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Radiation Proctitis

Radiation proctitis is inflammation of the rectum from pelvic radiation, causing pain, bleeding, and urgency. At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Bharat Pothuri provides tailored care-from diet and medications to advanced endoscopic therapies-to alleviate symptoms and improve patients' quality of life.

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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.

What Is Radiation Proctitis?

Radiation proctitis is inflammation and swelling of the rectal lining that develops after radiation treatment to cancers in the pelvic area (prostate, cervical, bladder). It can cause pain, bleeding, and frequent or urgent bowel movements. The ICD-10 code for radiation proctitis is K62.7.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • Radiation therapy to the pelvis (high total dose or large treatment field)
  • Concurrent chemotherapy that increases tissue sensitivity
  • Older age or preexisting bowel conditions
  • Smoking or poor overall health status
  • Previous abdominal or pelvic surgery

Signs and Symptoms

  • Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
  • Cramping, pain, or a burning sensation in the lower abdomen
  • Frequent urges to have a bowel movement (urgency)
  • Feeling of incomplete evacuation (tenesmus)
  • Diarrhea, loose stools, or mucus discharge
  • Stool leakage or incontinence

Expert Treatment for Radiation Proctitis by Dr. Bharat Pothuri

Dr. Pothuri uses a step-by-step approach:

Medical History and Physical Exam

He reviews your cancer type, radiation therapy details (dose, field), onset of symptoms and bowel habits.

Laboratory Tests

Complete blood count to check for anemia and inflammatory markers to rule out infection.

Endoscopic Evaluation

  • Anoscopy or flexible sigmoidoscopy for direct visualization of rectal mucosa and identification of inflammation, bleeding or telangiectasias.
  • Targeted biopsy when needed to exclude recurrent malignancy or other causes of proctitis.

Imaging Studies

Pelvic CT or MRI may be ordered to assess the extent of tissue injury, strictures or fistulas.

Bharat Pothuri
Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for radiation proctitis.

1. Diet and Lifestyle Modifications

  • High-fiber diet to soften stools and reduce rectal strain
  • Increased hydration to support digestion and healing
  • Avoidance of spicy or greasy foods that may worsen symptoms
  • Frequent, smaller meals to ease digestive workload

2. Medications

  • Topical anti-inflammatory enemas or suppositories to calm rectal inflammation
  • Oral anti-inflammatories to reduce swelling and pain
  • Stool softeners and antidiarrheal agents to regulate bowel habits

3. Minimally Invasive Procedures

  • Argon plasma coagulation to seal bleeding sites
  • Endoscopic therapies to treat ulcerations and strictures
  • Hyperbaric oxygen therapy to promote tissue healing in refractory cases
1.5K

Patients Treated

Dr. Pothuri has 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

When do symptoms of radiation proctitis begin?

Symptoms can start during radiation therapy or may not appear until weeks, months, or even years afterward.

Can radiation proctitis be treated without surgery?

Yes. Most patients respond well to dietary modifications, medications, topical therapies, and minimally invasive procedures.

Will the symptoms of radiation proctitis last forever?

No. With appropriate care and follow-up, many patients experience significant improvement or complete resolution.

What treatment options are available?

Treatment may include a high-fiber diet, anti-inflammatory drugs, stool softeners, argon plasma coagulation, endoscopic therapies, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy.

Are the treatments safe?

Yes. Dr. Pothuri uses evidence-based approaches and will discuss the benefits and risks of each therapy before proceeding.

Does insurance cover treatment for radiation proctitis?

Most insurance plans cover diagnostic tests and treatments. Our staff at GastroDoxs can help verify your benefits and estimate out-of-pocket costs.

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