What About An Enema? Constipation Cure You Should Use With Care

Before you use an enema, constipation can be treated with changes in diet, changes in exercise, stool softeners, laxatives, and/or bulking agents. Enemas can be very effective when used occasionally and administered the right way (more about that in a moment). The problem is that most people don�t administer enemas the right way. And enemas can cause more problems than they cure.

For instance, if you fill the enema bag with tap water, the chlorine in the tap water will kill friendly bacteria in your colon. On the other hand, you may give yourself an injection of parasites and other microorganisms that can withstand chlorination, Cryptosporidia, Campylobacter, and Giardia among them.

An improperly administered enema can even cause the colon to balloon outwards. This is because the ileocecal valve keeps the warm from reaching the small intestine, where impaction begins. Distension of the colon can cause permanent damage.

If all of this reads like it has been written to discourage everyday use of enemas, it is. But they can be useful when other methods don�t work. Now for the right way to use an enema, constipation treatment of last resort:

What you will need: � A comfortable spot that might allow for cleanup to occur. Most people prefer to evacuate into the toilet, but if this is not possible, any cleanable surface where you can place two or three disposable towels will do. � An enema bag (a disposable one would be adequate for your first attempt or you might want to buy a reusable one for a little more) with a clamp or hemostat. � Warm tap water (distilled water can disturb electrolyte balance and must not be used in the enema bag) � A toilet nearby � Someplace to hang the enema bag � Some bleach to clean the enema bag if you choose a reusable bag Have an evacuation plan. Know where you want to be when the enema takes effect. You can receive an enema on the toilet, but you are likely to evacuate your bowels as soon as the water is applied. Other positions are possible but are less efficient. Hang the enema bag 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 cm) higher than the plane of the anus. Hanging the bag lower will reduce pressure but increase the likelihood of complicated cleanup. Hanging the bag higher will increase pressure and flow. Do not allow the bag to drop below the level of the anus during the procedure to prevent flow of feces into the enema bag. It helps to lubricate the tip of the hose before it is inserted. If possible, try to retain the water inside you for several minutes. If your stomach feels like it is expanding, let it. You can rub your stomach in a circular pattern to relieve discomfort while the enema is inside you. Your everyday solution for regularity should not be an enema. Constipation is best managed with additional fluid, appropriate diet, and exercise, whenever possible. Use enemas no more than once or twice a month for constipation relief.