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Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) - including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis - affects millions with chronic gut inflammation. At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Scott delivers personalized diagnostics, advanced therapies, support to help patients regain health and improve quality of life.
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
Genetics: a family history of IBD increases your risk
Immune response: the body's immune system attacks healthy gut tissue
Environmental factors: urban living and exposure to pollution or other triggers
Dietary influences: certain foods can worsen symptoms, though they don't cause IBD
Signs and Symptoms
Chronic diarrhea, often with blood
Abdominal pain or cramping
Unintended weight loss
Fatigue and general weakness
Fever during active flare-ups
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He reviews symptoms such as chronic diarrhea, abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, weight loss, fatigue, and extraintestinal signs. He also assesses your family history of IBD, previous flare patterns, medication use, and any prior GI evaluations. A focused abdominal exam checks for tenderness, distension, or masses.
Blood Tests
Laboratory studies may include a complete blood count (CBC) to detect anemia or elevated white cells, C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) to assess inflammation, and nutritional labs including vitamin D, B12, and albumin.
Stool Studies
Stool testing is done to rule out infection. This includes cultures, C. difficile testing, and ova and parasite exams. Fecal calprotectin or lactoferrin levels are measured to evaluate intestinal inflammation and help distinguish IBD from IBS.
Endoscopic Evaluation
Colonoscopy with Biopsy: Evaluates the colon and terminal ileum for ulcerations, inflammation, strictures, or pseudopolyps. Biopsies confirm histologic features of IBD.
Upper Endoscopy (EGD): May be performed if upper GI involvement is suspected, particularly in Crohn's disease.
Cross-Sectional Imaging
CT Enterography or MR Enterography: Provides detailed visualization of the small bowel to detect deep inflammation, fistulas, strictures, or abscesses not seen on endoscopy.
Capsule Endoscopy (if needed)
In cases where standard imaging is inconclusive, a swallowable capsule camera helps detect subtle or patchy small-bowel involvement, especially in suspected Crohn's disease.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).
1. Lifestyle and Diet Tips
Low-fiber or low-residue diet during flare-ups
Avoidance of dairy or high-fat triggers
Hydration with plenty of water
Stress reduction through relaxation techniques, walking, or counseling
2. Medications
5-ASA agents (e.g., mesalamine) for mild disease
Short-term corticosteroids for acute flare control
Immunomodulators to suppress abnormal immune activity
Biologics for moderate to severe IBD
Targeted small-molecule therapies for treatment-refractory cases
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Endoscopic dilation to relieve strictures
Laparoscopic resection of damaged intestinal segments
Enteral feeding tubes or IV nutrition support in severe 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 difference between IBD and IBS?
IBD causes real inflammation and injury to the gut lining, whereas IBS is a functional disorder that leads to discomfort without visible damage.
Can I manage IBD with diet alone?
While a tailored diet helps reduce symptoms, most people still require medication to control inflammation and maintain remission.
Is IBD in pets the same as in humans?
No. Though cats and dogs can develop inflammatory bowel conditions, their causes and treatments differ, so veterinary care is needed.
How long does it take to feel better?
Improvement varies: some patients notice relief within days, while biologic therapies may take weeks. Dr. Scott will monitor and adjust your plan for the best outcome.
Does IBD increase the risk of colon cancer?
Yes. Long-standing ulcerative colitis especially raises the risk. Regular colonoscopic surveillance is essential for early detection and prevention.
Related Blogs
Understanding the Difference Between Crohn's and Ulcerative Colitis
