Will Colonic Hydrotherapy help you?

Cleansing the colon is the first step to health. It has a dramatic effect on energy levels, resulting in a feeling of immense inner well-being. Colonic Hydrotherapy is a natural treatment using filtered warm water coupled with special abdominal massage to gently cleanse the bowel of old and toxic residues. Throughout the 45 minute treatment the patient is assured of privacy and modesty at all times. The practice of colonic hydrotherapy has been in use since the days of the Egyptians more than 3000 years ago. In Britain, colonic hydrotherapy rooms were found in hospitals and doctors’ surgeries until the 1940’s. The war and then post-war staff shortages led to the gradual shrinking of the colonic service. Now, despite a vast increase in surgical procedures and the number of medical drugs available, more and more people are requesting colonic hydrotherapy as the safe, gentle treatment of choice.

What does the treatment consist of?

Colonic irrigation consists of slowly introducing warm filtered water into the colon under low pressure, via a small tube. When the colon is filled, the water flows out through a larger tube, bringing with it any loose debris. This process is carried out a number of times during the treatment, which lasts for 30 to 40 minutes. The result is a gentle flushing of the colon, and loosening of old faecal matter.

Is the treatment painful?

The treatment is not painful. You may feel a slight discomfort or pressure which is then released.

Where in the colon is the old faecal matter?

It can be in pockets in the colon wall, or diverticuli, or can be mixed with hardened mucus “glued” to any part of the colon wall.

How much old faecal debris can be stuck in the colon?

3-5lbs of debris is probably an average amount that can be lodged in the colon, although sometimes as much as 25lbs can be present (this does not include the “transient matter” present at any time).

Why doesn’t the debris stuck in the colon move through in the normal course of events?

Because the old matter will be lodged in pockets or stuck to the bowel wall. (It has been known for objects such as marbles to come through, after having been swallowed in childhood!)

Do colonics help diarrhoea?

Diarrhoea is often caused by pathogenic organisms or an irritant. Colonics are often very helpful in flushing them out. Diarrhoea can also be another form of constipation.

Can some people have debris stuck in the colon and not be ill?

Yes, although often people will display symptoms of a toxic condition before it turns into an identifiable or serious illness - e.g. fatigue and tiredness, skin problems, bad breath, joint pain, etc.

How long does it take to clean out the bowel completely?

It depends on the condition of the colon. People with minor problems may be “cleaned out” after 6 treatments or less. Someone who has many problems will need more. One session per week over a 4-6 week period is ideal and then as the individual requires.

Is it possible to perforate or overstretch the bowel through colonic irrigation?

No, due to a low pressure used (50 millibars, which is one quarter of the pressure of a normal heartbeat) and more often the bowel will be over stretched or distorted due to the retention of old faecal matter.

Does colonic irrigation wash out all the good bacteria in the bowel?

Most of the loose bacteria living in the colon will be expelled along with putrefactive bacteria and parasites. With the removal of old waste there will be a better chance of long-term colonisation of the bowel with good bacteria. In the short term “restocking” of the bowel flora along with diet will encourage these “good “ bacteria.

Are there any circumstances in which colonic irrigation is not recommended?

Yes. If the patient has severe cardiac disease, high blood pressure (above 160), aneurysm, cirrhosis, carcinoma of the colon or rectum, advanced pregnancy, any abdominal hernia and recent colon or rectal surgery. A qualified colonic therapist will take a detailed history and be made aware of any conditions for which colonic irrigation is not advised.

What should I do before and after a treatment?

Before treatment increase your water consumption to 1.5 - 2L of water daily. After treatment drink herb teas or thin soup, avoiding meat, bread and dairy foods for 24 hours. Bowel movement will usually return 36 - 48 hours after treatment.

Internal detoxification is often neglected, overlooked and misunderstood. Food allergies and intolerance can cause soft, frequent bowel motions, or worse, constipation, and when used the laxatives can cause painful cramping. These signs indicate that disease is starting on the inside, alerting us that something needs to be done before the condition worsens. If you suffer sensations of bloating, constipation, bowel spasms, IBS, wind, headaches, bad breath or even skin problems, then colonic detoxing may be of benefit to you. Wright Health Clinic is the first clinic in Stroud to offer Colonic Hydrotherapy.