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imodium and rowasa?

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Ulcerative Colitis
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Posted 1/26/2017 12:42 AM (GMT 0)
My Lialda has not been working well enough to wipe out this flare so my doc put me on rowasa since my problems are mostly at night when i try to sleep (up every hour, not a lot comes out but urgency). i tried the rowasa last night but could only leave it in for about ten minutes. I'm wondering if anyone has tried Imodium? Thanks! smhair smile mad
Posted 1/26/2017 1:25 AM (GMT 0)
I have used Benadryl in the past to sleep, it quiets my gut down. Only used Immodium during daytime but should be no problem using at night temporarily if sleep is what you are aiming for. Don't give up on Rowasa too soon, keep trying and you'll be able to retain longer and longer each time. Unlike Immodium and Benadryl the enema actually heals that area and is a very valuable RX in our go-to kit for help from time to time.
Posted 1/26/2017 3:09 AM (GMT 0)
If you're badly inflamed then it's going to be difficult to hold all of the enema fluid in at first. However not all of it is expelled, some remains it will heal you and it will get easier. Here's some tips:

  • When you first start using enemas, use them in the bathroom very close to a toilet as they can come up very quick and unexpected. As you get better at them, and more confident, you can administer them in bed.
  • Add extra Vaseline (petroleum jelly) to the tip of the enema.
  • Warm the enema up to body temperature before administering. Put it in a pocket for a while before using, or warm it up under an armpit.
  • Squeeze all of the air out of the bottle before administering. You do not want to inject any air into your bowel as it will both be uncomfortable and make it likely you will need to urgently evacuate the enema fluid.
  • Lay an old towel down as any drips of the enema fluid can stain clothing, carpet, etc.
  • Use one of the positions described in the instructions.
  • Administer the enema slowly, too quickly and you will be less successful. If you wish, you can do one half the bottle first, wait a few minutes, and then administer the rest.
  • Stay reclined on your left side for about 20 minutes to allow the enema fluid to be absorbed. Retire for the night.
  • It takes practice to hold the enema in for 7 hours. Do not get discouraged, and keep trying. Even if you evacuate part of the enema, some will likely remain and heal you. As you heal, it will be easier to retain them for longer lengths of time.
Posted 1/26/2017 5:28 AM (GMT 0)
I made occasional use of Imodium, but let my GI know.
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