Sometimes constipation is a very annoying and uncomfortable thing, isn't it? It's very difficult when you have a full stomach and go through the day without any comfort. So at times like this, or to cleanse your intestines before a medical test, your doctor may ask you to use an enema. Today, we are talking about the Sodium Phosphate Enema, which many of us use at that time. Let's clearly know what it is, how to use it, and what things to be careful about.
What really happens with this enema?
Simply put, this is a medicine that relieves constipation. To be precise, it is a laxative, which means a type of laxative. When we take it into the body through the anus, it draws more water into our intestines.
Imagine what happens when you add a little water to a pile of dry, hard stool. This water softens the hard stool. It makes it easier to pass. It also creates pressure inside the intestines. This pressure stimulates the muscles in the intestines and pushes the stool out.
This is mainly used in two cases:
1. Get quick relief from occasional constipation.
2. Clean your intestines completely before a medical test, such as a colonoscopy.
Things you need to tell your doctor before using this medicine
This is very important. Before you use this enema, you should definitely tell your doctor if you have any of the following health conditions. Your doctor will use this information to decide whether this medicine is right for you.
| Do you have these conditions? |
|---|
| If you have abnormalities in the levels of salts (electrolytes) in your blood, such as sodium, phosphate, potassium, or calcium. |
| If you have problems such as colitis, chronic constipation, or intestinal obstruction. |
| If there is a change in bowel habits for more than two weeks. |
| If you have chest pain. |
| If the body is dehydrated (`Dehydration`). |
| If you follow a low-salt diet. |
| If you have heart failure. |
| If you have kidney disease. |
| If you have symptoms of stomach ache, nausea, or vomiting. |
| If you have an allergic reaction to sodium phosphate or any other medicine, food, or dye. |
| If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant. |
| If you are a breastfeeding mother. |
How to use an enema correctly?
This is very simple, but it must be done exactly. Remember, this is for rectal use only. Do not take it by mouth for any reason! Use it exactly as your doctor tells you.
1. First, wash your hands thoroughly with soap.
2. Remove the cap from the enema bottle. Apply a little lubricant to the tip of the bottle. You can also use a little water for this.
3. Lie on your left side. Keep the bottom leg (left leg) straight and the top leg (right leg) bent at the knee and brought to your stomach.
4. Lift the upper buttock slightly to expose the rectal area.
5. Now very gently and slowly insert the tip of the enema bottle into the anus.
6. Squeeze the bottle until it is empty.
7. Wait a few seconds before removing the bottle. Then remove the bottle and press your buttocks together for a few seconds.
8. To prevent the medicine from coming out, lie down for at least 15 minutes .
What to do if you overdose? If you think you have overdosed on this medicine, immediately contact the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital. Or go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
If used for children...
Doctors sometimes recommend this medicine even for children over 2 years old. But it should only be done on medical advice. So before giving this to your child, talk to your doctor about it carefully.
Other medications that may interact with this medicine
If you are taking other medications, they may interact with this enema. Be especially careful with the following medications:
- Aspirin
- Some medications for high blood pressure (e.g. captopril, enalapril, lisinopril, losartan, valsartan)
- Diuretics
- NSAIDs (e.g. ibuprofen, naproxen) for pain and inflammation
This list is not complete, so tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking (including vitamins and herbal remedies) .
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medicine, this one can cause side effects. Some of them should be reported immediately, while others are usually not serious.
| Side effect | What to do |
|---|---|
| Side effects that you should report to your doctor immediately | |
| Allergic reactions (skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat) | Seek medical advice immediately. |
| Rapid or irregular heartbeat | Seek medical advice immediately. |
| Kidney damage (decreased urine output, swelling in the ankles, hands, or feet) | Seek medical advice immediately. |
| Rectal pain, burning, or bleeding after using an enema | Seek medical advice immediately. |
| Seizures | Seek medical advice immediately. |
| Usually not serious (but tell your doctor if it persists) | |
| Bloating | Tell your doctor if it persists or is bothersome. |
| Nausea and vomiting | Tell your doctor if it persists or is bothersome. |
| Stomach pain | Tell your doctor if it persists or is bothersome. |
One important thing! If you still have trouble passing stool after using this enema, don't ignore it. See your doctor immediately. Also, drink plenty of water throughout the day to prevent dehydration.
Take-Home Message
- Sodium phosphate enemas are used for occasional constipation or before medical tests, not for daily use.
- If you have kidney disease, heart disease, or problems with blood salt levels, be sure to tell your doctor before using this.
- When using an enema, follow the instructions exactly. In particular, lie down for about 15 minutes after use.
- If you do not pass stool after using an enema, if you experience rectal bleeding, or if you experience any other serious side effects, see a doctor immediately or go to a hospital's Emergency Department (ETU).
- Drink plenty of water and fluids throughout the day to prevent dehydration.
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