Enema Equipment

The enema bag is an essential part of the enema kit. Its purpose is to hold the water or solution as well as administer it. The enema bag will generally have a hook on one end to hang it as well as a hose on the other end. Enema bags come in many different sizes and varieties. The height above the ground at which the enema bag is hung determines the pressure of the water or solution. A recommended starting height is 2-3 feet above the ground.

There are three general types of enema bags. The most commonly used is the closed rubber bag, which can also be used as a hot water bag and can be purchased at any local pharmacy. It is extremely durable and usually lasts a lifetime. The open bag or fountain is collapsible and is often used when people are traveling, but it is warned that the open design can lead to spillage. The disposable bag is found in hospitals but can be purchased at most pharmacies. Some people prefer these bags because they are transparent allowing you to see the fluid level as it is being administered. Disposable bags are usually discarded after a few dozen uses.

Enema Nozzles and Clamps

The enema nozzle is another essential piece of enema equipment, as it is the part of the enema kit that is inserted into the rectum. There are many different kinds of enema nozzles on the market and some are specially made for people who have trouble with fissures and hemorrhoids. It is often recommended that a lubricant is used when inserting the nozzle, to prevent irritation and discomfort. When administering the water or fluid, the clamp on the nozzle helps control the flow.

Rubber Hose or Colon Tube

The enema tube is the device through which the contents of the enema bag are delivered to the colon through the rectum. Medium sized tubes are often recommended as smaller sizes can accidentally slide too deep inside the rectum.

Other Enema Accessories

An IV stand is sometimes used for home-administered enemas because of its ease of use. The hook on the enema bag can be attached to the IV stand and the height can be easily adjusted to control the rate of the fluid flow.

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A fleet enema is a brand name for a saline laxative, used as an enema to help treat constipation. In any enema a device, usually an enema bag or smaller enema syringe containing liquid, is used to introduce liquid to the rectum and to differing degrees to the colon. There are several reasons for doing so, but a fleet enema is specifically used to help clear the bowel. Fleet enemas contain sodium phosphates as active ingredients. These are salts (different forms) of phosphoric acid. Sodium phosphates are also used in a range of food products and are generally considered safe for use in humans.

Saline laxatives work by holding water in your colon and preventing it from being absorbed. When they are given as an enema, as with a fleet enema, they cause a strong urge to evacuate the bowel and descending colon, and assist in this by hydrating any stools that were hard to pass.

Fleet enemas are most often used to treat constipation that has not been resolved by less invasive methods such as dietary and lifestyle changes, or fiber supplements. Although this treatment is available over the counter in many countries, it is always advisable to discuss your condition with your health care professional before taking any type of laxative.

Fleet enemas are also used in some cases to empty the bowel before a rectal examination or a surgical procedure.

In adults, the normal dosage for fleet enemas is 120mL, and in children half this amount. Children under 2 should not be given this medication unless on advice from a doctor. The enema is administered by inserting the tube into your anus while lying down on your left side, and squeezing the fleet enema bag so that the contents are introduced to your rectum. The nozzle can be removed, but you should remain lying down until you feel the urge to empty your bowel.

Because they contain phosphate salts, fleet enemas should not be used by people suffering from kidney disease, or anyone with imbalances of electrolytes or those on a low salt diet. You should consult your doctor if you have any other known health condition or unusual symptoms, to discuss whether this is the most suitable treatment for you. You should also discuss the suitability of this treatment with your doctor if you are pregnant or breast feeding.

As with any laxative, regular use can lead to dependence. Fleet enema should only be used when necessary and the directions on the product should be followed carefully.

In addition to the saline laxative, there is a mineral oil form of fleet enema. This is a lubricant laxative, which also helps you empty your bowel if you are suffering from constipation, without irritating your intestine.

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