Lymphocytic colitis diagnosis often begins with a visit to your regular physician. They will ask you about your symptoms and family medical history. You may be referred to a gastroenterologist, who is a doctor that specializes in issues of the digestive tract. Other common causes of diarrhea will be ruled out and a physical exam, including an abdominal exam, will be administered. Other tests will likely be run including blood tests to check for anemia or infection, tests for celiac disease, and tests on stool samples.

For some patients, a colonoscopy will be required to confirm the diagnosis. This test involves the insertion of a small camera into the rectum to examine the colon and intestinal tract. An intestinal biopsy may be performed during the colonoscopy, so a portion of the tissue of your intestine can be tested.

For treatment your doctor may prescribe medicines to help stop and prevent the episodes of chronic diarrhea. Most patients only require these medications over a short treatment cycle.