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Colitis

At GastroDoxs in Cypress, our expert team specializes in comprehensive colitis care, offering personalized treatment plans, advanced diagnostics, and ongoing support, ensuring local patients receive compassionate, cutting-edge relief for inflammatory bowel conditions right here in your community every single day.

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Bharat Pothuri
Symptoms

What Is Colitis?

Colitis is inflammation or swelling of the large intestine (colon). It can be short-lived (acute) or long-term (chronic) and includes types such as ulcerative colitis, Crohn's colitis, infectious colitis (for example, C. difficile), ischemic colitis, and microscopic colitis.

Common Symptoms

Symptoms can vary but often include:

  • Belly cramps or pain
  • Urgent or frequent diarrhea
  • Blood or mucus in the stool
  • Fatigue or weakness
  • Unintended weight loss
  • Fever during flares

Causes

Colitis can result from several factors:

  • Autoimmune disorders (such as ulcerative colitis)
  • Infections (including C. difficile)
  • Poor blood flow to the colon (ischemic colitis)
  • Allergic or irritant reactions (microscopic colitis)
  • Side effects of certain medications
Treatment

Treatment Options for Colitis in Cypress

Treatment includes medications, dietary adjustments, and supportive care:

  • Anti-inflammatory drugs: Aminosalicylates (e.g., mesalamine) or corticosteroids to reduce colon inflammation.
  • Biologic therapies: Agents such as infliximab or adalimumab for moderate to severe ulcerative colitis.
  • Antibiotics: Vancomycin or fidaxomicin to treat C. difficile colitis (ICD-10 code A04.7).
  • Pain management: Acetaminophen or other non-NSAID options to relieve cramps without triggering flares.
  • Hydration support: Oral rehydration solutions or IV fluids to correct dehydration (signaled by dark urine or dry mouth).
  • Diet plan for flare-ups: Low-residue meals-avoid spicy foods, greasy dishes, raw vegetables, caffeine, and dairy during active symptoms.
  • Soft-food plan for C. diff colitis: Clear broths, cooked cereals, bananas, and plain toast to ease digestion and restore gut balance.
  • Probiotics & supplements: Lactobacillus or Bifidobacterium strains, vitamin E, and omega-3s to support healthy intestinal flora.
  • Monitoring & follow-up: Regular blood tests (CRP, ESR) and colonoscopy as needed to track disease activity and remission.
  • Stress reduction: Relaxation techniques-yoga, meditation, or counseling-to help manage symptom severity.

Why Choose GastroDoxs?

With a focus on patient-centered care and comprehensive digestive health solutions, GastroDoxs provides expert diagnostics and effective treatment for colitis and related conditions. Our approach is rooted in compassionate, personalized care to help you achieve long-term relief and improved quality of life. Don't wait-call GastroDoxs in Cypress today to book your appointment and start your journey to simple, lasting relief.

2.9K

Patients Treated

We've successfully treated more than 2.9K 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 ischemic colitis?

The ICD-10 code for ischemic colitis is K55.0, which denotes reduced blood flow to the colon leading to inflammation and injury of the bowel wall.

What is the ICD-10 code for C. difficile colitis?

The ICD-10 code for Clostridioides difficile colitis is A04.7, used to classify infection of the colon by the C. difficile bacterium.

What foods should I avoid with ulcerative colitis?

During an ulcerative colitis flare-up, you may want to avoid spicy foods, raw vegetables, caffeine, dairy products, and greasy or high-fiber meals, as these can exacerbate symptoms.

Can colitis go away?

While ulcerative colitis currently has no permanent cure, appropriate treatment can induce long periods of remission, during which symptoms are minimal or absent.

Is ulcerative colitis an autoimmune problem?

Yes. Ulcerative colitis is an autoimmune condition in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the colon, causing chronic inflammation.

Can painkillers make colitis worse?

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen can irritate the bowel and trigger or worsen colitis flares. Always consult your doctor before taking these medications.

Where can I see colitis stool photos?

You can request sample images during your appointment at GastroDoxs in Cypress or consult reputable medical resources online, such as the American Gastroenterological Association or Mayo Clinic websites.

What natural treatments may help colitis?

Some patients find relief with probiotics, omega-3 supplements, a low-residue diet, stress-reduction techniques like yoga or meditation, and certain herbal remedies-always under the guidance of your healthcare provider.

What diet is best for C. difficile colitis?

For C. difficile colitis, stick to a bland, low-fiber diet of soft, easy-to-digest foods (e.g., toast, bananas, plain rice), clear liquids, and plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.

When should I call a doctor about colitis symptoms?

You should seek medical attention if you experience severe or persistent abdominal pain, bloody stools, high fever, rapid weight loss, or dehydration due to nonstop diarrhea.

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