Treatment of constipation: what is the difference between enemas and suppositories?

Enemas and suppositories have one common task - to relieve symptoms of constipation or hemorrhoids. But they have different properties. What is the fundamental difference between enemas and suppositories and what should you be careful of when using them?

The difference between enemas and suppositories

When treating constipation, there is a significant difference between enemas and suppositories, although both are used to relieve constipation. An enema is a container of liquid that is poured into the rectum using a nozzle attached to a plastic or cloth bag. The liquid is passed into the rectum through this device to relieve constipation or to prepare patients for surgery.

Suppositories are small solid or semi-solid bars of a particular type of medication. The most commonly used type of suppository is made of glycerin and is used to relieve constipation, although other medications may also work as suppositories.

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Common features between enemas and suppositories

Both enemas and suppositories are given rectally and are typically used to cleanse the rectum and sigmoid colon (the part of the colon closest to the rectum) before surgery, after childbirth, and before flexible sigmoidoscopy (a diagnostic test for constipation). Enemas and suppositories are used to relieve constipation and rectal fecal impactions (complicated blockages in the rectum, hardened stools).

They may also be used in combination with oral laxatives to cleanse the colon in preparation for a barium enema (a type of rectal examination). Some suppositories contain stimulant laxatives.

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Laxative effect

In most cases, enemas and suppositories are used for very similar things and work in a very similar way. Both suppositories and enemas contain glycerin to help soften the stool or anus. Enemas tend to work more effectively at cleaning out the entire colon because they reach further and contain more healing agents with each use.

Suppositories also have a laxative effect, but are generally safer and can be used over a long period with fewer side effects. Glycerin, although solid, quickly melts inside the rectum and provides lubrication for difficult stools.

Consequences of improper use

It is important that patients do not use enemas or suppositories unless directed by a physician. Enemas can cause damage to the colon if used too frequently. Suppositories are generally not absorbed by the body, but they do cause rectal stimulation, which can lead to health problems.

If the rectal area is stimulated with suppositories too often, it can make stool difficult to pass without additional stimulation. This can lead to dependence on suppositories and laxatives.

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Different purposes of use

Both enemas and suppositories can be used for different purposes. The same type of device is used not only to relieve constipation, but also for female douching or for performing vaginal rinses, to eliminate infections. Suppositories can contain different types of medications and can be used to treat certain other diseases or conditions, most notably nausea, when oral medications cannot be used.

If symptoms of constipation persist or worsen, patients should stop using the medication and consult a doctor. In most cases, suppositories will not cause any negative symptoms other than mild discomfort immediately after insertion.

An enema may cause mild abdominal cramping pain and a strong desire to defecate. Treatment with suppositories and enemas should be used if constipation is accompanied by severe abdominal pain, blood in the stool, nausea, vomiting, fever - but do not do this without consulting a doctor.

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Composition of enemas and suppositories

Enemas and suppositories include docusate (Microenema), bisacodyl (Dulcolax suppositories), and sodium phosphate (Fleet enemas). These ingredients are intended for occasional use and are not recommended as a chronic laxative regimen unless used consistently as directed by a physician.

Patients should carefully follow the instructions when using enemas. The person should lie on the left side with the knees bent. The end of the enema should be slowly inserted into the rectum. The person should keep the enema in the rectum until a certain rectal pressure is reached and the urge to defecate is felt. Evacuation of feces usually occurs within a few minutes to an hour.

Precautionary measures

Enemas can cause irritation of the rectal area and sometimes lead to rectal gangrene. Therefore, continuous use of enemas is not recommended.

An enema can cause fluid and electrolyte imbalances in the blood if used on a regular basis.

To use laxatives safely and effectively, it is necessary

• Follow your doctor's instructions if a laxative has been prescribed.
• Carefully examine the manufacturer's packaging

For patients using enemas or rectal forms of laxatives:

• Read the instructions carefully before using this medicine.
• Lubricate the anus with Vaseline before inserting the enema applicator.
• Carefully insert the rectal tip of the enema applicator to prevent damage to the rectal wall.

Results can often be achieved with these medications

1. Bisacodyl - enemas from 15 minutes to 1 hour.
2. Docusate - enemas from 2 to 15 minutes.
3. Glycerin - enemas 15 minutes to 1 hour.
4. Mineral oil - enemas from 2 to 15 minutes.
5. Senna - enemas for 30 minutes, but can be used for up to 2 hours for some people.
6. Sodium phosphates – enema from 2 to 5 minutes.

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For patients using suppositories

If the suppository is too soft to insert into the anus, chill the suppository in the refrigerator for 30 minutes or run cold water over the suppository before removing the foil wrapper.

What do you need to insert a candle?

First, remove the foil wrapper and moisten the suppository with cold water. Lie on your side and use your finger to press the suppository and push it into your rectum.

Results can often be obtained with the following drugs:

1. bisacodyl suppositories - from 15 minutes to 1 hour.
2. Carbon dioxide-releasing candles - from 5 to 30 minutes.
3. Glycerin suppositories - from 15 minutes to 1 hour.
4. Senna suppositories - within 30 minutes, but some can use them for up to 2 hours.

There are many laxatives on the pharmaceutical market. The dosage of laxatives will vary from product to product. The number of enemas or number of suppositories you use depends on your doctor's recommendations. Follow your doctor's instructions if this medication has been prescribed to you, or follow the directions on the package if you buy this medication without a prescription.

Storage

1. Suppositories and enemas should be kept out of the reach of children.
2. Store medications in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture and direct sunlight. They should be protected from freezing.
3. You should not store old candles or those that are no longer needed.
4. Stay informed of all your doctor's recommendations.

Precautionary measures

Do not use any type of laxative if you are using suppositories or enemas if you have signs of appendicitis or inflammation of the intestines (such as stomach pain or lower abdominal pain, cramping, bloating, nausea, or vomiting). Instead, talk to your doctor as soon as possible. more often than your doctor orders.

This should not be done even if you have not gotten any results from the laxative unless you need it, i.e., "to cleanse your system," or as a "tonic to make you feel better." If you miss a bowel movement for a day or two

If you notice a sudden change in bowel habits or dysfunction that lasts longer than 2 weeks, or constipation keeps coming back, consult your doctor before using laxatives. This will prevent you from making your problem worse before it becomes more serious.

"Laxative Habits"

Laxative products are abused by many people. This practice is common due to the effects of the laxative to produce a bowel movement. In severe cases, the abuse of some laxatives causes damage to the nerves, muscles, and tissues of the intestines and colon. If you have questions about the use of laxatives, consult your doctor.

For patients using enemas or other rectal forms of laxatives:

Consult your doctor if you experience rectal bleeding, blistering, pain, burning, itching, or other signs of anal irritation before using this medication.

For patients using suppositories:

Do not lubricate the suppositories with mineral oil or petroleum jelly before inserting them into the rectum. This may affect the function of the suppositories. Moisten with water only.

An enema, on the contrary, can be lubricated with Vaseline or oils.

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Side effects

Along with the necessary treatment effect, the medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur, medical attention may be needed.

Consult your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur.

Less common adverse effects

Rectal bleeding, blisters, burning, itching, or pain (due to the enema)

There may be some side effects that usually do not require medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to these methods of treatment – enemas or suppositories.

Your doctor can also tell you how to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Call your healthcare provider if any of the following side effects continue or you have questions about them:

Irritation of the skin surrounding the rectal area

Other side effects not listed here may also occur in some patients. If you notice these other effects, consult your doctor. Consult your doctor for medical advice about your side effects when using suppositories and enemas.

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