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Diverticulitis Specialist - Dr. Scott Liu
Dr. Scott is a specialist providing personalized services to the GastroDuxs of Houston in the treatment of diverticulitis and guiding you in the diagnosis to cure and prevention. He will be able to help patients reduce the number of flare-ups and reestablish gut health through better imaging, non-obligatory minimal invasive procedures, nutritional recommendations, and constant encouragement.
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
Poor diet low in fiber – hard stools increase pressure in the colon.
Aging – the risk increases with age.
Obesity – excess weight contributes to inflammation.
Lack of exercise – slows down digestion and bowel movement.
Smoking – linked to more frequent and severe flare-ups.
Signs and Symptoms
Abdominal pain or cramps in the lower left section.
Fever or chills.
Nausea or vomiting.
Constipation or diarrhea.
Bloating or excessive gas.
Blood in stool (in more severe cases).
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses This Condition?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He looks at your symptom history-especially, History of the pain being in the epigastric and lower-left abdomen-as well as your bowel history and dietary precipitants, as well as your previous history of diverticulitis.
Blood Tests
To identify infection or inflammation, we identify the number of white blood cells (WBC) and C-reactive protein (CRP).
Imaging Studies
Abdominal and pelvic CT scan which will assist in the visualization of the inflamed or pierced diverticula and the presence of the abscess.
Alternative- Abdominal ultrasound, in instances where the patients cannot undergo CT just in order to determine presence of fluid collections or thickened colon walls.
Colonoscopy (After Acute Episode)
Once the inflammation is gone, a colonoscopy is done to verify the diagnosis and establish the healing rate and rule out the other colonic disorders.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for diverticulitis.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Gradually increase the quantities of fiber and include fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Stay hydrated — aim for at least eight glasses of water per day.
Exercise regularly to promote healthy digestion.
Avoid seeds or nuts if they trigger symptoms.
2. Medications
Antibiotic treatment as needed for infections.
Acetaminophen is preferred over NSAIDs for pain relief.
Fiber supplements are recommended when dietary fiber is insufficient.
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Image-guided drainage of abscesses.
Laparoscopic repair of damaged colon sections.
Robotic-assisted surgery for complex or recurrent cases.
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 is the ICD 10 code of diverticulitis?
The code that is the most common code performs K57.32 of diverticulitis of the sigmoid colon without perforation. Dr. Scott’s team will ensure that the code is correctly used.
Could it be that diverticulitis heals itself?
In some mild cases, treatment involves rest, dietary changes, and antibiotics. Dr. Scott should always be consulted to prevent complications.
What does stool look like when it occurs with diverticulitis?
You may notice loose stool, mucus, or blood. Any significant changes should be reported immediately to Dr. Scott’s office.
Which are some of the drugs I should avoid?
Avoid taking NSAIDs, including ibuprofen, as they increase the risk of bleeding. Dr. Scott will prescribe safer alternatives for pain relief.
Can I stop future flare-ups?
Yes. Prevention involves a high-fiber diet, regular physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight. Dr. Scott will create a personalized prevention plan for you.
When should I go to the ER?
Emergency care may be required if you experience severe abdominal pain, high fever, persistent vomiting, or bloody diarrhea.
Is surgery always needed?
No. Most patients recover with lifestyle adjustments, antibiotics, and close medical supervision. Surgery is reserved for severe or recurrent cases.
