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.
Infectious colitis is swelling and irritation of the colon caused by germs. These germs can be bacteria, viruses, or parasites. You may hear it called infectious diarrhea or bacterial colitis. It often starts suddenly, with cramps and loose stools. The medical code for this condition is ICD-10: A04.0..
Dr. Chadha discusses your recent onset of cramps, diarrhea, travel history, food exposures, and any underlying conditions.
A focused abdominal exam checks for tenderness, distension, and signs of inflammation.
Stool samples are sent for bacterial cultures, viral panels, and parasite assays to identify the culprit.
Bloodwork evaluates hydration status, white blood cell count, and markers of systemic infection.
In severe or prolonged cases, a colonoscopy allows direct visualization of the colon and targeted biopsies.
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.
Infectious colitis is inflammation of the colon caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites. It often results from contaminated food or water.
Common signs include diarrhea, abdominal pain, cramping, fever, and sometimes blood or mucus in the stool.
Diagnosis may include a stool test, blood work, and sometimes a colonoscopy to check for inflammation or rule out other causes.
It is usually caused by pathogens such as E. coli, Salmonella, Shigella, Campylobacter, or viruses like norovirus.
Yes. It can spread through direct contact with infected stool, contaminated surfaces, or food and water.
Treatment depends on the cause. Mild cases may resolve on their own. Bacterial infections may need antibiotics, while viral colitis usually resolves with fluids and rest.
If symptoms include high fever, bloody diarrhea, severe pain, or dehydration, consult a doctor right away.
In some cases, infectious colitis can trigger long term inflammation or post infectious irritable bowel syndrome.
Most cases are treated at home, but hospitalization may be needed for severe dehydration or complications.
The ICD 10 code is A09, which covers infectious gastroenteritis and colitis of unspecified origin.
