Using Water and Non-Water Enemas Safely
Enemasare used to relieveconstipationwhen laxatives or dietary measures aren’t working.
A cleansing enema also is used to clear out the colon before a colonoscopy or other test.
Intraditional Chinese medicine, retention enemas may be used as part of treatment.
Illustration by Nusha Ashjaee for Verywell Health
It will also offer alternative ways to reduce constipation.
The fluid is administered into the rectum and large intestine through the anus.
Some enemas contain a laxative.
Most of them contain water and salt, mineral oil, or a mild laxative.
Purchase the kind your healthcare provider recommends.
Don’t add anything to it and ensure you follow the directions carefully.
Don’t take a stab at put together a “DIY” enema using your own supplies or liquids.
Side effects also depend on other factors, including underlying health conditions and age.
In older adults, warm water enemas may be needed to treat fecal impaction or prepare for a procedure.
It is especially dangerous for people over 55 and should never be used in children under age 2.
It can lead tohyperphosphatemiaan electrolyte disorder that involves high phosphate levels and low calcium levels in the blood.
You may experience stomach cramping or pain, or have nausea and diarrhea.
This also can occur with aglycerinlaxative.
Some people may have a more serious and systemicallergic responseto oil-based enemas.
People with a latex allergy, for example, should choose a latex-free product.
In older adults, mineral oil is considered a safer enema choice than phosphate enemas.Some products are sodium-free.
If you havehemorrhoids, enemas may cause extra pain.
The overuse of laxatives is one cause of rectal prolapse.
These medications can includenonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs(NSAIDs) and diuretics likeLasix(furosemide).
Complications and Warnings
Using an enema at home always comes with certain risks.
Talk to your healthcare provider about them, especially if you have regular constipation.
Enemas are used before tests such as a colonoscopy, which requires a clear view of the colon.
They are also used to relieve constipation when other measures have not been successful.
Enemas can create a health risk when performed at home or repeatedly.
They must be used under the supervision of a healthcare provider to avoid complications.
Always talk to your healthcare provider before attempting to give yourself an enema at home.
They can provide information about lifestyle changes, medication, and other interventions to improve digestion.
2020;99(40):e22517.
2023 Mar 9;15(3):e35939.
2023 Apr 12;15(4):e37509.
2019 Sep;53(8):e308-e315.
2022;2022:1-7. doi:10.1155/2022/1898610
Mounsey A, Raleigh M, Wilson A.Management of constipation in older adults.Am Fam Physician.
2015;92(6):500-504.
Fleetlabs.Mineral oil enema safety warnings.
2023 May;25(3):343-358. doi: 10.1007/s40272-023-00563-0
Cedars Sinai.Rectal prolapse.
2020;99(36):e21998.
2013 Apr 26;6:323-8. doi:10.2147/IJGM.S44417
