Do hospitals do enemas?

You may give yourself a therapeutic enema at home as prescribed by your doctor. Sometimes, a nurse or technician will administer a therapeutic enema in the hospital setting or a barium enema as part of a diagnostic procedure.

Can enemas cause diverticulitis?

Enemas can be dangerous, particularly if there is an abnormality of the colon. In patients with diverticulitis, an enema may lead to worsening of the perforation and the requirement for surgical treatment.

Why would a doctor order a barium enema?

A barium enema is an x-ray of the colon and rectum. The colon and rectum make up the large intestine, which helps the body process waste. A barium enema helps doctors find health conditions in the colon and rectum, such as inflammation, polyps, and cancer. Barium is a contrast medium.

Can you buy an enema from the pharmacy?

Enemas are available for purchase at pharmacies for home use, but you should ask a doctor or nurse for specific instructions to avoid injury. Other types of enemas are administered to clean out the colon and better detect colon cancer and polyps.

What symptoms would lead a doctor to recommend a barium enema?

In the past, your doctor may have recommended a barium enema to determine the cause of signs and symptoms, such as the following:

• Abdominal pain.
• Rectal bleeding.
• Changes in bowel habits.
• Unexplained weight loss.
• Chronic diarrhea.
• Persistent constipation.

What are the side effects of barium enema?

These include: laxative side effects – side effects such as feeling sick, a mild headache and bloating are common, but shouldn’t last long. barium side effects – barium is usually harmless, but it can cause an upset stomach or constipation, and can cause an allergic reaction in very rare cases.

On which side should the patient lie for an enema?

The left lateral position is the most appropriate position for giving an enema because of the anatomical characteristics of the colon.