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Colitis
At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Nghia Nguyen delivers expert diagnosis and personalized colitis treatment. From advanced colonoscopy imaging and tailored diet plans to cutting-edge biologics, our caring team helps patients manage symptoms, achieve remission, and boost well-being with holistic support.
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 Colitis?
Colitis is inflammation and irritation of the colon (large intestine). It can lead to belly pain, diarrhea, and sometimes bleeding. The most common form is ulcerative colitis (ICD-10 code K51), which affects only the inner lining of the colon and rectum.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Immune system dysfunction - the body attacks its own colon lining
Family history - higher risk if close relatives have colitis
Infections - bacterial, viral, or parasitic germs can trigger inflammation
Medications - NSAIDs and certain antibiotics may irritate the colon
Age and environment - most cases appear between ages 15-30; dehydration in hot climates (like Houston) can worsen flare-ups
Signs and Symptoms
Persistent diarrhea, often with blood or mucus
Abdominal cramps or sharp pains
Unexplained weight loss
Fatigue, weakness, or general malaise
Fever during severe flare-ups
Anemia (low iron) from chronic blood loss
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses Colitis?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Exam
He reviews your symptom onset, pain location (including epigastric area), bowel habits, diet, stressors and family history of GI disorders.
Blood Tests
Complete blood count to check for anemia, CRP/ESR for inflammation, plus liver and pancreatic enzymes to rule out other causes of upper abdominal pain.
Stool Tests
Checks for infectious pathogens (bacteria, parasites, C. difficile) and occult blood that may signal active colitis.
Endoscopy & Colonoscopy
Upper Endoscopy (EGD): Evaluates the esophagus, stomach and duodenum for ulcers, gastritis or other sources of epigastric pain.
Colonoscopy: Directly visualizes the colon lining to detect inflammation, ulceration or bleeding; biopsy samples confirm ulcerative colitis.
Imaging Studies
Abdominal CT or MRI: Provides detailed cross-sectional views to assess the extent of colonic inflammation and identify complications.
Ultrasound: Evaluates the gallbladder, liver and pancreas if upper-abdominal pain is prominent.
Advanced Testing (if needed)
Capsule endoscopy or motility studies may be ordered in atypical cases to examine the small bowel or assess gastric emptying.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for colitis.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Changes
Stay hydrated - Drink at least 8 glasses of water each day, especially in the Houston heat
Colitis meal plan - Eat soft, low-fiber foods like bananas, rice, and lean meats during flares
Manage stress - Try yoga, meditation, or light walking
Quit smoking - It may help reduce symptoms and flares
2. Medications
5-ASA drugs like mesalamine to reduce swelling in the colon
Steroids for short-term relief during flares
Immunomodulators to calm the immune system
Biologics like infliximab, adalimumab, and vedolizumab for more serious cases
3. Minimally Invasive and Advanced Procedures
Endoscopic dilation - Opens up narrow spots in the colon
Coil embolization - Stops bleeding caused by ulcers
Surgery - In serious cases, part of the colon may need to be removed. Dr. Nguyen works with top Houston surgeons when surgery is needed
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 causes ulcerative colitis?
Ulcerative colitis arises from a combination of genetic predisposition, immune system dysfunction, and environmental factors such as infections or medications.
How is ulcerative colitis different from Crohn's disease?
Ulcerative colitis affects only the inner lining of the colon and rectum, whereas Crohn's disease can involve any part of the gastrointestinal tract and penetrate deeper layers of the bowel wall.
What is the ICD-10 code for ulcerative colitis?
The ICD-10 code for ulcerative colitis is K51, which is used for medical billing and record-keeping.
Can I manage colitis with diet alone?
Dietary changes help control symptoms, especially during flares, but most patients also require medication to achieve and maintain remission.
Do colitis medications have side effects?
Yes. Common treatments like steroids, immunomodulators, and biologics can affect your immune system, bones, or liver. Dr. Nguyen monitors lab tests regularly to catch issues early.
Will I need surgery for ulcerative colitis?
Most patients avoid surgery through medical therapy. However, surgery may be necessary if medications fail, complications arise, or severe bleeding occurs.
How can I get the 7-day colitis meal plan?
Contact Dr. Nguyen's team at GastroDoxs to request our Houston-friendly 7-day colitis meal plan, designed to minimize flare-triggering foods and support gut healing.
