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Radiation Proctitis
After pelvic cancer radiation, patients develop radiation proctitis, marked by rectal pain, bleeding, and urgency. At Houston's GastroDoxs, Dr. Nghia Nguyen combines dietary guidance, medications, and minimally invasive therapies to diagnose and treat this condition, restoring comfort and bowel 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.
What Is Radiation Proctitis?
Radiation proctitis is inflammation and swelling of the rectum that occurs during or after radiation therapy aimed at cancers in the pelvic region. It can lead to pain, bleeding, and changes in bowel habits.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Radiation therapy for prostate, cervical, bladder, or rectal cancer
High cumulative radiation dose
Preexisting inflammatory bowel disease
Smoking or poor blood flow to rectal tissues
Signs and Symptoms
Rectal bleeding
Urgent or frequent bowel movements
Loose stools or diarrhea
Rectal pain or cramping
Mucus discharge in stool
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses This Condition?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He reviews your radiation therapy details (site, dose, timing), symptoms such as bleeding or urgency, prior bowel conditions, and performs a focused abdominal and rectal exam.
Endoscopic Evaluation
Flexible sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy is performed to inspect the rectal lining for inflammation, telangiectasias, ulcerations, and friability.
Biopsy
Small tissue samples may be obtained during endoscopy to confirm radiation‐induced mucosal changes and exclude recurrent malignancy or infection.
Complementary Tests
Blood work to check for anemia (from chronic bleeding) and inflammatory markers.
Pelvic MRI or CT scan if deeper tissue injury or other pelvic pathology is suspected.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for radiation proctitis.
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
When does radiation proctitis start?
It may begin during radiation therapy or appear within a year after treatment.
What is the ICD-10 code for radiation proctitis?
The ICD-10 code is K62.7, which Dr. Nguyen uses for diagnosis and treatment planning.
Can radiation proctitis be cured?
Many patients improve with dietary changes, medications, or minimally invasive procedures.
Can I manage radiation proctitis at home?
Mild cases may be managed with diet and lifestyle adjustments, but you should consult a physician if symptoms persist or worsen.
When should I seek medical help?
Consult a specialist if you experience rectal bleeding, pain, or changes in bowel habits after pelvic radiation.
Is treatment available in Houston?
Yes, Dr. Nghia Nguyen at GastroDoxs offers expert care for radiation proctitis patients from all over Houston.
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