A 50-year-old member asked:
Is it okay to use warm water instead of a fleet enema (sodium bisphosphate)?
2 doctor answers • 2 doctors weighed in
Dr. Scott Browninganswered
Colon and Rectal Surgery 32 years experience
Yes: It really depends why you are doing an enema. If you have been advised to do a fleets enema in preparation for a procedure, it would be best to follow that recommendation. If you are taking a daily or periodic enema to aid bowel function, then tap water may be adequate. In theory, warm water relaxes the bowel, so a warm water enema may be less effective than a room or tap temperature enema.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
6.4k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Dr. Robert Cloudanswered
Colon and Rectal Surgery 43 years experience
Enema: Tap water enemas are fine. However, if you are having problems with constipation at age 53, you should see your physician for further workup.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
4.4k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Similar questions
A 48-year-old member asked:
How long do fleet enemas (sodium bisphosphate) work?
1 doctor answer • 1 doctor weighed in
Dr. Evans Priestonanswered
Pharmacology 46 years experience
Fleet Enema (sodium bisphosphate): In most people, fleet enemas (sodium bisphosphate) normally produce results within an hour.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
4.9k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
A 38-year-old member asked:
What are the differences between a fleet enema (sodium bisphosphate) and a regular enema?
1 doctor answer • 1 doctor weighed in
Dr. Arthur Helleranswered
Gastroenterology 45 years experience
Bottle or bag: Fleet's brand enemas come in a variety of types-phosphate, saline, oil. They come in pre-filled bottles. Regular enema is tap water, often hung in a bag (looks like a hot water bottle with a hose and nozzle). Do not use soap suds-very irritating to lining of colon.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.7k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Last updated Oct 7, 2019
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