Colon hydrotherapy is a popular method used to cleanse the intestinal tract, although there are a variety of potentially harmful risks associated with this practice. Some of the most common colon hydrotherapy risks include bacterial infections, bowel perforation, and electrolyte imbalance. Medical conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease may be worsened by the use of this colon cleansing method. Additional colon hydrotherapy risks may include an inability to have a bowel movement without the use of colon cleansing products or allergic reactions to the herbs used for the cleansing process. Questions or concerns about the possible colon hydrotherapy risks in a specific situation should be discussed with a doctor or other medical professional.
Bacterial infections are among the most common colon hydrotherapy risks. The use of contaminated equipment is the chief cause of these infections, causing most medical professionals to suggest that sterile and disposable equipment is used for each procedure. In addition to harmful bacteria, the intestines contain healthy bacteria that aids in the digestive process. Colon cleansing procedures can remove this healthy bacteria, leaving the body more susceptible to infection.
Bowel perforation is perhaps the most dangerous of the possible colon hydrotherapy risks and can cause life-threatening complications. A tear in the walls of the intestines may require surgical repair in order to avoid internal bleeding and bowel obstruction. This complication is most likely to happen when a person attempts to perform a colon cleansing procedure at home instead of under the supervision of a doctor.
Electrolyte imbalances may occur as a result of colon hydrotherapy. This typically occurs when too much water is absorbed during treatment, depleting the body of necessary nutrients. Vomiting, heart failure, and fluid accumulation in the lungs are possible side effects of an electrolyte imbalance.
Inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis may be aggravated during colon hydrotherapy, causing symptoms to worsen. The presence of hemorrhoids or tumors are usually a contraindication for this type of treatment. If colon hydrotherapy is used too often, it may become difficult or impossible to have a normal bowel movement without the use of colon cleansing products. A variety of herbs are sometimes used during treatment, and some people may experience allergic reactions or other complications due to sensitivities to these herbs. Possible colon hydrotherapy risks should be discussed with a doctor before choosing this type of treatment to make sure that it is safe for the individual patient.