1.9K Reviews | 4.7 Star Rating | 20+ years of experience | 72k+ Patients Treated
ASLC
Acute self-limited colitis (ASLC) is a sudden, short-lived inflammation of the large intestine, causing abdominal pain, diarrhea, and sometimes blood or mucus in the stool. At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Nghia Nguyen combines advanced diagnostics with personalized care for rapid relief.
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
What Is ASLC?
Acute self-limited colitis (ASLC) is a sudden, short-term inflammation of the large intestine. Symptoms typically appear quickly and resolve on their own within days to weeks, without recurring once healed.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Infections - Bacteria, viruses, or parasites from contaminated food or water
Medications - Antibiotics or NSAIDs that can irritate the colon lining
Recent travel - Exposure to unfamiliar germs or foods
Weakened immune system - From steroids, chemotherapy, or chronic illnesses
ICD-10 code for ASLC: K52.9
Signs and Symptoms
Sudden belly pain or cramps
Diarrhea or frequent loose stools
Blood or mucus in the stool
Mild fever or chills
Nausea or loss of appetite
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses This Condition?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Symptom Review
He reviews your onset of epigastric pain or abdominal cramps, bowel habits, presence of blood or mucus in stool, recent travel, food exposures, and current medications.
Stool Tests
Stool cultures and PCR panels detect bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections.
Blood Tests
Complete blood count and inflammatory markers (CRP, ESR) help assess the severity of inflammation and rule out anemia or systemic infection.
Endoscopic Evaluation
Flexible sigmoidoscopy to directly visualize the left colon for acute inflammation.
Colonoscopy if a full assessment is needed or to obtain biopsies.
Imaging (If Needed)
Occasionally an abdominal CT scan is ordered to exclude complications or alternate diagnoses if symptoms persist.
Treatment
Our Team offers comprehensive treatment options for Acute Self-Limited Colitis (ASLC).
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Stay hydrated with water, broth, and oral rehydration solutions
Follow a bland diet (BRAT: bananas, rice, applesauce, toast)
Slowly reintroduce soft, low-fiber foods as symptoms improve
Get plenty of rest to support the healing process
2. Medications
Short-term antidiarrheal agents to relieve symptoms
Acetaminophen for pain relief; avoid NSAIDs
Antibiotics or antivirals if stool tests confirm an infection
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Endoscopy to locate and manage bleeding if present
Imaging studies to rule out other conditions when symptoms persist
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ICD-10 code for ASLC?
It's K52.9, the code for acute, unspecified colitis.
How long do ASLC symptoms usually last?
Most people start to feel better within 5-14 days with proper rest and care.
How can I avoid ASLC when traveling?
Stick to bottled or boiled water, avoid risky street foods, and wash your hands often.
When should I see a doctor for colitis symptoms?
Contact us if you have severe abdominal pain, high fever, or blood in your stool.
Will I need a colonoscopy for ASLC?
Not always. Dr. Nguyen recommends it only if non-invasive tests don't provide clear answers.
Is ASLC contagious?
It can be if caused by bacteria or viruses. Good hygiene helps prevent spreading germs.
Do I need follow-up visits after treatment?
Yes. We'll schedule follow-ups at our Houston office near downtown to ensure full recovery.
