A colonic, an alternative treatment used to cleanse the body of wastes and improve a variety of medical conditions, removes hardened fecal matter from the bowel by washing water through the colon. According to the Johns Hopkins Medicine website, the colonics process remains an untested procedure with many risks and side effects. Dangers increase for those over the age of 65 and those with bowel disease like Crohn's disease, diverticulitis or ulcerative colitis.
Bowel Wall Perforation
Undergoing a colonic procedure may cause a perforation in the bowel wall, reports Johns Hopkins Medicine. The tip of rubber tubing used to transmit water to the colon can create a tear, as can high levels of water pressure. According to "The New York Times," a bowel wall perforation requires immediate medical attention. This condition results in the intestinal contents leaking into the abdominal cavity, which causes peritonitis, an inflammation. Complications of a bowel wall perforation include bleeding, infection and abscesses. Physicians usually recommend surgery to close the hole, although occasionally removal of part of the intestine becomes necessary.
Allergic Reaction
Those undergoing a colonic procedure may experience an allergic reaction to the latex rubber tubing, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine. Latex allergies cause a variety of symptoms, including sneezing, runny nose, itching, hives, wheezing and anaphylactic shock, reports MayoClinic.com. There is no cure for latex allergies, but medications to reduce symptoms are often prescribed. Physicians recommend seeking immediate medical attention if a severe allergic reaction occurs from exposure to latex during a colonic procedure.
Electrolyte Imbalance
According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, an imbalance in electrolytes such as potassium and sodium may develop from a colonic procedure. Minerals needed for bloodstream absorption are normally found in the large intestine, and can flush out of the body during the treatment, which may lead to difficulty walking, water retention, confusion, drowsiness, muscle weakness, an increase in blood sugar levels and seizures, according to The Merck Manual of Health & Aging. Physicians treat an electrolyte balance by recommending supplements or foods high in minerals often lost during a colonic procedure.
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