Enema: Uses, Benefits, and What You Should Know

Nowadays, digestive health is something people don’t take seriously. Modern dietary habits that are low in fiber and high in processed foods, along with sedentary lifestyles and insufficient water intake, result in digestive problems like constipation for many in Qatar, especially in hot weather. If not addressed properly, constipation can significantly impact daily life, influencing everything from energy levels to mood.

While traditional constipation remedies such as increased fiber intake, water consumption, or changing lifestyles do not provide immediate relief, an enema does. When used occasionally and appropriately, it is safe and effective. So, your busy lifestyle calls for a quick solution like an enema to restore your digestive wellness and overall vitality.

What is an Enema?

An enema is a process in which your large intestine or colon is cleaned by injecting fluids into your rectum or delivering medication. It can be done either by yourself or with the help of a healthcare professional. People commonly use the term "enema" to describe both the procedure and the fluid or product used to flush their colon. 

The devices used to perform the procedure include a bottle or a bag. Its liquid is released after it is placed inside the rectum. The type of enema, how it's used, and what liquid ingredients are inside it depend on why you are using the enema. Different types of enemas based on the fluid type used are sodium phosphate enemas, glycerin enemas, bisacodyl enemas, mineral oil enemas, barium enemas, and some other homemade enema solutions. 

There are two main types of enemas based on their purpose: cleansing and retention enemas.

Cleansing Enema:

It stays in the body for a short time and helps in quickly flushing out the contents of your colon. This type of cleansing is done to treat conditions such as constipation or to prepare the patient for a procedure.

Retention Enema:

In the case of a retention enema, the liquid stays in the body for a long time before you have a bowel movement. It means you will be taking medication via enema, and therefore, the drug will take its time to reach your intestines.

An enema is recommended mainly to relieve constipation, treat fecal impaction, prepare for surgery or a colonoscopy, have an imaging procedure, or simply receive medicine directly into your colon.

Benefits of Using an Enema

The following are some of the benefits of using an enema that you should know about.

1. Quick relief from constipation

Undergoing an enema for constipation relief helps to soften and flush out hard, dry stool. Compared to the oral laxatives that may take hours to take action, it can provide you immediate relief.

2. Helps in detoxification

The procedure helps remove toxins from the body, improve immune function, facilitate weight loss, optimise digestion, lift mood, and reduce the risk of colon cancer. But it is only recommended to do it occasionally because daily or excessive use can make the bowel lazy over time or cause electrolyte imbalances.

3. Reduces bloating and abdominal discomfort

The heavy, full feeling or the abdominal discomfort caused by constipation can be reduced when the enema is done. Because it flushes out trapped gas, stool, and waste materials from your intestines, allowing you to feel lighter and more relaxed.

4. Prepares the bowel for medical exams

To ensure accurate results and prevent complications when conducting procedures like colonoscopies or certain surgeries, the doctors prescribe enemas for the patients to empty out their colons. It is because doctors need a clean internal environment for medical examinations.

5. Restores regular bowel movement

An enema, if used carefully once in a while, can stimulate the natural urge to go. It will help to retrain the bowel if normal rhythms have been disrupted by constipation or illness. This can be especially helpful for people recovering from surgery, medication side effects, or prolonged digestive issues.

When Should You Use an Enema?

An enema is used in cases such as the following:

• If remedies such as increasing fiber in your diet, drinking more water, and using mild laxatives do not alleviate your constipation, an enema can be used to provide quick and effective relief.
• It should be used when advised by a physician for certain medical conditions, such as severe constipation, after surgery, or during recovery from illness.
• It is also used before certain procedures like colonoscopies, abdominal surgeries, and some gynecological exams that require a completely clean colon.
  

Precautions and Possible Risks

• Avoid daily or long-term use of enemas, as it may hinder the natural bowel movement, making it dependent on enemas.
• There is a risk of dehydration and electrolyte imbalance if an enema is used often, causing the body to lose essential fluids and minerals.
• Also, the use of harsh solutions or incorrect insertion techniques may cause irritation or damage to the rectum.
• There is a possibility of worsening the underlying health issues like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), heart problems, or kidney disease.
• Patients with allergic reactions or sensitivities may react to additives or ingredients in commercial enema solutions, which can be a risk.
  

How Does An Enema Work?

First, a specific fluid is inserted gently into the rectum based on the type of fluid used through the anus using a nozzle or tube. Within the intestine, the fluid softens the hardened, dry stool, making passage easier. The fluid's presence creates pressure inside the bowel by gently stretching the rectal walls. It triggers peristalsis — natural wave-like muscle movements that push stool toward the anus. 

If an oil enema is used, the solution used will be oil-based, which makes evacuation smoother and reduces discomfort. The body will start sending strong signals to evacuate the bowels when the pressure increases. Thereby the waste material is expelled from the body, providing quick relief from constipation or preparing the bowel for procedures. This is how an enema works.

Medication For Better Bowel Function

When talking about medication for better bowel function, CNC offers a range of products for better bowel function for its customers, catering to their specific needs. The major products provided are the following.

1. Agiolax Granules 250g

Type: Natural fibre-based laxative
Purpose: Softens stool and promotes bowel movements by combining psyllium husk and senna to help relieve constipation.
Ideal for: Individuals seeking a natural remedy for regular bowel maintenance.
Usage: Typically taken once daily with water.

2. Lact-Q Fruit Oral Solution 250ml

Type: Fruit-flavoured oral solution
Purpose: Provides gentle relief from constipation, suitable for regular use.
Ideal For: Individuals preferring a palatable, easy-to-consume laxative option.
Usage: Dosage as directed, often once daily.

3. Dulcolax 5mg Tablets (40s)

Type: Stimulant laxative (Bisacodyl)
Purpose: Provides effective relief from constipation by stimulating intestinal muscles.
Ideal For: Short-term relief of occasional constipation.
Usage: Usually taken before bed, it has an effect the following morning.

4. Enema Kit

Type: Colon cleansing kit
Purpose: Aids in the complete evacuation of the bowels to relieve extreme constipation or get ready for medical procedures.
Ideal For: Individuals requiring immediate and complete bowel cleansing.
Usage: Used as per instructions, ensuring safety and comfort.

Conclusion

Digestive wellness is especially important for your overall well-being. You should have regular bowel habits to remove waste efficiently, prevent bloating, and enhance your digestive health. If natural remedies are not working for you, enemas can offer you quick and effective relief. CNC Pharmacy has a trusted range of high-quality bowel care solutions you can rely on. So, natural fiber supplements to fast-acting enema kits are all one click away from you. Visit Care n Cure pharmacy today!