Some people who are constipated may use enemas with heated water, coffee or other liquid.
The use of caffeinated coffee was recommended in Germany. The caffeine is absorbed across the mucosa, and this acts as a defecation stimulant for some patients.
The intent is that the water should be warm, but without a thermometer it is easy to overheat the water.
If the water is too hot, then a thermal mucosal burn may occur with subsequent proctocolitis.
Complications may include:
(1) anorectal strictures
(2) rectal perforation
(3) anorectal bleeding
(4) sepsis
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