Constipation; It is a common condition that can occur as a result of various reasons such as diet, some diseases and drug use. Although the use of some drugs in the treatment of constipation is beneficial, enema is one of the most frequently used treatment methods.
What is an enema?
The rectum is the last part of the large intestine where it connects to the anus. Enema is the process of placing liquid into the large intestine to accelerate the operation of the intestines by placing it in the rectum. The frequently asked “What does an enema mean?” This question can be answered in this way. In the treatment of constipation, laxatives, that is, drugs that accelerate bowel movements, are generally preferred in cases where other options such as diet change and doing sports do not help. In cases where these treatments do not show any benefit, enemas can be used.
What Does an Enema Do?
Constipation, a common complaint, occurs when the stool in the large intestine cannot be passed through the rectum. In patients with constipation, the intestines work slower than normal and three or fewer bowel movements occur in a seven-day period. Mild constipation is usually caused by individuals not regularly consuming fibrous foods or not drinking enough water. Not doing daily sports activities is another factor that causes constipation. Enema is used to clean the large intestine in patients with constipation problems. Enema is used not only in case of constipation, but also before x-ray or colonoscopy (examination of the large intestine with a camera) that will allow visualization of the large intestine. Thanks to the cleansing of the intestines, it helps to see the polyps that may be found in the large intestine more clearly.
How to Do an Enema?
Physicians may want the patient to switch to some special diet before enema. This diet usually includes foods that contain dense fiber and accelerate the work of the intestines. However, these recommendations may vary depending on why the patient needs an enema. Enema can be applied at home or in hospitals. The enema solution can come ready-made or mixed with some materials. It can also be obtained as a result of grinding. Therefore, care must be taken when preparing an aqueous enema solution. In order to reduce the pressure on the large intestine, it is beneficial to empty the bladder (urinary bag) by urinating. It can be applied alone as well as by the patient's relative. Since enema may create an urgent need for toilet, it is recommended that the application be done close to the toilet. During the application, the legs should be pulled towards the abdomen so that the enema can pass into the intestines more easily. For easy placement of the enema tube, lubricating gel can be applied to the end of the tube. Measurement should be made before the procedure and the tip of the enema tube should not be advanced more than ten centimeters into the rectum. After the enema tube is inserted into the rectum, the solution in the tube should be squeezed until it is empty. Breathing deeply during this process will relax the patient. After the procedure is finished, the tip of the tube is slowly removed from the rectum. When the tube is removed, patients feel the need to go to the toilet immediately. If the purpose of the enema is to clean the intestines, then some amount of solution must remain in the intestines. Generally, it is sufficient to keep the enema in the intestines for 5 minutes. If the enema is used to enlarge the large intestine, it should be administered as recommended by the doctor. In case the patients have not performed the procedure before or need help, enema can also be performed in hospitals. In some cases, enemas are required for children or infants. Before using enemas in children or infants, it is important to contact a pediatrician and perform an enema application in accordance with their recommendations.
Types of Enemas
There are several types of enemas that are commonly used. Excretory enemas are used to clean the stool in the large intestine. It is usually applied before colonoscopy or other medical examinations are necessary. Complaints such as constipation, fatigue, headache and back pain can be relieved with the help of an enema. Softening of stool and intestinal motility in evacuative enema solutions There are minerals that are necessary for accelerating the ketones. As a result of the application of the evacuative enema, the intestines are stimulated and the wastes are removed together with the solution. The therapeutic enema types are solutions containing the necessary drugs for the treatment of intestinal-related infectious diseases. These enemas are performed under the supervision of a doctor in a hospital setting. They are not sent to the large intestine as quickly as with the excretory enemas, but are administered more slowly so as not to stimulate the rectum. In this way, the need to go to the toilet is reduced and the drug stays in the intestines longer. They are generally used in case of infection caused by intestinal parasites and contribute to the treatment.
Benefits of Enema
Enemas, which are used for the treatment of constipation and cleaning the intestines, are also used because they have other benefits. In some studies, it has been stated that enemas, which are stated to provide the removal of harmful toxins and heavy metals from the body, also improve the skin, immunity, blood pressure and energy level. However, since the number of studies indicating these benefits is limited, they are generally used in the treatment of constipation and cleansing the intestines.
Why Do Enemas?
- Enema; It is used in the treatment of constipation due to reasons such as not drinking enough water, not consuming fibrous foods regularly, not doing enough exercise. It is used to clean the large intestines. In this way, it helps to see polyps, bleeding and other abnormalities that may be located in the walls of the large intestine more easily.
- It is applied before surgery if a surgical procedure is to be applied to the intestines. In this way, it is possible to prevent feces from creating a dirty environment and causing infection during the operation. i>
- They are used for the treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.
Enema Side Effects
Enema is medically used to clean the intestines and relieve constipation. Although it has important effects in the treatment of the disease, it also brings many risks, especially as a result of misuse at home.
- Because it can also affect the beneficial bacteria in the intestines, it can disrupt the electrolyte (salt and mineral in the body) balance in the body. Especially, salt enemas containing sodium phosphate cause changes in magnesium and sodium levels by disrupting the electrolyte balance in the body.
- Pain and gas complaints in the form of abdominal cramps may occur after enema. If it occurs, problems such as water depletion and electrolyte imbalance may occur in the body. This can result in serious effects on the kidneys and heart. In case of dry mouth, increased thirst, tiredness/weakness, pale skin color, the physician should be informed. In case of serious side effects such as enema, the nearest health institution should be consulted.
- Severe side effects such as irregular heart rhythm and seizures can be seen, although rare.
- Allergy to occur after enema is usually rare, however. It is necessary to seek medical help in case of complaints such as redness, itching, swelling (especially in the face, tongue and throat), severe dizziness, difficulty in breathing.
How Long Does the Effect of Enema Last? ?
If the enema is done at home, it should not be rushed in this process. Nothing should be eaten for at least 30 minutes before starting the procedure. Enemas are usually effective within an hour of administration. If there is a situation such as not being able to go to the toilet after an enema, medical help should be sought. Unless otherwise stated, the physician should be consulted before using an enema for the second time.
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