Collagenous colitis is a form of inflammatory bowel disease that affects the large intestine and causes chronic, watery diarrhea. It develops when a thick layer of collagen (a type of connective tissue) builds up just beneath the lining of the colon. This change can only be confirmed by examining a small tissue sample (biopsy) taken during a colonoscopy. In medical coding, collagenous colitis is classified under ICD-10 code K52.8.
Symptoms may begin suddenly or come and go. Most people experience:
The exact cause of collagenous colitis is not fully understood, but several factors can raise the likelihood of developing the condition:
At GastroDoxs, our board-certified gastroenterologists specialize in diagnosing and treating collagenous colitis with tailored plans that fit your lifestyle. Whether you prefer an in-office visit or the convenience of telehealth, we're committed to guiding you through every step-from colonoscopy and biopsy to ongoing symptom management. Call us today or book online to take control of your digestive health and find lasting relief.
We've successfully treated more than 1.5K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.
With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
Collagenous colitis is a type of bowel inflammation affecting the large intestine, characterized by a thick layer of collagen under the colon lining and causing chronic watery diarrhea.
The ICD-10 code for collagenous colitis is K52.8, used by doctors and insurance teams for diagnosis and record-keeping.
The main symptoms include ongoing watery diarrhea, sudden urgency to use the bathroom, mild abdominal pain or cramping, fatigue, weight loss, bloating, and gas.
The exact cause is unknown, but risk factors include an immune reaction to your own tissue, certain medications (like NSAIDs or acid reducers), changes in gut bacteria from infections, and a family history of bowel problems.
Treatment often involves anti-inflammatory medications such as budesonide or mesalamine, dietary changes (avoiding caffeine, dairy, fatty, and spicy foods), probiotics to support gut bacteria, and hydration support with electrolyte drinks as needed.
It is recommended to avoid caffeine, dairy products, fatty foods, and spicy meals. Eating smaller, more frequent meals can also help manage symptoms.
Diagnosis requires a colonoscopy with a biopsy to visually inspect and confirm the presence of a thick collagen layer under the colon lining.
Yes. GastroDoxs in Houston has experienced gastroenterologists who specialize in diagnosing and treating collagenous colitis.
Some people experience short-lived flare-ups that resolve quickly, while others may require longer-term treatment to manage ongoing symptoms.
You should see a gastroenterologist if you have persistent watery diarrhea, abdominal pain, sudden urgency to use the bathroom, or any digestive symptoms that do not improve with standard home care.
