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Colonic Pseudoobstruction

Colonic pseudoobstruction, also known as Ogilvie's syndrome, occurs when the colon stretches and stops moving stool despite no physical blockage. In Houston, Dr. Rishi Chadha at GastroDoxs delivers advanced diagnostics and swift, personalized treatments to quickly restore healthy bowel function.

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Harris County Medical Society
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American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
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Houston Methodist leading Medicine
HCA Houston Healthcare
Rishi Chadha

About the Expert

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.

What Is Colonic Pseudoobstruction?

Colonic pseudoobstruction, or Ogilvie's syndrome, happens when the large intestine stops working properly. It stretches out but isn't blocked by anything. This makes it hard to move stool through the colon. You may wonder how this is different from ileus. Ileus slows down the whole bowel. In pseudoobstruction, only the colon is affected.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

Several things can lead to this condition:

  • Surgery or injury
  • Serious illness like infection or heart problems
  • Medicines that slow digestion
  • Low potassium or magnesium levels
  • Nerve or brain conditions (like Parkinson's or spinal cord injury)
  • Being over 60 years old

Dr. Chadha uses these clues to quickly find and treat the cause.

Signs and Symptoms

Watch for these common symptoms:

  • Belly swelling or bloating
  • Pain or cramps in the stomach
  • Constipation or no gas
  • Feeling sick or throwing up
  • Fast heartbeat or a mild fever

If you notice these signs in Houston, get help right away.

How Dr. Rishi Diagnoses Colonic Pseudoobstruction?

How Dr. Rishi Chadha Diagnoses This Condition

Here's how Dr. Chadha finds out if you have colonic pseudoobstruction:

Medical History and Exam

He'll ask about your symptoms, health history, and medicines.

Imaging Tests

An X-ray or CT scan shows how your colon looks and if gas is trapped

Blood Tests

These look for infection, dehydration, or low electrolytes.

Rule Out Blockage

A colonoscopy or barium enema checks if anything is physically blocking the colon. We follow expert guidelines, including the ICD-10 code K59.8, for accurate care.

Dr. Rishi Chadha
Treatment

Our Houston team offers a full range of care for colonic pseudoobstruction.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Changes

  • Eat smaller, low-fiber meals
  • Drink more water and stay hydrated
  • Engage in light movement, such as walking, to stimulate gut motility

2. Medications

  • IV fluids to correct dehydration and electrolyte imbalances
  • Medications like neostigmine to help the colon regain normal movement
  • Adjust or discontinue medicines that slow gastrointestinal transit

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures

  • Colonoscopy decompression to safely release trapped gas and stool
  • Percutaneous Endoscopic Colostomy (PEC) for recurrent or refractory cases
  • Continuous monitoring and follow-up care in our Houston clinic
Rishi Chadha

About the Author

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is colonic pseudo-obstruction different from ileus

Ileus affects the entire bowel, slowing it down. Colonic pseudo-obstruction (Ogilvie's syndrome) involves only the large intestine without a physical blockage.

When should I get treatment

As soon as you experience symptoms abdominal distension, pain, constipation, or vomiting to avoid serious complications.

Whats the ICD-10 code

The ICD-10 code for colonic pseudo-obstruction is K59.8.

Can I fix it with diet alone

Dietary changes (small, low-fiber meals and hydration) may help mild cases, but most patients need medical evaluation and treatment.

Any home remedies

Gentle walking, staying well hydrated, and avoiding gas-producing foods can support gut motility but always consult your doctor if symptoms persist.

Is a CT scan painful

No. A CT scan is quick, noninvasive, and usually free of discomfort.

How fast will I feel better after decompression

Many patients feel relief within a few hours and can often go home the same or next day.

Can this happen again

Yes. Recurrences are possible. We offer long-term management plans and procedures like PEC for recurring cases.

Do you treat other gut issues

Yes. Dr. Chadha also manages gastroparesis, chronic constipation, intestinal motility disorders, and more.

Will my insurance cover this

Most insurance plans cover diagnosis and treatment. Our staff will assist you with pre-authorization and billing questions.

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