Among all medical procedures, enema has become the topic of jokes more often than others. Perhaps that is why many people have a rather skeptical attitude towards it, as something shameful. Be that as it may, each of us at least once in our lives will definitely have to resort to such a procedure. So it would be useful to learn how to properly do an enema at home. Let's try to master this wisdom.
What is an enema
This word simultaneously means 2 concepts at once.
First of all, this is the name of a medical procedure. Its essence is the introduction of various liquids into the rectum or large intestine through the anus, or, as doctors say: rectally.
This term is also used to refer to various tools for such manipulations. In the old days they were called "klisters".
Why is this procedure done
Although there are so many uses for enemas, they can all be divided into 2 broad categories:
- purification;
- treatment.
The first variety includes cases of cleaning the intestines from feces. Most often, these are constipation, preparation for operations, childbirth, medical procedures and similar manipulations.
The second variety differs in the composition of the injected fluid. As you know, the intestinal walls are very sensitive and able to quickly absorb various healing substances. This property of them was discovered in ancient times and has since been actively used in medicine. This category has several subcategories.
- Directly medicated enemas.
- Nutritious or preventive.
What devices are used for enema
There are 3 types of tools for this procedure.
Rubber pear. This device comes in a variety of sizes. The length of the tips and the material from which they are made (plastic and rubber) also differ
Mug of Esmarch. This tool is perfectly familiar to anyone who knows how to properly do an enema. It consists of a plastic/rubber/iron fluid reservoir (1-2L) with a flexible tube (1.5m), clip and detachable tip. Esmarch's mug can be disposable and reusable. Sometimes a removable combination heating pad is used as a reservoir
Disposable enemas. These are small plastic bottles sold with ready-made liquid. In domestic spaces, they are not veryare common, but in the United States they are actively used by residents instead of rubber pears or Esmarch mugs, which, by the way, most Americans do not know anything about
What liquids can be used for enema
The most common substance for rectal lavage is water. The cleaner it is, the better. Experts advise taking boiled or at least filtered water. It is acceptable to use mineral, but without gas.
As for the temperature, for a regular enema it is best to warm it up to 37 degrees - that is, H2O should be slightly warmer than body temperature. The fact is that when using the Esmarch mug, the liquid will cool down a little while passing through the flexible tube.
Warm water at this temperature relaxes the colon, better cleanses and dissolves feces, has an antispasmodic effect and is absorbed faster.
The maximum water temperature for an enema is +45 °C. Such procedures are usually used only as a treatment for prostatitis in men.
Minimum low temperature H2O - 0°C. The manipulations are from zero to room and are usually carried out for emergency cooling of the whole body, and also, if necessary, to prevent the absorption of fluids and toxins.
Besides purified water, apply:
- medicinal infusions (chamomile or calendula, etc.);
- solutions of table s alt or magnesia (to lower intracranial pressure);
- glycerin or its mixtures with water;
- soap solutions;
- natural and synthetic oils (forbowel lubrication before other procedures and with particularly persistent constipation);
- water with the addition of soda or vinegar (lemon juice) - to shift the pH of feces to the alkaline or acid side.
Indications for use
Today, enema is positioned almost as a cure for all diseases in the world, a means for rejuvenation and a procedure without which the body will not be able to fully function.
Many beauty salons offer various healing and detox enemas among their list of services. And many fashionistas do this procedure with the same frequency as beauty masks.
Make no mistake: an enema is not a panacea, despite its effectiveness. Our body is designed in such a way that if it is he althy, then it is able to get rid of toxins. Therefore, by doing this instead of him without urgent need, you are grossly interfering with his work, violating it.
In addition, frequent enemas affect the intestinal microflora, destroying it. As for this procedure as a means of losing weight, this is a myth. A balanced diet, regular exercise and hormonal control will help to lose / not gain extra pounds.
As for enema, although it is a simple and seemingly harmless procedure, you should consult a doctor before deciding on it. Especially in the case of children. Ideally, the doctor, based on the results of the tests, should select the appropriate composition and its volume.
If a whole course of enemas is required, it is advisable to take tests before and after taking it. This will allow you to controlsituation, as well as evaluate the effectiveness/ineffectiveness of procedures.
An indication for an urgent enema may be constipation. But if possible, it is worth discussing the dosage with a specialist at least online or by phone.
As for home-grown experts from the Internet and young old women on the benches at the entrance, then, mindlessly following their advice, you risk harming your he alth.
Contraindications
Before you figure out how to do an enema at home, you should pay attention to cases when this procedure is contraindicated:
- Allergy.
- Inflammation of the colon mucosa.
- Hemorrhoids and fissures.
- Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.
- Kidney failure.
How to do an enema to cleanse the intestines using Esmarch's mug
Before starting the procedure, prepare everything you may need. This is not only an enema and an injected solution of the desired temperature, but also fasteners for it, oilcloth, disposable gloves and petroleum jelly or other mineral oil. If you are dealing with a bedridden patient, prepare the vessel.
Before starting the procedure, the enema tip should be disinfected or boiled. Ideally, each family member using the Esmarch mug should have their own copy of the tip. Or you can purchase a disposable version at the pharmacy.
So, how to do a colon cleansing enema?
- First thingEsmarch's mug is being prepared. 1-2 liters of liquid of the desired temperature is poured into it. The tip is lubricated with Vaseline. Further, this tool is suspended at a height of 1.5 m above the floor. To do this, you can use a regular hanger or hook the mug on the mezzanine doors. The next step is to open the faucet, release excess air. When the water has gone, the tube is blocked. Now the tool is ready. Time to take care of the patient.
- An oilcloth is placed on the couch / bed. On its edge on the left side lies the "client". His buttocks stick out a little back, and his knees are slightly bent and pressed against his stomach. Place a bowl under the edge of the bed/couch in case of a leak.
- The next step is the most responsible. Before committing, it is better to wear disposable gloves. With one hand, the buttocks are carefully moved apart, and with the other, the tip of Esmarch's mug is gently inserted into the anus. This is done with movements resembling screwing. You only need to insert the tip a couple of centimeters before it hits the fecal matter or the intestinal wall. Now you can carefully open the faucet and release the liquid.
- During this procedure, the patient may have a specific feeling and desire to go to the toilet. If such urges appear, it is worth taking a few deep breaths, which will help to restrain. As soon as Esmarch's mug is empty, the faucet is closed so that the intestines are not filled with air. Now the tip is carefully removed and time is given to lie down.
- As soon as there are unbearable urges to defecate - it's time to run to"white friend" and use it for its intended purpose. In the case of a lying "client", he is turned over on his back and a vessel is placed under him.
- If constipation has been prolonged and a lot of feces have accumulated in the intestines, the procedure may be repeated. However, there must be at least an hour between the first and second breaks.
- When learning how to properly do an enema, do not forget about the final stage - cleaning. After use, the Esmarch bowl should be disassembled and washed with soap, it is better to sterilize the tip.
How to do a pear enema
This procedure is similar to the one described above. The difference is only in a smaller volume of injected fluid. As a rule, this tool is used to treat or treat constipation. While for a complete cleansing of the intestines, the volume of the pear will not be enough.
The main difference when using this tool is its care. So, you need to sterilize in boiling water the entire rubber bulb.
Otherwise standard algorithm.
- Tool preparation.
- Filling it with mortar.
- Arrangement of a place for the patient.
- Assuming a suitable position.
- Introduction of the tip of the pear into the anus.
- Filling liquid.
- Tool removal.
- Resting state 10-15 minutes.
- Going to the toilet.
Features of the procedure in children
Babies are a special category in this matter. Enemas are given to them only as a last resort and only on the recommendation of a doctor. The fact is that the crumbs have a very delicate intestine, it is easy to damage it. In addition, during an enema, beneficial bacteria are washed out of it and this contributes to the development of dysbacteriosis.
As a rule, such manipulation is recommended for constipation. But if everything is not so critical, it is better to try putting a glycerin candle.
In rare cases, it is prescribed as a detoxification agent for poisoning, infection, acetone syndrome, or as a way to locally deliver drugs to the intestines to relieve inflammation.
To understand how to properly do an enema for a child, you should know some distinctive nuances. Otherwise, the procedure is identical to that used for adults.
Babies do this manipulation with a rubber bulb. It is very important to choose the right dosage.
- Up to 6 months - 60-70 ml.
- From six months to a year - 120 ml.
- 1-2 years - up to 200 ml.
- 5-9 years - up to 320 ml.
- From 10 years - 0.5 years.
- From the age of 13 you can use the Esmarch cup.
In the process of performing the procedure, the legs are lifted up for babies so that they do not accidentally release water back ahead of time. For older and more conscious children, the traditional side lying position can be used.
After the enema, the child needs to lie down for about half an hour and only then go to the potty.
Do not forget: no matter what mothers, grandmothers, neighbors advise you, an enema for a child is done only in agreement withdoctor!
Can I give myself enemas without help?
Of course you can! This procedure is similar to that described above. However, there are differences. First, the pose. You will have to get on all fours, like a dog, and raise the fifth point as high as possible. Further, the tip of Esmarch's bowl is attached to the cherished place and the tap opens.
In this position, the procedure may cause pain. If they appear, turn off the tap and gently massage the stomach in a clockwise direction. When the "unrest" subsides, you can continue.
When all the water has entered, the tip of the instrument is carefully removed and the anus is "closed" with a panty liner or a tightly rolled cotton swab.
After 10-15 minutes, you can "uncork" and go on a date with a "white friend".
As another option on how to properly enema yourself, you can use the traditional lying position on your side. By the way, to facilitate this procedure, there are devices with a ready-made preparation.
Disposable enemas
In conclusion, consider how to properly make an enema from a pharmaceutical preparation. A similar option is a lifesaver in case of emergency. It's also great for self-application.
Single-use medications are prescribed for constipation and also for cleaning before medical research.
How to do an enema in front of similarprocedures? There are no special differences. You need to act according to the same algorithm.
- Prepare yourself, wash your hands.
- Lie on your left side or take another comfortable position for enema.
- Remove the cap and gently insert the tip of the tube into the anus.
- Press the bottle and inject its contents.
- Remove the tip from the anus and lie on your back or side until you feel the urge to defecate.
