from the cleaning one not only in the multiplicity of conduction, but also in technology. Before the procedure, you need to put an oilcloth, the edge of which is lowered into the container.

The person is laid on his side, after which the vaseline-treated tip of the rubber tube is inserted into the rectum by 10 cm. Then the funnel at the other end of the tube is filled with liquid, it is held at the level of the buttocks, then it is raised 0.5 m above the level of the body. When the waning water reaches the boundary of the constriction of the funnel, the funnel is lowered below the level of the body.

Intestinal contents will begin to flow out of it. This raising with the addition of liquid and lowering the funnel is repeated several times until the water coming out of it becomes clear. It should be remembered that only a specialist should carry out a siphon enema.

Medicinal

Typically, such enemas are indicated for inflammatory diseases of the rectum or sigmoid colon. In some cases, medicines are used as a solution, including decoctions of medicinal herbs. Sometimes general medicines are administered. systemic action. Only a specialist can prescribe a drug. It is important to do such enemas strictly in accordance with medical recommendations.

It should be understood that enema is not a treatment for constipation. In addition, in the case of alimentary constipation, it does not have any effect on the causes. Chronic constipation occurs in 15–25% of the adult population of developed countries, and in most cases it is associated with the diet and low physical activity of a modern person.

That is why the first recommendation of a gastroenterologist for constipation in a patient is almost always a menu correction – replenishing the diet with foods rich in dietary fiber. Sometimes additional fiber supplementation is required.

For this reason, the most effective laxatives are bulk ones, in particular preparations based on psyllium hulls. One of these laxatives is the British drug Fitomucil Norm, which contains soluble fibers in the form of psyllium seed husks and plum fruit pulp, as well as insoluble fibers.

Due to the latter, the agent stimulates peristalsis, and soluble fiber increases the water content in the feces, contributes to their softening and comfortable excretion. Plum pectin additionally promotes the growth of beneficial microflora. “Fitomucil Norm” acts without pain, swelling and sudden urges, is not addictive, unlike drugs with hay in the composition.

It is important to consult your doctor about enemas for constipation. There may be certain limitations, and only a specialist will tell you how to deal with the problem.
The article is for informational purposes only. The authors are not responsible for the quality of services provided by third parties and for possible complications.

References

• Parfenov AI Strategy and tactics of treatment of chronic constipation // Medical Council. – 2011. – No. 9−10. — S. 12−17.

• Subbotin AM Ideal preparation for colonoscopy — reality or goal on the horizon? Stages of improving its quality // Regular issues of “RMZH”. – 2010. – No. 28. – S. 1754.

• Shulpekova Yu. O. Constipation and methods of its treatment // Appendix BC “Diseases of the Digestive Organs”. – 2006. – No. 2. — S. 90.

Parfenov A.I. Strategy and tactics for the treatment of chronic constipation // Medical Council. – 2011. – No. 9−10. — S. 12−17.

Subbotin A.M. Ideal preparation for colonoscopy – reality or a goal on the horizon? Stages of improving its quality // Regular issues of “RMZH”. – 2010. – No. 28. – S. 1754.

Shulpekova Yu. O. Constipation and methods of its treatment // Appendix of breast cancer “Diseases of the Digestive Organs”. – 2006. – No. 2. – S. 90.

How to properly give an enema to a child with constipation

How to give an enema to a child at home with stool retention, Olga Glushko, pediatrician, pediatric gastroenterologist of the Semeynaya clinic network, told Gazeta. Ru.

Why an enema is needed

The specialist reminded that an enema is a device that cleans and rinses the colon or injects medicinal substances into it.

Enemas for children who suffer from constipation are done both in a hospital and at home, but in the latter case, Glushko recommended that a baby or an older child be given a medicinal enema only as prescribed by a doctor.

She advised not to consider enema as a popular way to improve bowel function and to do it only in extreme cases. In all other cases, it is more correct to establish nutrition, provide the child with sufficient drinking regimen and physical activity, and for older children, include in the diet products that have a mild laxative effect on the intestines of children who suffer from constipation.

What kind of water to give an enema to a child

For a cleansing enema prescribed by a doctor, the pediatrician recommended using water at a temperature of 36-38 degrees.

A lower temperature will cause discomfort to the child, and a higher temperature is dangerous to health. Such an enema has a cleansing effect in case of constipation in a baby.

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How to make your own cleansing enema

“Enemas can be in the form of a rubber syringe bulb or a container with a tube (Esmarch’s mug). Such large volume enemas are not used in the treatment of children who suffer from constipation.

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Regardless of the type of enema, several factors must be considered in the technique used. First, the position of the body: it is important that the patient lies on his left side with his knees pulled up to his stomach. This is due to the anatomical location of the rectum: in this position it will be more convenient to insert the tip into the rectum and give an enema to a baby who suffers from constipation. In infants, the position is slightly different: on the back with legs raised to the stomach, ”the doctor explained.

“To make it easier to insert the handpiece into the rectum of a constipated child, it can be lubricated with Vaseline oil. The volume of liquid for a single injection is calculated individually and depends on the purpose of the enema, the type of liquid injected (oily, hypertonic and others are administered in small volumes, unlike water), the age and weight of the patient also matter. Usually the volume of water for an adult does not exceed a liter, for a child it is much less,” Glushko said.

Which solution to use for an enema

According to Glushko, at present, a medicinal solution for enemas for children suffering from constipation, including small ones, is not prepared at home, but microclysters are more often used, which is associated with ease of use for children of any age.

Microclysters are considered safer than conventional ones.

“These enemas are a tube with a plastic tip with a medicinal substance. They are intended for mild stool stimulation in case of constipation, before medical procedures on the rectum or examination by a proctologist.