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Proctitis

Proctitis, inflammation of the rectum lining, causes discomfort, bleeding, urgency. At GastroDoxs in Houston, board-certified gastroenterologist Dr. Rishi Chadha provides personalized, advanced diagnostic and treatment options-from dietary guidance and medications to minimally invasive therapies-to help you achieve relief and well-being.

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Texas Medical Board
Harris County Medical Society
American College of Gastroenterology
American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
Memorial hermann
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 Proctitis?

Proctitis is swelling of the rectum's inner lining. It may cause pain, bleeding, or a strong urge to pass stool. If not treated, it can affect daily life and comfort.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • Infections - Bacteria (like Shigella), viruses, or STDs
  • Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) - Ulcerative colitis or Crohn's
  • Radiation therapy - For cancers near the rectum
  • Low blood flow (ischemic proctitis)
  • Autoimmune conditions

Signs and Symptoms

  • Pain or pressure in the rectum
  • Sudden or frequent urges to pass stool
  • Blood or mucus in the stool
  • Feeling like you didn-t finish a bowel movement
  • Diarrhea or constipation

How Dr. Rishi Chadha Diagnoses Proctitis

Dr. Chadha uses a clear, step-by-step approach:

Medical History

He asks about your symptoms, bowel habits, lifestyle triggers and any past treatments.

Physical Exam

A gentle rectal exam checks for tenderness, swelling or other signs of inflammation.

Endoscopic Evaluation

  • Anoscopy - A small scope to closely inspect the rectum's inner lining.
  • Flexible sigmoidoscopy - A longer scope if broader visualization is needed.

Stool Tests

Laboratory analysis of your stool to detect bacterial, viral or parasitic infections.

Imaging (if needed)

Ultrasound or CT scans to rule out deeper complications beyond the rectum.

Dr. Rishi Chadha
Treatment

Treatment Options at GastroDoxs

1. Lifestyle and Diet Changes

  • Avoid spicy, fatty foods, and excessive caffeine
  • If you have ulcerative proctitis, skip dairy (if intolerant), raw vegetables, nuts, and seeds
  • Follow a low-fiber (low-residue), high-protein diet and stay well hydrated
  • Include probiotics such as yogurt with live cultures

2. Medications

  • Aminosalicylates to reduce inflammation
  • Topical or systemic steroids for acute flare-ups
  • Immune-suppressing drugs for long-term control
  • Antibiotics if an infection is identified

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Treatments

  • Endoscopic therapy to manage bleeding or strictures
  • Transanal irrigation for severe constipation or incontinence
  • Biologic injections for patients not responding to conventional medications
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

What is the ICD-10 code for proctitis?

K62.3 is the medical code used for proctitis.

What's the difference: ulcerative proctitis vs ulcerative colitis?

Ulcerative proctitis affects only the rectum, while ulcerative colitis extends into the colon.

How long does it take to get better?

With proper care, most patients see improvement in 4-6 weeks.

Can food changes cure it?

Dietary changes help manage symptoms, but most cases also require medication.

What foods should I avoid?

Avoid spicy foods, alcohol, caffeine, raw vegetables, nuts, and seeds.

Could I have an infection?

Fever, painful bowel movements, and blood in the stool may indicate an infection.

Any home remedies?

Warm sitz baths and a low-fiber diet can relieve mild symptoms.

When should I see a doctor?

See a doctor if you notice rectal bleeding, persistent pain, or significant changes in bowel habits.

Can proctitis lead to cancer?

Chronic inflammation may increase cancer risk over time, so regular checkups are important.

How do others say they cured it?

Many patients report success with Dr. Chadha's combined plan of diet, medication, and gentle therapies.

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