1.9K Reviews    |    4.7 Star Rating    |    20+ years of experience    |    72k+ Patients Treated

Radiation Proctitis

Radiation proctitis causes rectal inflammation following pelvic radiation treatments for cancers like prostate or cervical. Dr. Rishi Chadha at GastroDoxs in Houston offers expert diagnosis with minimally invasive therapies and lifestyle guidance to relieve pain, stop bleeding, and improve healing.

Call Us 832-632-4070 Schedule Now Click Here Text Us 832-632-4070 Learn More Click Here
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 Radiation Proctitis?

Radiation proctitis is inflammation and swelling of the rectum after radiation treatment to the pelvic area. It most often affects patients treated for prostate, cervical, or bladder cancer. Symptoms can appear weeks, months, or even years after therapy. ICD-10 code: K62.7.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • Pelvic radiation therapy
  • High radiation doses or large treatment fields
  • Preexisting inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
  • Diabetes or poor blood flow to the rectum
  • Smoking or a history of rectal surgery

Signs and Symptoms

  • Blood in the stool
  • Pain or burning sensation in the rectum
  • Urgent or frequent bowel movements
  • Mucus discharge from the rectum
  • Abdominal pain or cramps

How Dr. Rishi Chadha Diagnoses Radiation Proctitis?

Comprehensive History & Physical Exam

Dr. Chadha reviews your pelvic radiation details, cancer history, symptom timeline and risk factors.

Endoscopic Assessment

  • Flexible sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy to directly visualize the rectal lining.
  • Targeted biopsy of suspicious areas to confirm inflammation and rule out other conditions.

Imaging Studies

  • MRI or CT scan of the pelvis to exclude alternative causes of rectal pain or bleeding.

Laboratory Tests

Blood work to check for anemia, infection markers and overall inflammatory status.

Dr. Rishi Chadha
Treatment

Treatment Options at GastroDoxs

1. Lifestyle and Diet Changes

  • Eat more fiber and drink enough water
  • Avoid caffeine, spicy foods, and alcohol
  • Try pelvic-floor exercises or biofeedback
  • Quit smoking to improve blood flow and healing

2. Medications

  • Mesalamine suppositories to reduce swelling
  • Topical steroids to calm inflammation
  • Sucralfate enemas to protect rectal tissue
  • Antibiotics if an infection is present

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Treatments

  • Argon plasma coagulation to stop bleeding
  • Formalin application during endoscopy
  • Radiofrequency ablation for severe cases
  • Temporary colostomy (rarely, if other treatments fail)
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.

```html

Frequently Asked Questions

What is radiation proctitis?

It's swelling in the rectum after radiation therapy to the pelvic area.

When do symptoms start?

They can begin weeks, months, or even years after treatment.

What is the ICD-10 code?

The ICD-10 code is K62.7.

Can radiation proctitis be cured?

Yes. Most people feel better with the right treatment.

What are the treatment options?

Diet changes, medications, and minimally invasive procedures tailored to your needs.

What foods should I avoid?

Avoid spicy foods, alcohol, and caffeine. Drink plenty of water and eat a high-fiber diet.

Is endoscopy needed?

Yes. Sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy helps confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment.

Is radiation proctitis dangerous?

No. Most cases are mild and respond well to medical or endoscopic therapies.

How many treatments will I need?

Some patients improve after one session; others may need multiple visits depending on severity.

Where can I learn more?

Visit the National Cancer Institute website for additional information on radiation proctitis.

```
Related Blogs
Abdominal Pain

Hyperthyroidism and Diarrhea: Understanding the Causes and Treatment Options

Read More
Abdominal Pain

What's Causing Your Rectal Bleeding?

Read More
Abdominal Pain

The Importance of Screening for Prevention

Read More