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

Crohn's Colitis

Crohn's colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease causing inflammation throughout the colon wall, leading to pain and diarrhea. In Houston, Dr. Scott at GastroDoxs offers diagnosis and personalized treatment plans-including diet guidance, medications, and procedures-to improve quality of life.

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
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

  • A family history of IBD
  • Immune system dysfunction
  • Changes in gut bacteria
  • Environmental triggers such as stress or diet
  • Smoking, which can worsen symptoms

Signs and Symptoms

  • Abdominal pain or cramping after eating
  • Ongoing diarrhea, sometimes with blood
  • A sudden, urgent need to use the bathroom
  • Unexplained weight loss and fatigue
  • Fever during disease flares
  • Joint pain or skin problems in some cases

How Dr. Scott Diagnoses This Condition?

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

Medical History and Exam

He reviews your epigastric pain patterns, prior gallbladder or liver issues, diet and lifestyle, and risk factors like high blood cholesterol or rapid weight gain.

Blood Tests

We check liver function tests (AST, ALT, ALP), bilirubin levels, and pancreatic enzymes to rule out other causes of upper abdominal discomfort.

Imaging Studies

  • Abdominal ultrasound to detect cholesterol deposits, wall thickening, and gallbladder polyps.
  • HIDA scan to measure gallbladder ejection fraction and assess how well the gallbladder empties.

Advanced Testing (if needed)

In select cases, endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) or MRCP (magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography) can provide detailed views of the gallbladder and bile ducts.

Dr. Scott
Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for Crohn's colitis.

1. Diet and Lifestyle Changes

  • Eating smaller, more frequent meals tailored to reduce symptoms
  • Identifying and avoiding trigger foods with a personalized nutrition plan
  • Maintaining hydration by drinking plenty of water daily
  • Incorporating stress-reduction techniques such as gentle exercise or mindfulness
  • Working with a dietitian for ongoing dietary support and adjustments

2. Medications

  • 5-ASA agents to control mild inflammation
  • Short-term corticosteroids for rapid relief during flares
  • Immunomodulators to help regulate an overactive immune response
  • Biologic therapies for moderate to severe disease and long-term maintenance
  • Regular monitoring and dose adjustments based on treatment response

3. Minimally Invasive Procedures and Surgery

  • Endoscopic dilation to open narrowed segments of the colon
  • Laparoscopic resection to remove severely damaged tissue when necessary
  • Strictureplasty to widen strictures without removing bowel sections
  • Advanced imaging and endoscopic guidance for precise, targeted interventions
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

What's the difference between Crohn's colitis and ulcerative colitis?

Crohn's colitis can involve any layer of the colon and occur in patches, while ulcerative colitis affects only the surface lining in a continuous pattern.

What is the ICD-10 code for Crohn's colitis?

The ICD-10 code for Crohn's colitis is K50. This code is used for medical records and insurance billing.

Can diet and lifestyle changes help prevent flares?

Yes. Adopting smaller, more frequent meals, avoiding personal trigger foods, staying hydrated, and reducing stress can help reduce flare frequency.

Which medications treat Crohn's colitis?

Treatment may include 5-ASA drugs for mild disease, steroids for short-term flare control, immunomodulators, and biologics for moderate to severe cases.

When is surgery necessary for Crohn's colitis?

Surgery or endoscopic procedures are considered only if medications and lifestyle measures fail or if complications like strictures occur.

How can I schedule an appointment with Dr. Scott?

Call our Houston office or book your visit online at GastroDoxs. We're conveniently located near Montrose, the Heights, and surrounding areas.

Related Blogs
Abdominal Pain

The Worst Ways to Manage Constipation (and What to Do Instead)

Read More
Abdominal Pain

3 Reasons You May Have Chronic Constipation

Read More
Abdominal Pain

Why You Shouldn't Ignore Constipation

Read More