Expert Care for Crohn Disease and Ulcerative Colitis
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a group of chronic conditions that cause ongoing inflammation of the digestive tract. The two main types are Crohn disease and ulcerative colitis. Unlike IBS, IBD causes real inflammation and damage to the bowel, and it needs ongoing medical care to control flare-ups and prevent complications.
The exact cause of IBD is not fully known, but it results from an overactive immune response in genetically susceptible people, often influenced by gut bacteria and environmental factors. IBD tends to follow a pattern of flare-ups and periods of remission.
Common symptoms include persistent diarrhea, abdominal pain and cramping, rectal bleeding, urgency, fatigue, and unintended weight loss. IBD can also cause problems outside the gut, such as joint pain, skin issues, and eye inflammation. Because ongoing inflammation can lead to serious complications, any persistent digestive symptoms, especially with bleeding or weight loss, should be evaluated promptly.
At Shaya Digestive & Liver Clinic, evaluation begins with a detailed discussion of symptoms, diet, medical history, medications, and lifestyle factors. Diagnostic evaluation may include:
Comprehensive Medical History
Understanding symptom patterns often provides valuable clues.
Blood Testing
Laboratory studies may help identify:
H. pylori Testing
Testing may be recommended when stomach-related symptoms are present.
SIBO Breath Testing
Used to evaluate bacterial overgrowth within the small intestine.
Colonoscopy
May be recommended depending on age, symptoms, family history, and risk factors.
Upper Endoscopy (EGD)
Can help evaluate reflux, gastritis, ulcers, and upper digestive tract disorders.
Dr. Saranya Addepally is a board-certified gastroenterologist with six years of clinical experience, treating a broad range of digestive and liver conditions. She is especially passionate about women’s GI health—areas where patients often feel overlooked or hesitant to seek care.
Her medical journey began in India, where she completed her training before moving to the United States to pursue advanced education in medicine and Gastroenterology at the University of Arkansas.
After several years in practice, she relocated to Houston to continue serving patients in the community. Following two years with a local group, she established her own practice, grounded in the principles and core values she believes are essential to delivering thoughtful, patient-centered care.
IBD causes real inflammation and damage to the bowel and includes Crohn disease and ulcerative colitis. IBS affects how the gut works but does not cause inflammation.
The two main types are Crohn disease, which can affect any part of the digestive tract, and ulcerative colitis, which affects the colon and rectum.
There is no cure yet, but modern treatments are very effective at controlling inflammation and keeping most people in long-term remission with few or no symptoms.
See a doctor for persistent diarrhea, rectal bleeding, unexplained weight loss, ongoing abdominal pain, or fatigue, especially if symptoms last more than a few weeks.
Diet does not cure IBD, but it plays an important supporting role. Certain foods can worsen symptoms, and good nutrition helps healing and overall health.
Yes. Colonoscopy is essential for diagnosing IBD, monitoring inflammation, checking healing, and screening for complications over time.
IBD treatment aims to control inflammation, relieve symptoms, and keep you in long-term remission. After confirming your diagnosis, your gastroenterologist builds a personalized plan that may include:
At Shaya Digestive & Liver Clinic, we provide:
There is no single “quick fix” for IBD, but most people achieve long, symptom-free remission. See a gastroenterologist promptly for ongoing diarrhea, rectal bleeding, weight loss, or severe abdominal pain. At Shaya Digestive & Liver Clinic we focus on long-term control. To help manage IBD:
Offering Fast Track GI appointments
Specialized Gastroenterology Appointments Within 3–5 Business Days
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