Man in Beverly Hills seeking pain relief to protect long-term gut health

Crohn’s Disease & Ulcerative Colitis Diagnosis in Los Angeles

Find Out the Source of Your GI Symptoms and if Inflammatory Bowel Disease is the Problem

Request Appointment

What is Crohn’s Disease?

Crohn’s disease is a type of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) that causes chronic inflammation anywhere along the gastrointestinal tract, most commonly affecting the small intestine and the beginning of the colon. It can involve multiple layers of the bowel wall and may skip areas between patches of inflammation.

Common symptoms of Crohn’s disease include:
  • Ongoing abdominal pain or cramping
  • Chronic diarrhea or urgent bowel movements
  • Unintended weight loss
  • Fatigue and nutrient deficiencies
  • Joint pain or skin issues
Dr. Benjamin Basseri is regarded as one of the best Crohn’s disease doctors in Los Angeles, offering advanced diagnostic tools and targeted treatment options to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Man in Beverly Hills, CA with Crohn's disease, a bowel disease causing GI inflammation.
Woman in Los Angeles with ulcerative colitis, a bowel disease causing colon inflammation.

What is Ulcerative Colitis?

Ulcerative colitis is another form of IBD, but unlike Crohn’s, it only affects the colon (large intestine) and the innermost lining of the intestinal wall. The inflammation typically starts in the rectum and spreads upward in a continuous pattern.

Symptoms of ulcerative colitis often include:
  • Blood in the stool
  • Frequent, urgent bowel movements
  • Abdominal pain and cramping
  • Persistent fatigue
  • Weight loss and anemia
As one of the best ulcerative colitis specialists in Los Angeles, Dr. Basseri takes a compassionate and evidence-based approach to diagnosis and long-term management, helping patients regain control and minimize flare-ups.

What’s the Difference Between Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis?

While both are forms of IBD, they differ in important ways:

  • Crohn’s disease can affect any part of the GI tract from the mouth to the anus, and often occurs in patches and can penetrate deeper into the bowel wall.
  • Ulcerative colitis is limited to the colon and rectum, tends to affect continuous areas, and typically affects only the inner lining of the colon.

When You Should Consider Evaluation for Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Is it Ulcerative Colitis or Crohn’s Disease?

It’s important to consult a physician about your concerns, because IBD symptoms can mimic other GI conditions. If you’re searching for the best GI doctor for Crohn’s disease in Los Angeles, Dr. Basseri brings a clinically precise approach to accurately diagnose your condition.

You may need testing for Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis if you:
Experience persistent abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, or bloody stool
Have been diagnosed with IBS, but symptoms are worsening
Have a family history of IBD or autoimmune conditions
Experience unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or anemia
Notice extraintestinal symptoms like joint pain or skin rashes
Request Appointment

What to Expect During an IBD Diagnosis Appointment

A clear diagnosis from the best IBD specialist in Los Angeles is the first step toward managing chronic inflammation and protecting your long-term health.
1

Before

  • We'll review your symptoms, medical history, and any past tests
  • Bring a list of current medications and your symptom timeline
  • Discuss lifestyle, diet, and family history of autoimmune disease
2

During

  • Physical exam focusing on the abdomen and other systems
  • Blood tests to detect inflammation or anemia
  • Stool studies to rule out infection or blood
  • Colonoscopy and imaging (e.g., CT or MRI enterography) to assess bowel inflammation
3

After

  • Dr. Basseri will interpret your findings and provide a diagnosis
  • If Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis is confirmed, you’ll receive a tailored treatment strategy
  • Ongoing monitoring and care adjustments are included as part of your long-term plan

How to Treat Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis

IBD treatment is highly individualized and may evolve over time based on symptoms and response. Common approaches include:
  • Anti-inflammatory drugs such as mesalamine or corticosteroids`
  • Immune system suppressors like azathioprine or biologics
  • Dietary modification and nutritional supplementation
  • Surgery in severe or treatment-resistant cases (when necessary)
  • Regular colonoscopy to monitor disease progression

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQs About Crohn's Disease & Ulcerative Colitis

Is IBD the same as IBS?
Can IBD be cured?
Will I need ongoing monitoring?
Can diet help manage symptoms?
Is Dr. Basseri the best ulcerative colitis specialist in Los Angeles?

Where to Find the Best Crohn’s & Colitis Specialist in Los Angeles

Elite Digestive Health, led by Dr. Benjamin Basseri, provides world-class, accurate diagnosis and care for inflammatory bowel disease with compassion and precision.
Patients choose our convenient Beverly Hills office because we offer:
  • Access to one of the best ulcerative colitis specialists in Los Angeles
  • A concierge-style approach with detailed diagnostic workups
  • In-office colonoscopy and advanced imaging coordination
  • Personalized treatment plans and compassionate support
  • A convenient, state-of-the-art location in Beverly Hills
Whether you’ve just started experiencing symptoms or are seeking a second opinion, we’re here to help you feel better, faster. Ready to learn how we can solve the mystery of your bowel problems?
Schedule Consultation