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Lymphocytic Colitis
At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Nghia Nguyen specializes in diagnosing and treating lymphocytic colitis, a microscopic inflammation of the colon causing chronic watery diarrhea. Combining personalized care with advanced diagnostics and tailored therapies, he helps patients regain control of health.
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.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Age over 50
Female sex
Use of NSAIDs, antidepressants, or acid-blocking medications
Associated thyroid disorders or joint conditions
Smoking history
Family history of microscopic colitis
Signs and Symptoms
Persistent, watery diarrhea
Abdominal cramps or discomfort
Urgent need for bowel movements
Nocturnal trips to the bathroom
Fatigue or general malaise
Unintentional weight loss in more severe cases
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses Lymphocytic Colitis?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He reviews your bowel habits, onset and character of epigastric pain, medication use (NSAIDs, antidepressants, acid blockers), past GI issues, family history, and other risk factors.
Stool Analysis
He orders stool studies to rule out infections, check for inflammatory markers, and exclude other causes of diarrhea.
Colonoscopy with Biopsy
Direct visualization of the colon lining to assess for subtle changes.
Targeted biopsies to identify increased intraepithelial lymphocytes and confirm lymphocytic colitis under the microscope.
Upper GI Evaluation
Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) to investigate epigastric pain, rule out gastritis, ulcers, or reflux-related injury.
H. pylori testing and rapid urease test if clinically indicated.
Laboratory Tests
Comprehensive blood work to assess for anemia, electrolyte imbalances, thyroid function, and nutritional deficiencies.
ICD-10 Coding and Follow-Up
He applies K52.89 for lymphocytic colitis and the appropriate code for epigastric pain (e.g., R10.13) to ensure precise documentation and insurance coverage, and schedules follow-up to monitor response.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for lymphocytic colitis.
1. Diet and Lifestyle Modifications
Increase fluid intake to prevent dehydration
Follow a low-residue diet to ease digestion
Avoid trigger foods such as caffeine and artificial sweeteners
Keep a food journal to track symptoms and identify triggers
2. Medications
Loperamide to reduce diarrhea and improve stool consistency
Budesonide, a targeted steroid for colonic inflammation
Bile acid binders if bile salt malabsorption is contributing to diarrhea
Vitamin and mineral supplements to correct nutritional deficiencies
3. Additional Interventions (If Needed)
Advanced medical therapies for persistent or severe symptoms
Surgical intervention is rarely required and considered only in exceptional cases
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 lymphocytic colitis?
It is long-term inflammation of the colon that can only be seen under a microscope. The main symptom is ongoing, watery diarrhea.
Is it serious?
It is usually not life-threatening. With the right care, symptoms often improve quickly.
Is it an autoimmune disease?
It is not officially classified as an autoimmune disease, but it is linked to immune conditions and often coexists with thyroid or joint problems.
How long until I feel better?
Most people notice improvement within 4 to 8 weeks of starting treatment with diet changes and medications.
Will diet help?
Yes. A careful diet—such as a low-residue plan—and avoiding triggers like caffeine and artificial sweeteners can reduce symptoms, though medicine may still be needed.
Will I need a colonoscopy?
Yes. A colonoscopy with a biopsy is the only way to confirm the diagnosis by examining tissue under a microscope.
Is it permanent?
The condition may recur, but many people manage it well long term with lifestyle modifications and medication.
