Dr. Rishi Chadha, MD is a board‑certified gastroenterologist who specializes in preventive gastroenterology, colorectal cancer screening, and minimally invasive endoscopic procedures. He completed his fellowship at Sunrise Health GME in Las Vegas and previously trained in internal medicine at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Connecticut.
Backwash ileitis is inflammation of the terminal ileum that occurs in people with ulcerative colitis when colon contents flow backward and irritate the small intestine. It is generally milder than Crohn's disease but still requires proper management.
He reviews your ulcerative colitis history, symptom patterns (cramps, diarrhea, urgency), prior treatments and risk factors such as disease duration and prior colon complications.
We check inflammatory markers (CRP, ESR), complete blood count and rule out infections or other causes of ileal irritation.
Rarely, capsule endoscopy or specialized microbiome analysis may be used to refine the diagnosis or rule out overlapping conditions.
Dr. Rishi Chadha, MD is a board‑certified gastroenterologist who specializes in preventive gastroenterology, colorectal cancer screening, and minimally invasive endoscopic procedures. He completed his fellowship at Sunrise Health GME in Las Vegas and previously trained in internal medicine at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Connecticut.
It's inflammation of the terminal ileum caused by colon contents -backwashing- into that area in people with ulcerative colitis.
Backwash ileitis occurs in about 10-20% of patients with extensive (pancolitis) ulcerative colitis.
Backwash ileitis is limited to the distal ileum and is generally milder, whereas Crohn's can affect any GI segment, produce patchy lesions, and cause deep ulcers.
Yes. A low-residue, anti-inflammatory diet and small, frequent meals can reduce irritation and improve symptoms.
Treatment may include 5-ASA agents (e.g., mesalamine), short-term steroids, immunomodulators like azathioprine, or biologics such as infliximab or vedolizumab.
Surgery is rare and reserved for complications such as strictures or cases unresponsive to medical therapy.
Many patients see symptom relief within a few weeks, though long-term medication may be needed to maintain remission.
With proper treatment and lifestyle adjustments, most people lead normal, active lives.
Symptoms can include mild cramps and diarrhea; appropriate therapy usually controls discomfort effectively.
Most health plans cover diagnostic tests and treatments; our office staff can assist you with insurance verification.
