Proctitis is inflammation of the rectal lining-the last portion of your large intestine. It may occur on its own or as part of a broader condition such as ulcerative colitis. Early detection and treatment can help prevent complications and improve comfort.
Proctitis can cause a variety of symptoms, including:
Several factors can lead to proctitis:
At GastroDoxs in Cypress, our specialists focus on precise diagnosis and tailored treatment plans for proctitis-whether you're dealing with infection-related inflammation, radiation injury, or autoimmune triggers. We combine advanced therapies (medicated enemas, anti-inflammatory medications, oxygen treatments) with compassionate, patient-centered support to help you regain comfort and confidence. Ready to take the next step? Call us today at 832-632-4070 or book an appointment online and start your journey to relief.
We've successfully treated more than 286 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.
At home, you can take warm sitz baths to soothe pain, increase your intake of fiber-rich foods and water to soften stools, and use gentle stool softeners as recommended. Avoiding spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol may also help reduce irritation.
The duration of proctitis varies. Mild cases can improve within a few days of home care, while more severe or chronic forms may require weeks or ongoing treatment. Your physician will assess the cause and guide you on the expected timeline.
The ICD-10 code for unspecified proctitis is K62.7. This code applies when the exact cause of the rectal inflammation has not been determined.
Not always. Proctitis can result from infections, radiation, or injury. However, it can be a manifestation of autoimmune diseases such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease in some patients.
Radiation proctitis can be serious if left untreated. Chronic inflammation may lead to bleeding, strictures, or long-term tissue damage. Early evaluation and treatment are important to prevent complications.
Food protein-induced proctitis is an allergic reaction in the rectum, often seen in infants when certain proteins in formula or breast milk trigger inflammation, leading to blood or mucus in the stool.
Treatment for radiation proctitis may include sucralfate enemas to promote healing, hyperbaric oxygen therapy to improve tissue oxygenation, and anti-inflammatory medications to reduce symptoms.
Proctitis can be caused by infections (bacterial or sexually transmitted), autoimmune diseases (ulcerative colitis, Crohn's), radiation therapy to the pelvis, certain medications (NSAIDs, antibiotics), food allergies, and rectal injury.
No. Ulcerative proctitis specifically affects only the rectum, whereas ulcerative colitis involves inflammation of a larger portion of the colon beyond the rectal area.
You should consult a physician if you experience persistent rectal bleeding, severe pain, frequent diarrhea, or any symptoms that do not improve with initial home care. Early evaluation helps determine the cause and appropriate treatment.
