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Indeterminate Colitis

At GastroDoxs in Jersey Village, our dedicated gastroenterology team specializes in indeterminate colitis diagnosis and personalized treatment plans, offering comprehensive care and ongoing support to help patients manage symptoms and improve their quality of life here in the local community.

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Bharat Pothuri
Symptoms

What Is Indeterminate Colitis?

Indeterminate colitis is a form of inflammatory bowel disease that shares characteristics of both ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. It's diagnosed when colonoscopy and biopsy findings don't clearly point to one condition over the other. Sometimes called indeterminate Crohn's colitis or IC, it's classified under ICD-10 code K52.3.

Common Symptoms

People with indeterminate colitis often experience:

  • Frequent diarrhea, sometimes with blood or mucus
  • Cramping and abdominal pain
  • An urgent need to use the bathroom
  • Weight loss or decreased appetite
  • Fatigue and mild fever

Causes

The exact cause of indeterminate colitis isn't fully understood, but several factors may play a role:

  • Genetics - a family history of Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis
  • Immune system dysfunction - the body mistakenly attacks the intestinal lining
  • Environmental triggers - stress, certain foods, or infections
  • Associated conditions - for example, people with both indeterminate colitis and diabetes may need extra monitoring
Treatment

Treatment Options for Indeterminate Colitis in Jersey Village

Treatment includes medications, nutrition support, lifestyle changes, and surgery when needed:

  • Aminosalicylates: Lower inflammation in the colon and help maintain remission.
  • Steroids: Short-term control of moderate to severe flare-ups.
  • Biologics or immunomodulators: Target the immune system for long-term disease control.
  • Low-residue diet: Reduces bowel workload during active inflammation.
  • Vitamins and supplements: Correct deficiencies and support overall nutrition.
  • Stress-reduction techniques: Mindfulness, yoga, or breathing exercises to ease symptoms.
  • Gentle exercise and regular sleep: Promote general wellness and gut health.
  • Surgery (rare cases): Removal of diseased colon segments when medical therapy is insufficient.

Why Choose GastroDoxs for Infectious Colitis?

At GastroDoxs in Jersey Village, we combine rapid, on-site testing with expert diagnosis and customized treatment plans to tackle infectious colitis head-on. From same-day appointments and comprehensive stool and blood work to compassionate follow-up care, our team is dedicated to restoring your digestive health quickly and safely. Don't wait-book your appointment today and start your journey to relief.

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Patients Treated

We've successfully treated more than 1.5K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.

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Years of Experience

With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients

Bharat Pothuri

About the Author

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is indeterminate colitis diagnosed?

Diagnosis is made through a colonoscopy, biopsy, and review of your medical and family history.

Is indeterminate colitis the same as Crohn's colitis?

No. It shows features of both Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis but cannot be definitively classified as either.

What is the ICD-10 code used for indeterminate colitis?

The ICD-10 code is K52.3, which is used for medical records and insurance purposes.

Can diet alone control indeterminate colitis?

No. While dietary changes can help relieve symptoms, most patients also require medication to manage inflammation.

Does indeterminate colitis increase the risk of colon cancer?

Yes. Long-standing inflammation elevates colon cancer risk, so regular screening colonoscopies are important.

How often should I see my doctor if I have indeterminate colitis?

Follow-up is typically every 6-12 months when stable, and more frequently during active flare-ups.

Can children develop indeterminate colitis?

Yes. Pediatric patients need coordinated care from both gastroenterologists and pediatric specialists.

What if I also have diabetes?

Steroid therapy can raise blood sugar, so we monitor diabetes closely and adjust treatment as needed.

Are biologics safe for long-term use in indeterminate colitis?

Yes. Biologics are generally safe for long-term control but require monitoring for infections and other potential side effects.

When can I expect to feel better?

Steroids may relieve symptoms within days, but full remission with long-term therapies often takes several weeks.

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