1.9K Reviews | 4.7 Star Rating | 20+ years of experience | 72k+ Patients Treated
Ulcerative colitis
At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Scott offers personalized, expert care for ulcerative colitis, a chronic inflammatory condition of the colon. Combining thorough diagnostics, individualized treatment plans-including lifestyle guidance, medications, biologics, and minimally invasive procedures-he helps patients achieve lasting, long-term relief.
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 ulcerative colitis
An overactive immune response attacking the colon lining
Environmental triggers such as stress, diet changes, or infections
Most diagnoses occur between ages 15 and 30
Local factors in Houston-like climate shifts and dietary patterns-may influence flare-ups
Signs and Symptoms
Frequent, urgent diarrhea often mixed with blood
Lower abdominal pain or cramps
Unintended weight loss and decreased appetite
Persistent fatigue or weakness
Fever during moderate to severe flare-ups
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses Ulcerative Colitis?
Dr. Scott takes time to understand your symptoms through a detailed diagnostic process:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He begins with a thorough review of your medical history and performs a physical exam to evaluate your symptoms.
Blood Tests
These help detect anemia or elevated markers of inflammation, which are common in ulcerative colitis.
Stool Tests
Stool samples are tested to rule out bacterial or parasitic infections that may mimic colitis symptoms.
Colonoscopy with Biopsy
This procedure allows Dr. Scott to view the colon and take small tissue samples to confirm ulcerative colitis.
Imaging Studies
CT or MRI scans may be used to assess the extent of inflammation and monitor complications.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for ulcerative colitis.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Changes
Eat soft meals with lean protein and cooked vegetables
Stay hydrated with plenty of water, especially during flares
Practice meditation or light exercise to help manage stress
Quit smoking to reduce symptom severity
2. Medications
5-ASA drugs (e.g., mesalamine) to reduce inflammation
Steroids for short-term relief during flare-ups
Immunosuppressants to calm an overactive immune response
Biologics for moderate to severe disease control
JAK inhibitors for patients unresponsive to other treatments
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Endoscopic dilation to open narrowed segments of the colon
Surgical options, including colectomy, for refractory cases
Advanced imaging (CT/MRI) to assess disease extent and guide treatment planning
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 triggers a flare-up?
Missing medication, infections, stress, or certain foods can cause a flare.
How long does a flare last?
It can last a few days or several weeks. The right care can shorten the flare.
Is ulcerative colitis the same as Crohn's?
No. Ulcerative colitis affects the large intestine only. Crohn's disease can affect any part of the digestive tract.
Can diet fix ulcerative colitis?
No. Dietary changes help manage symptoms, but medication is needed to treat the underlying inflammation.
What's the difference between 5-ASA and biologics?
5-ASA drugs like mesalamine are for mild to moderate cases. Biologics are stronger therapies reserved for moderate to severe disease or when other treatments fail.
How often do I need a colonoscopy?
Most patients need a surveillance colonoscopy every one to three years to monitor for inflammation-related damage and cancer risk.
Are there new treatments available?
Yes. Dr. Scott offers the latest FDA-approved therapies, including JAK inhibitors and advanced biologic agents.
Related Blogs
Feel Like You Always Have Food Stuck in Your Throat? You May Have Dysphagia
