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Indeterminate Colitis

At GastroDoxs in Houston, our experienced gastroenterologists provide comprehensive advanced state-of-the-art evaluation and personalized treatment plans for indeterminate colitis, ensuring accurate diagnosis and compassionate, supportive care close to home-empowering patients with relief and confidence in managing their digestive health locally.

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Texas Medical Board
Harris County Medical Society
American College of Gastroenterology
American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
Memorial hermann
Houston Methodist leading Medicine
HCA Houston Healthcare
Bharat Pothuri
Symptoms

What Is Indeterminate Colitis?

Indeterminate colitis is a form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that shows features of both Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. When doctors can't clearly classify which one it is after a colonoscopy and biopsy, they use this term. Early diagnosis helps guide the right treatment plan.

Common Symptoms

Symptoms can vary but often include:

  • Frequent diarrhea
  • Blood in the stool
  • Belly cramps or abdominal pain
  • Unintentional weight loss
  • Persistent fatigue or tiredness
  • Fever or night sweats during flares
  • Skin rashes or joint pain

Causes

There is no single known cause, but several factors may play a role:

  • Genetics and a family history of IBD
  • An abnormal immune response that attacks the gut
  • Environmental triggers such as infections, stress, or certain foods
  • Alterations in the balance of gut bacteria
Treatment

Treatment Options for Indeterminate Colitis in Houston

Treatment includes medications, nutrition, lifestyle support, and surgery:

  • Medications:
    • Aminosalicylates: Reduce gut inflammation during mild to moderate flare-ups.
    • Steroids: Control acute flares quickly under close supervision.
    • Immunosuppressants & Biologics: Target the immune response for long-term disease control.
  • Nutrition & Supplements:
    • Customized diet plan: Identify and avoid trigger foods while ensuring balanced nutrition.
    • Vitamin and mineral support: Iron, B12, vitamin D or other supplements to correct deficiencies.
  • Lifestyle Support:
    • Stress relief techniques: Mindfulness, meditation, or counseling to reduce flare triggers.
    • Safe exercise: Low-impact workouts like walking, yoga, or swimming to boost overall health.
  • Surgery:
    • Considered when medical and dietary therapies fail to control severe symptoms.
    • Referral to Houston's top GI surgeons for procedures such as colectomy or strictureplasty.

Why Choose GastroDoxs?

At GastroDoxs in Houston, we specialize in diagnosing and managing indeterminate colitis with a patient-first approach. From precise diagnostics and personalized treatment plans to ongoing support and education, our expert GI team is dedicated to helping you achieve long-term relief. Don't wait-book your appointment today and take the first step toward better digestive health.

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We've successfully treated more than 1.5K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.

20Y

Years of Experience

With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients

Bharat Pothuri

About the Author

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ICD-10 code for indeterminate colitis?

The ICD-10 code for indeterminate colitis is K52.3.

How is indeterminate colitis different from ulcerative colitis?

Indeterminate colitis displays overlapping features of both ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, making it difficult to classify as one or the other.

Is indeterminate colitis a serious condition?

It can be serious, but with early diagnosis and proper treatment, symptoms can be managed effectively to maintain a good quality of life.

Can changing my diet alone treat indeterminate colitis?

While dietary adjustments can help reduce symptoms, most patients also require medications-such as aminosalicylates, steroids, or biologics-to control inflammation.

How is indeterminate colitis diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves a colonoscopy with biopsy, blood tests, and sometimes imaging studies to rule out other forms of IBD.

Will I need surgery for indeterminate colitis?

Surgery is reserved for cases where medications and lifestyle changes fail to control severe or persistent symptoms. We refer you to top surgeons in Houston if needed.

Are there support groups for indeterminate colitis?

Yes. We can connect you with local and online support groups in Houston to help you manage your condition and share experiences with others.

What triggers flare-ups of indeterminate colitis?

Common triggers include stress, infections, certain foods, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Managing these can help reduce the frequency of flares.

How often should I see my doctor for indeterminate colitis?

During active symptoms, visits are typically every 3 to 6 months. Once your condition is stable, your doctor may recommend less frequent follow-ups.

Where can I receive care for indeterminate colitis in Houston?

GastroDoxs in Houston specializes in all forms of IBD, including indeterminate colitis, offering personalized treatment plans, nutritional guidance, and ongoing support.

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