Enema procedure
The instillation of fluid into the RECTUM through the ANUS to stimulate a BOWEL MOVEMENT. An enema may relieve CONSTIPATION or be part of the preparation to cleanse the COLON for diagnostic procedures or surgery. Frequent enemas may result in dependence on them for bowel movements. Eating a diet high in fiber helps promote healthy bowel motility to prevent constipation. Doctors sometimes prescribe enemas containing hydrocortisone (a corticosteroid medication) to treat ulcerative COLITIS, a form of INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE (IBD), to deliver the medication directly to the sites of INFLAMMATION.
See also CORTICOSTEROID MEDICATIONS; LAXATIVES.
