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Lymphocytic Colitis

Dr. Bharat Pothuri at GastroDoxs in Houston specializes in diagnosing and treating lymphocytic colitis, a form of microscopic inflammation causing chronic watery diarrhea. He uses advanced diagnostics, personalized diet and medication plans, and compassionate care to restore your digestive health.

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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

About the Expert

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a board-certified gastroenterologist and the founder of GastroDoxs. 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.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • Immune system dysfunction attacking the colon lining
  • Use of certain medications (NSAIDs, antidepressants, proton-pump inhibitors)
  • History of gastrointestinal infections
  • Active smoking or tobacco use
  • Age in the 40s or 50s
  • Female gender

Signs and Symptoms

  • Frequent, watery diarrhea-often multiple times per day
  • Abdominal pain or cramping
  • Sudden urgency to have a bowel movement
  • Mild unintended weight loss during flare-ups
  • Fatigue or general malaise
  • Occasional fecal incontinence in severe cases
  • Symptoms that wax and wane over time

Expert Treatment for Lymphocytic Colitis by Dr. Bharat Pothuri

Step 1: Health History and Physical Exam

Dr. Pothuri begins by asking about your health history. He also performs a physical examination.

Step 2: Lab Tests

To rule out other causes, he may order blood tests and stool tests.

Step 3: Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy is done to check your colon for inflammation or other issues.

Step 4: Biopsy

A biopsy may be taken during the colonoscopy to look for extra lymphocytes, a sign of inflammation.

Step 5: Advanced Tools

He uses advanced scopes and imaging tools to make an accurate diagnosis in our Houston clinic.

Dr. Bharat Pothuri
Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for lymphocytic colitis.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications

  • Low-fat, low-fiber meal plans during flare-ups
  • Avoidance of spicy foods, caffeine, and artificial sweeteners
  • Hydration guidelines: drink plenty of water daily
  • Stress-management techniques: breathing exercises, stretching, meditation

2. Medications

  • Budesonide to reduce inflammation in the colon
  • Antidiarrheal agents to slow bowel movements
  • Bile acid binders for persistent or recurrent diarrhea

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures

  • Advanced endoscopic therapies for severe, treatment-resistant cases
  • Rare surgical interventions only when other treatments fail
  • Access to clinical trials for emerging microscopic colitis therapies
306

Patients Treated

Dr. Pothuri has treated more than 306 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 lymphocytic colitis?

Lymphocytic colitis is a form of microscopic inflammation in the colon lining that causes frequent, watery diarrhea. It looks normal on colonoscopy but is confirmed by finding excess lymphocytes in a biopsy.

Is it serious?

It is not life-threatening, but untreated symptoms-such as chronic diarrhea and cramps-can significantly affect quality of life.

How is it different from ulcerative colitis?

Ulcerative colitis causes visible ulcers and damage on endoscopy. Lymphocytic colitis appears normal during the scope and shows inflammation only under the microscope.

Will I need surgery?

No. Most patients improve with dietary adjustments and medications like budesonide or antidiarrheals. Surgery is very rare and reserved for severe, refractory cases.

How long until I feel better?

Many patients notice relief within a few weeks of starting treatment. Complete remission may take one to two months, depending on response.

What is the ICD-10 code?

The official code for lymphocytic colitis is K52.8: -Other and unspecified noninfective gastroenteritis and colitis.-

Can I keep working during a flare-up?

Yes. With the right treatment plan, most people can manage symptoms and continue their daily activities, including work.

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