Having inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) may be something to endure day in day out. Even such simple processes as belly pains, diarrhea, and fatigue can become hard to do. At Gastrodoxs, we are convinced that you should not be doing this by yourself. A gastroenterologist (GI doctor) can help to refer you through the diagnosis to long-term relief. Here, we will discuss how a GI specialist can help you with Crohn's and colitis, why it is important to be treated by an expert, and how individual care can look like, in particular, in case you live in Houston.
It is early care that will help in avoiding complications. Early diagnosis and treatment is recommended at the Mayo Clinic.
Thinking you need an expert? Basic care is offered by general doctors, but IBD is complicated. GI physician provides specialized, specialized treatment.
According to Dr. Bharat Pothuri, Gastrodoxs Houston:
"IBD isn't one-size-fits-all. We make use of sophisticated instruments to track inflammation and to modify treatment. That is to less flare and a superior life."
The treatment of IBD by GI physicians is as follows:
According to Dr. Pothuri, there are people who are good in medicine. Others need surgery. We have plans that suit the needs of each individual.
According to the CDC, coordinated care will help decrease hospitalization and enhance the quality of life.
According to Dr. Pothuri, it is lab results that we use to direct your treatment. Then we refine it, until you get your inflammation down to a point.
| Characteristic | General Practitioner | Gastroenterologist |
| Training | Primary care | Specialization in digestive disease specialist |
| Instrumentation | Simple examinations | Scopes, imaging, laboratory |
| Drug Alternatives | Common meds | Advanced IBD drugs |
| Diet Advice | General diet tips | Diet plans: Custom diet plans |
| Follow-up Care | Occasional visits | Routine, planned care |
| Support Team | Refers to others | Works with full care team |
Combined with other complications, IBD may be difficult to cope with. However, when you have the proper GI care, you will feel good and get control of your health. In Houston and Gastrodoxs, our group and Dr. Bharat Pothuri have specialized and individualized assistance. Begin your treatment now you need not tackle IBD by yourself.
Take the first step. Next time you are in Gastrodoxs, schedule your visit.
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.
The gastroenterologist identifies and treats Crohn disease and ulcerative colitis through the use of scopes, laboratory testing, and special treatments.
A gastroenterologist should be seen within a matter of few weeks when diarrhea, abdominal pains, or unexplained weight loss continue without any improvement.
Diet may be used to manage the symptoms but very rarely it is adequate by itself and most of the patients need medication to manage the disease well.
Regular medications are aminosalicylates (5-ASAs), corticosteroids during flare-ups, immunomodulators, and biologic medications that block certain immune pathways.
Colonoscopies are usually advised at an interval of 1-2 years, according to the type of disease, the period, the level of severity, and other cancer risk factors in an individual.
Yes. Gastrodoxs Houston provides gastroenterologists that are board-certified and have an expert knowledge in Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.
Surgery becomes an option in situations where drugs and other forms of treatment are unable to manage the disease or complications develop, it can be bowel resection or colectomy.
Absolutely. Through telehealth visits, you can talk about symptoms, modify treatments, and discuss test results without the need to be physically present, making them more convenient and continuing care.
Exercising regularly, engaging in stress management skills, getting enough sleep, and consuming an anti-inflammatory diet are also beneficial in controlling long-term IBD.
To find reliable sources, go to the overview of Crohn's Disease provided by the Mayo Clinic or to the fact sheet about Ulcerative Colitis provided by the NIH.
