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Aug 19, 2022 · An enema is the insertion of a liquid into the rectum or colon through the anus. Your doctor may recommend an enema for therapeutic or diagnostic purposes. Constipation is one of the most common reasons for an over-the-counter (OTC) at-home enema. Keep reading to learn about the types of enema, their purpose, how they are performed, benefits ...
- Katy Wallis
- Enemas should provide relief very quickly after and sometimes as they are taking place. However, this may depend on your situation and the type of...
- An enema should not be painful when administered properly. During the procedure, you may feel fullness, mild pressure, or brief, minimal cramping....
- A therapeutic enema should provide prompt relief of constipation and hard stools. Call your doctor if you do not pass any stool or if you pass only...
- After a barium enema, your doctor may instruct you to drink extra water for 24 hours to keep your stools soft. Call your doctor if you have constip...
- Instructions
- Uses
- Potential Problems
- Contraindications
- Summary
- A Word from Verywell
Your enema will be easier to do if you prepare what you need ahead of time. You'll also want to clear your schedule for several hours afterward, so choose the best time of day that works for you so that you're not in a hurry after the enema starts to work. To use an enema, you'll need: 1. An enema kit (available from grocery or drug stores) 2. Petr...
Enema solutions may contain plain water or medication. As a treatment, they can soften hard stool. That allows you to pass it. They may also deliver medications directly into the bowel. Enemas are used to treat: 1. Constipation 2. Fecal impaction 3. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) An enema is a common part of bowel preparation. You may need that b...
To use an enema, you need to twist and reach behind yourself. This may be difficult if you have: 1. Limited range of motion in the shoulders or arms 2. Lost feeling in your fingers or hands
Something is contraindicated if it's unsafe for you for because of some aspect of your medical history. You shouldn't use enemas if you have: 1. Tumors obstructing your rectum 2. Rectal prolapse 3. Acute coronary syndrome 4. A compromised immune system such as from advanced HIV or chemotherapy If you can't use an enema, your healthcare provider wil...
Enemas clean out your bowel. This is helpful for treating constipation or fecal impaction. It can also deliver medication to the bowel. You may need an enema before colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, or bowel surgery. Tell your healthcare provider if you have problems with an enema or can't use one as prescribed. Don't use one if you have tumors obstructi...
An enema can be uncomfortable, embarrassing, and fairly gross. Try to put that aside. Understand that it's necessary and discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider. Enemas shouldn't be used regularly. If you find yourself needing them for something like chronic constipation, talk to your provider about other treatments.
People also ask
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The best step by step tutorial on how to safely administer an enema yourself at home. I also discuss the health benefits and most frequently asked questions ...
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- Olivia Budgen
Jan 11, 2024 · 3. Prepare the enema tube. Measure and mark 4 in (10 cm) on the enema tube so you are assured the tube is not inserted more than 4 in (10 cm) into your rectum. [3] Lubricate the end of the tube with a lubricant product, like KY jelly, to make insertion more comfortable. Method 2.
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Dec 5, 2023 · Put towels on the bathroom floor, then lie down with your knees to your chest. Insert the nozzle 3 in (7.6 cm) into your rectum. Hang the enema bag up and let gravity push the fluid into your rectum. Take the nozzle out, then hold the enema in for 5 to 15 minutes. Release the enema fluid into the toilet.
- 4 min
- 3.7M
- Muhammad Khan, MD, MPH
- An enema actually shouldn't hurt! You might feel some uncomfortable pressure when you first insert the enema, but you shouldn't feel any pain.
- You're supposed to hold in the medicine for a few minutes first. If you're using a commercial enema, check the label to see how long you're suppose...
- Some people like to lie on their sides, while other people prefer to squat near the toilet.
Dec 21, 2023 · Find a good spot: Choose a comfy and private place for the enema. Lube it up: Make the tip of the enema (nozzle) slippery with lubricant. Insert gently: Slowly insert the enema nozzle into your bottom, following the instructions. Wait it out: Squeeze the enema liquid and keep it inside for the suggested time.
Jul 5, 2021 · Then & Now: 9 Things You Should Know About Enemas. 1. An enema involves inserting liquid into the colon (large intestine) by way of the anus. Uses for enemas have changed over the centuries and even the past few decades. Today enemas are more likely to be part of a medical procedure or test, though there are times when you may need one at home.
