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Colitis

At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Scott delivers expert colitis care, guiding you through diagnosis, treatments and personalized lifestyle plans. With 15-plus years' experience, he offers tailored medication, diet strategies, and advanced procedures to manage inflammation and improve quality of life.

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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
Scott Liu

About the Expert

Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • Family history of colitis or other bowel disorders
  • An overactive immune response attacking the colon lining
  • Stress, certain foods, or gut infections
  • Previous stomach illnesses or gastrointestinal infections
  • Onset between ages 15 and 30

Signs and Symptoms

  • Frequent diarrhea, sometimes containing blood
  • Abdominal cramping and pain
  • Chronic fatigue or low energy levels
  • Unintended weight loss
  • Fever during active flare-ups

How Dr. Scott Diagnoses Colitis?

Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:

Medical History and Exam

He reviews your digestive symptoms-especially epigastric pain-along with family history and potential triggers like stress or infections.

Blood Tests

We measure inflammation markers (CRP, ESR), check for anemia, and rule out other causes.

Stool Tests

These help exclude infectious causes and detect occult blood or inflammatory cells.

Colonoscopy

  • Direct visualization of the colon lining to identify ulcers, inflammation, or bleeding.
  • Tissue biopsies confirm ulcerative or microscopic colitis and gauge severity.

Imaging Studies

  • CT or MRI enterography evaluates the extent of inflammation and rules out complications.
  • Abdominal ultrasound assesses bowel wall thickness and checks for fluid collections.

Advanced Testing (if needed)

In rare cases, specialized endoscopic procedures or surgical consultation may be recommended to clarify the diagnosis.

Dr. Scott
Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for colitis.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications

  • 7-day personalized meal plans to help manage symptoms
  • Eating smaller, more frequent meals
  • Choosing low-fiber foods during flare-ups
  • Staying hydrated with water and electrolyte drinks
  • Stress-reduction techniques such as deep breathing

2. Medications

  • 5-ASA drugs to reduce intestinal inflammation
  • Steroids for rapid control of flare-ups
  • Immune-suppressing agents for long-term management
  • Biologic therapies for moderate to severe cases

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures

  • Endoscopic dilation to open narrowed segments of the colon
  • Removal of precancerous polyps during colonoscopy
  • Referral for surgery when medical therapy is insufficient
Scott Liu

About the Expert

Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is ulcerative colitis different from Crohn's disease?

Ulcerative colitis affects only the inner lining of the colon. Crohn's disease can involve any part of the digestive tract and penetrates deeper into the bowel wall.

What is the ICD-10 code for ulcerative colitis?

The ICD-10 code for ulcerative colitis is K51.x. This code helps with diagnosis, treatment planning, and insurance documentation.

Can colitis be managed with diet alone?

Dietary changes can ease symptoms, but most patients also need medication for optimal control. A combined approach works best.

Does Dr. Scott provide a meal plan?

Yes. During your visit, Dr. Scott will give you a customized 7-day meal plan to help reduce flare-ups and manage symptoms.

Is colitis curable?

Colitis is chronic and not curable, but with the right treatment many patients achieve long periods of remission and improved quality of life.

How often do I need a colonoscopy?

Typically every 1-3 years, depending on disease severity and duration. Dr. Scott will recommend a personalized surveillance schedule.

Are there local support groups?

Yes. Dr. Scott partners with the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation to connect you with Houston-area support groups and resources.

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