“Intestinal discomfort after enema accident?”
Hello, I recently took an enema and was trying to be careful but when I felt full I accidentally turned the valve the wrong way and added more pressure. I had to evacuate straight away. I thought nothing of it and finished the rest of the enema. I have had a strange sensation in my left side since then (yesterday) There is a little tenderness but no strong pain or blood apparent.
I am worried I may have perforated my bowel can you please tell me if my situation is a cause for immediate concern, or if you recommend I wait to see how things progress.
I am worried I may have perforated my bowel can you please tell me if my situation is a cause for immediate concern, or if you recommend I wait to see how things progress.
Male | 31 years old
Complaint duration: 1 days
Medications: none
Conditions: h pylori
3 Answers
Does not sound like a perforation, which would be very difficult to do with just a fluid enema. If pain resolves then no evaluation is needed. A perforated bowel usually causes intense pain that will result in an ER visit.
Enemas have been used as an effective means to evacuate stool from the lowest portion of the GI tract in chronically constipated patients. Perforation from enema usage, however rare, can cause a serious and life threatening situation. Patients who are experiencing symptoms, should contact their primary care physician for further guidance and evaluation or present to their local Emergency Room.
Lynn M. O’Connor, MD MPH FACS FASCRS
Lynn M. O’Connor, MD MPH FACS FASCRS
Damage to the bowel lining has been reported with incidents like this and so I suggest that you consult a specialist soon.
